Chef Corey Lee, who used to be the head chef of French Laundry by Thomas Keller, opened his first restaurant, Benu in August,2010. Benu received 3 Michelin stars.
To be honest, on this trip, I wasn’t planning to visit Benu because on the previous week, I just visited French Laundry in Napa Valley. I thought visiting two 3 Michelin-starred restaurants within a week was too excessive. Nevertheless, with a very strong recommendation by Alice, CEO of Red Tea Blossom Company, she helped me get a table in such a short notice.
Every dish in the tasting menu is a reflection of what Corey Lee’s life has been. If someone asks what cuisine that Benu serves, I would say “American.” Born in Korea, moved to the States in age of 5, he has created American food where all different cuisines- Korean, French, Japanese, French, Chinese. Mexican and many more- coexist. Their difference does not collide each other, rather they bring synergy and harmony together.
the kitchen from the outside
I am really glad that I’ve tried Benu in my San Francisco’s trip.
The joyful experience of Benu was even more amplified when they served me with the exclusive puerh, vintage 1985 from Red Blossom Tea Company. I could not have digested without this cup of vintage puerh. As a passionate tea lover, I must say this tea and dish pairing was very satisfying.
- Location : 22 Hawthorne Street San Francisco CA 94105
- Tel : +1.415.685.4860
- Price : The tasting menu is currently $248 per person with an additional 20% charge.
- Hours : Tuesday – Saturday
- 6:00pm to 9:00pm
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