Chef Debbie Lee has spent nearly three decades in professional kitchens, but it wasn’t until 2010 that she found her voice. With the launch of her Ahn-Joo food truck, Lee became known as the queen of modern Korean gastropub fare, bringing Korean flavors to the streets of LA in a way that felt both authentic and entirely new.

Her unique culinary perspective comes from living between two worlds: raised with Northern Korean traditions and Southern American soul food, Lee cooks food that bridges cultures rather than choosing sides. She’s appeared on Food Network Star, Chopped, and most recently, Morimoto’s Sushi Master, but her real mission has always been simpler—to share her story on a plate and make Korean cuisine feel welcoming to everyone.

With Yi Cha, Lee finally has the space to fully realize that vision: a modern Korean pub where tradition meets innovation, and where anyone can pull up a seat and experience Korean food culture the way it's meant to be enjoyed—with friends, family, and plenty of rounds to go.