A typical Korean meal includes many side dishes called 반찬 banchan.

안녕하세요! 


Hi I'm Chad! To put it simply, I love Korean food. I have always been fascinated by the complexity and depth of flavors in Korean cuisine. The use of fermented ingredients, bold spices, and a wide array of vegetables and meats creates a unique experience for the palate. 


One of my favorite dishes in Korean cuisine is bibimbap. The combination of rice, vegetables, and a perfectly cooked fried egg on top is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. The spicy gochujang sauce ties all of the flavors together and adds an extra kick. I love bibimbap because it is the ultimate comfort food. It is a dish that allows me to be creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. The combination of rice, vegetables, meat, and spicy sauce makes bibimbap a satisfying and filling meal.


Korean barbecue is also a must-try for anyone who loves meat. The tabletop grilling experience, accompanied by an array of banchan (side dishes), creates a communal and interactive dining experience. The marinade used on the meats, usually a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, creates a perfect balance of sweet and salty.


Overall, Korean cuisine has a special place in my heart because of the creativity and boldness of flavors. I am constantly inspired by the techniques and ingredients used in Korean cooking and hope to continue incorporating them into my own dishes.





My philosophy is try everything once and if you're someone who wants to experience a culture, food is where you should start. My first inspiration into this idea came from Anthony Bourdain, not necessarily because of his cooking but because of his willingness to explore uncharted areas and destinations unknown. 



This street food is called 호떡 hoeddeok which usually has cinnamon and peanut filling. 

Top of Namsan Tower in South Korea.

Having Lived in Korea for the better part of a decade I fell in love with the culture, specifically their food. I studied abroad there twice, worked there for two years in Jindo, and spent long extended vacations there for months at a time.

Recently I moved back to Michigan, where I was born and raised, and felt connected to the Traverse City community. However, with Korean food lacking and an absolute craving for it, I thought to bring what I've learned and know about Korean cuisine to the community.

Currently I'm the owner and operator of the Korean food trailer Heart n Seoul in Traverse City. Please join me in making Traverse City a more inclusive area for diversity of food. 

After a successful 2023 year of opening, I'm ready and more confident to try different recipes. I spent the winter in Korea honing in on my cooking skills and am excited to hear feedback from the community. I had the pleasure to be showcased in the local news and I hope more of the community will come out and try my food and chat with me. Thanks to you all in helping my dreams come true!

Showcasing my bibimbap at Earthen Ales