Ali Khan grew up in the Midwest as the son of South Asian immigrants, an upbringing that gave him an early and profound appreciation for diverse cuisines. He trained in theatrical arts at Carnegie Mellon University before earning his Bachelor of Arts in Theater Studies from the University of Southern California. 

Khan began his food media career as a writer and blogger, becoming Senior Editor of BlackBook Magazine‘s Los Angeles dining guide. He also contributed to Urban Daddy, LA TACO, and other digital platforms. Khan later launched the food blogs Sandwich Spotting Los Angeles and Bang for your Burger Buck to highlight affordable eats. Additionally, he worked behind the scenes in television development and served as a producer for various food programs.  

His TV debut came in 2015 when he became the host of the Cooking Channel travel series Cheap Eats. The show ran for five seasons and also aired internationally on Food Network. Ali Khan has also hosted Spring Baking Championship on Food Network, in addition to appearing on Chopped, Best Thing I Ever Ate, and the PBS series Taco Mafia.