Benu

About Benu

As a newcomer wandering the foodscape of San Francisco, stepping into Benu felt like discovering a hidden temple where Asian culinary traditions are reimagined with the kind of precision and artistry that borders on the sublime. This SoMa sanctuary isn't just another fine dining establishment—it's chef Corey Lee's love letter to his Korean and Cantonese heritage, filtered through the lens of California's obsession with perfection and innovation. Those vegetable-stuffed mussels arrive like little jewel boxes, each one a perfect marriage of ocean and earth, while the barbecued quail represents everything transcendent about Lee's approach to Asian-fusion cuisine. What sets Benu apart isn't just the Michelin stars or the faultless technique—it's the way each dish tells a story that spans continents and generations, creating tasting sequences that feel both deeply personal and universally compelling. Every course unfolds with the kind of serene excellence that makes you understand why this restaurant has become a pilgrimage destination for food lovers who seek not just a meal, but a transformative experience.

Signature Dishes

What Makes It Special