Chef Losa Salvieus Yi, an Asian female chef in the heavily male-dominated culinary industry in the U.S., has defied the odds by becoming the executive chef at Genesis House Restaurant. Her journey began in Korea, where she first discovered her love for cooking at a young age. This passion led her to pursue culinary education at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park (CIA) in New York City.
After graduating from CIA, Yi honed her skills at renowned restaurants such as Gotham Bar & Grill, Daniel, and Aquavit. Her culinary journey took her across the pond to London, where she worked at the historic five-star hotel, The Savoy. Yi then made her mark in Las Vegas, joining the culinary team at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino under the mentorship of award-winning chef Joel Robuchon. This experience shaped her cuisine style and work ethic, blending French and Asian flavors and techniques.
Following her successful stint in Las Vegas, Yi returned to Korea after the COVID-19 pandemic to reconnect with her roots and immerse herself in the culture and cuisine of Seoul. This journey allowed her to tap into her Korean heritage and reinterpret centuries-old dishes for the modern diner. Yi’s strong commitment to showcasing Korean cuisine stemmed from her childhood experiences in Michigan, where her family-owned Asian market exposed her to traditional Korean ingredients.
Yi’s culinary creations at Genesis House reflect her unique blend of traditional Korean flavors and contemporary elements. One of her standout dishes, Yukhoe, pays homage to Korean culinary history with a modern twist. Using premium Wagyu beef, Asian pear, pickled vegetables, and other seasonings, Yi reinvents this traditional dish for the modern palate. Her menu at Genesis House boasts a diverse range of dishes, from traditional snacks and small plates to main courses and desserts.
Chef Joel Robuchon’s influence on Yi’s culinary journey is profound, inspiring her to focus on details and cook with her heart. Yi’s dedication to her craft is evident in her menu offerings at Genesis House, reflecting the comforting dishes from her South Korean upbringing. The seven-course tasting menu at the restaurant provides diners with an opportunity to savor a variety of Yi’s culinary creations, paired with optional beverages.
Chef Losa Yi’s rise to prominence as an executive chef is a testament to her perseverance, passion for cooking, and commitment to showcasing Korean cuisine on the global stage. Through her innovative creations and dedication to her craft, Yi continues to break barriers and inspire aspiring chefs to follow their culinary dreams.