Christopher S.
Yelp
In the gastronomic panorama of Los Angeles, where upscale Korean culinary representation has been surprisingly muted considering its substantial Korean populace, Chef Debbie Lee's "Joseon" emerges as a beacon of modern Korean fine dining, a tour de force in an arena where LA has, until now, played second fiddle to the culinary juggernaut of New York City.
"Joseon" is a contemporary ode to the regal fare of Korea's Joseon Dynasty, an era when culinary artistry was as revered as the royal bloodline itself. Chef Debbie, in a stroke of brilliance, orchestrates an experience that intertwines history with haute cuisine. The menu, a tantalizing array of 5 and 7 course tasting odysseys, many with alternate "A and B" routes, promises a bespoke journey for every palate.
Among the culinary pageant, one finds dishes like the Bossam, a masterclass in flavor, the Shila Oysters Rockefeller, and a Bone Marrow dish that could easily be crowned the monarch of the meal. My personal sojourn through the 7-course menu was nothing short of a royal procession: from the humble beginnings of Juk (Porridge) to the crescendo of Wagyu Oxtail stew, each dish was a narrative in itself. The Beef Tartare, accompanied by a seaweed cracker, was a symphony of umami that set the taste buds alight with anticipation.
And just when one thinks the crescendo has peaked, the Deconstructed Asian Napoleon dessert arrives, not so much a dish as an explosive finale in this culinary opera.
Yet, the experience at "Joseon" transcends mere food. The optional drink pairings are an educational voyage in themselves, dismantling the stereotype that Korean cuisine is best accompanied solely by beer or Soju. From cocktails to wine, plum liquor, and makgeolli, each beverage is a chapter that complements the unfolding story of the meal.
"Joseon" is not merely a destination for aficionados of Korean cuisine; it is a revelation for the uninitiated, an elegant introduction to the complexities and delights of Korean fare. And with the promise of a new bar menu, including a burger that dares to challenge the gastronomic elite, and a possible vegan ensemble in the wings, "Joseon" is poised to continue its culinary conquest.
As a connoisseur of K-dramas and now of Chef Debbie's culinary realm, I may never don the robes of a Joseon prince, but dining at "Joseon" is a royal decree I shall gladly obey.