K-Food Taste and Talk: Discovering Korean Traditions with Chef Danny Lee

Join us at the Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. (KCCDC) for a special culinary event celebrating Hansik, one of Korea's four traditional holidays, with renowned Chef Danny Lee of popular DC-based restaurants Mandu, Anju, and CHIKO!

This event will offer a unique opportunity to dig deeper into Korea’s rich culinary heritage and meet a chef and entrepreneur keeping those traditions alive. Explore the evolution of Korean cuisine and how it is enjoyed, perceptions of Korean food in the United States, and the ongoing globalization of Korean food, among other topics. Chef Lee will share his own Korean food journey through a talk, cooking demonstration of japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and a tasting of other K-Food classics.

Highlights:

Talk on Korean Cuisine and Culture: Chef Lee will share fascinating stories and expert knowledge about the history and development of Korean food, including its changing role in both traditional and modern dining.

Exploring Korean Food in the United States and Beyond: Dive into a discussion on how Korean food is perceived in the United States and across the globe. Explore the rise of K-food trends and the factors contributing to the globalization of Korean cuisine.

Cooking Demonstration: After the lecture, Chef Lee will guide guests through a live cooking demonstration showcasing the preparation of japchae (stir-fried glass noodles). Watch as Chef Lee crafts this classic dish using fresh ingredients, and learn tips and techniques to try at home!

Tasting Session: Conclude with a delicious tasting session highlighting japchae, to experience how the balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors create an unforgettable dish.

For complete details and updates,.

Inquiries: Contact us at [email protected]

Please Note: registration opens April 8 at 10:00 a.m. EDT (strict limit of 30 participants). As space is very limited; please register only if you are certain you can attend. Thank you!

About Chef Danny Lee

Chef Danny Lee, born and raised in Washington, D.C., is a renowned culinary figure known for his innovative take on Korean cuisine. After transitioning from genetic research to the restaurant industry, Danny, alongside his mother Yesoon, opened Mandu in 2006, DC’s first full-service Korean restaurant. He later co-founded The Fried Rice Collective with Chef Scott Drewno, opening the highly acclaimed CHIKO in 2017, which earned a James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant. Danny's restaurant group has since expanded with locations in DC, Virginia, Maryland, and California.

In 2019, Lee launched Anju, a vibrant eatery celebrating both traditional and modern Korean flavors, which was named the No. 1 restaurant in the region by Washingtonian Magazine. Danny’s culinary excellence has earned him multiple James Beard Award nominations and recognition as Restaurateur of the Year at the 2022 RAMMY Awards. Beyond his culinary career, Danny is also dedicated to anti-racism initiatives and fundraising for the non-profit EmbraceRace as their Culinary Ambassador.

Host or Publisher Korean Cultural Center DC