A restaurant run by Lee Ji-yeon, a popular singer in the 1980s who left behind hit songs such as ‘Please Stop the Wind,’ was introduced in the New York Times.
On the 21st (local time), NYT selected the 25 best restaurants in Atlanta, USA. One of these is ‘Heirloom Market BBQ’, a fusion Korean restaurant co-run by Jiyeon Lee.
NYT said about Jiyeon Lee’s restaurant, “You have to drive a bit from the city center, but the best barbecue that combines the flavors of Korea and the American South awaits you.” Jiyeon Lee, a former K-pop star, and Chef Cody Taylor (from Tennessee) add red pepper paste to the ribs. “I put it on, mix it with kimchi and coleslaw, and add soybean paste to the brisket that has been smoked for 12 hours,” he explained.
He continued, “They make five different sauces every day, and the sweet and spicy sauce is especially great when paired with Korean-style fried chicken.” He also praised them, adding, “You can’t leave until you try the banana pudding topped with well-baked meringue.”
NYT reported, “We were not provided with free food, but all meals were paid for and the restaurant was selected.”
NYT introduced Chef Taylor as Jiyeon Lee’s husband in the article. However, Lee Ji-yeon explained on Instagram, “I broke up with Cody in 2022, and we are currently business partners and good friends.”
Kim Ye-seul, Donga.com reporter seul56@donga.com