Edward Lee: Bridging Cultures Through Food, Bourbon & Korean Heritage
Renowned chef Edward Lee is best known for blending Korean flavors with Southern soul—and now he’s bringing that unique perspective to Netflix’s Korean cooking competition Culinary Class Wars. Despite previously swearing off culinary contests, Lee joined the show to reconnect with his Korean roots and immerse himself in Seoul’s vibrant food culture.
Lee is no stranger to the spotlight—he’s a nine-time James Beard Award nominee and the chef behind acclaimed restaurants like 610 Magnolia and Succotash. He’s also a thoughtful author, with books like Smoke & Pickles, Buttermilk Graffiti, and Bourbon Land that explore the stories behind food, community, and American culture.
In a recent interview, Lee talked about discovering tangerine vinegar in Korea, his bourbon research journey, and why grandma’s cooking is where true food culture lives. “Food can bring cultures together,” he says. “Every culture has comfort food and humble traditions.”
Interview by Amy Harris for FWT Magazine. Published November 5, 2024.
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