"Construction has begun on a smaller, casual counter-service concept from Ji Hye Kim, planned for a spring opening, aimed at an all-vegetarian menu that leans into her Korean identity while incorporating Chinese, Japanese, and Indian influences and sourcing ingredients from Michigan farmers and producers. The menu will center on customizable bowls (choice of jasmine rice, greens, or fries) with protein options like kidney beans in soy sauce and ghee or chickpeas in gochujang marinara; veggie choices include vegan kimchi plus a variety of sauces and garnishes. Expect soups that combine cultures—example: a spiced moong daal soup made of slow-cooked mung beans and winter squash—and a daily kimbap offering such as a panko-fried paneer sandwich. Drinks will include freshly squeezed juices, housemade sodas, small-batch kombucha, a mocktail program, and beer, wine, and makgeolli; Kim will also sell her gochujang and soy sauces for home use. The finished space will feature an open kitchen and an aesthetic that blends Korean heritage with modernity. As Kim explains her intention for the new project, “I think [the new spot] is similar, but I think it’s more that I was really focused on being able to be more equitable.”" - Serena Maria Daniels