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Interview with Sungchul
SHIMSungchul Shim, born and raised in the Korean province of Jeollanam-do, honed his culinary skills in his family’s kitchen, preparing meals for large gatherings. His latest project, Mari in Hell’s Kitchen, features a tasting menu inspired by Korean street food hand rolls.
- What’s your Eastern Zodiac Sign?
Gemini
- And your Western
Monkey
- Which one resonates more with you?
I resonate with the creativity, intelligence and wit of the Monkey sign.Monkeysare known to be lively, flexible, quick-witted and versatile.We are quietly confident yet humble, friendly and have an innovative spirit. I feel that all of these attributes resonate with me.
- Can you share about your ethnic and generational background?
Korean
- Superstition from your childhood that you still believe in today.
If you see a pig in your dreams you receive an unexpected windfall of money - and after having such a dream I opened Don Don, our dry age pork restaurant.
- What pivotal experiences guided you toward your current path? Was there a specific moment or individual that influenced you?
My mother has always taught me to not chase money but rather gain experiences. Hence I pursued working at Per Se which has deeply influenced the way I cook and see food.
- What dish from your childhood, lovingly prepared at home, holds a special place in your heart?
My mom’s duck stew which tastes like home for me, this dish is famous of my home town in Kwangju. I grew up in the middle of the most famous street that just sold this specialized dish.
- It’s often said that our parents’ express emotions through food. What’s your go-to meal when you want to convey your feelings?
Kalbi Jjim or stew which is a celebratory dish that takes a lot of care and attention.
- As you came of legal drinking age, what was your inaugural drink? And what’s your beverage of choice now?
My father’s house made wild plum wine was my inaugural drink. Small batch Makuli is currently my beverage of choice.
- Who serves as your guiding light? Why?
My wife has always been wonderfully supportive and has been the one I turn to for all the major decisions I have made in my life.
- Who are your ultimate dream collaborators?
Thomas Keller
- Which restaurant holds the title of your favorite at the moment?
noreetuh, the food and hospitality are always the best.