Culinary Monster
HASUNG LEE • Oyatte
WORK • Tuesday Routine
HASUNG LEE • head chef & owner • Oyatte
Neighborhood you work in: Murray Hill
Neighborhood you live in: Woodside, Queens
It’s Tuesday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
The scene is a mix of intense preparation and creative energy. I’m currently fully immersed in the pre-opening phase of my new restaurant, Oyatte [opening to the public today! –ed]. Mornings are usually split between administrative tasks and oversight, while afternoons are dedicated to intensive R&D in the kitchen. It’s a rewarding grind as we build everything from the ground up.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Today is particularly visual — we’re doing a full photo shoot of every piece of dishware we’ve curated for the restaurant. My daily agenda involves ordering new equipment, meeting with vendors, checking on construction progress, and refining the final details of the Oyatte experience.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
This weekend, I’m planning the first official staff dinner for my team. We’re heading to Moono on 32nd St. I honestly believe their food is more delicious than some of the top spots in Korea. Afterward, I’m going to Lysée with my wife for dessert. I’m keeping a close eye on their new project, Journey at Lysée, and I’m excited to see their next move.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
I recently purchased Cook the Mountain by the three-star Italian chef Norbert Niederkofler. His narrative and philosophy on sustainable cooking are fascinating and have been a great source of inspiration lately.
What NYC store or service do you always recommend?
Kitchen Arts & Letters. It’s a legendary bookstore for culinary professionals. I’ve been going there since I first moved to New York about 15 years ago.
Where are you donating your time or money?
UNICEF. Living in a place like New York, it’s heartbreaking to think about children in other parts of the world who are suffering from hunger. It’s a cause I care deeply about.