SŌHN is a Korean-inspired all-day café where every detail reflects the warmth, depth, and legacy of Korean hospitality. From morning toast and coffee to late-afternoon makgeolli and banchan — SŌHN is a multi-faceted space that celebrates 손맛 (sohn-mat): the indescribable “taste of hand” that comes from heartfelt cooking. This is a place made possible by many hands — artists, bakers, baristas, fermenters, and friends — all contributing to a shared table.
the hands behind sŌHN
deuki hong
chef + owner
Deuki Hong is a Korean American chef, author, and restaurateur driven by a deep respect for heritage and a passion for building community through food. At SŌHN, his latest concept in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood, Deuki combines his fine-dining pedigree with casual comfort to create an all-day café rooted in Korean flavors and the power of collaboration.
A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Deuki trained at acclaimed restaurants including Momofuku and Jean-Georges before becoming the Executive Chef at Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong in NYC. He is also the co-author of the bestselling cookbook Koreatown, which helped shift the conversation around Korean American cuisine nationwide.
At SŌHN, which means “hand” in Korean, Deuki channels his belief that nothing meaningful is built alone. The café celebrates the unseen labor, artistry, and tradition passed down through many hands—be it in a bowl of rice, a cup of coffee, or a handmade ceramic on the shelf.
janet lee
managing partner
Janet Lee is the Managing Partner of SŌHN, where she brings a multidisciplinary background in branding, creative direction, and community-building to every facet of the café’s experience. With roots in both Seoul and San Francisco, Janet leads with intention—shaping SŌHN not just as a place to eat or drink, but as a gathering space for culture, craft, and connection.
Before joining SŌHN, Janet worked at the intersection of food, design, and storytelling, helping shape narratives for mission-driven brands and hospitality concepts. Her work is grounded in the belief that good things take time—and that the most meaningful projects are always built with others.
At SŌHN, Janet oversees brand strategy, partnerships, and guest experience, championing the values of collaboration, locality, and handmade care that define the space.