Some stories are so compelling they deserve to be immortalized on screen, and the tale of Kim Bomin—or Emily, as she’s known in the culinary world—is one of them. Imagine the Korean version of The Bear, but with less yelling and more baking. It’s a narrative woven from passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

A Sweet Beginning

Back in the throes of the COVID lockdown, I stumbled upon a tiny doughnut shop just blocks from my apartment. It was helmed by Kim Bomin, whose plans to study abroad in the U.S. were thwarted by COVID travel restrictions. What emerged from her unexpected pause in her studies was nothing short of extraordinary.

Her doughnuts were transformative. I’m not exaggerating when I say her Boston cream doughnut brought me to tears. This wasn’t just a doughnut; it was an experience—rich, creamy, and crafted with the kind of care that makes you believe in magic.

A Pivot to Brilliance

As the years passed, Emily expanded her doughnut empire, opening a flagship store and even securing a spot in Lotte Young Plaza. But rising ingredient costs and economic pressures nudged her toward her ultimate dream: opening her own brunch restaurant, similar to what she saw in her trip to New York.

Enter Emily, a brunch restaurant that bears her name and embodies her vision. Every inch of the place—from its location near Ulsan Culture Park to its meticulously curated design—is a reflection of her dedication. She chose the spot not just for its charm but because it’s steeped in her own history. She grew up around that area and wanted to make something memorable there. The park’s cosmopolitan vibe was the perfect backdrop for her culinary masterpiece.

A Masterclass in Detail

Emily doesn’t do anything halfway. She showed me her digital treasure trove of research: mood boards, color palettes, menu sketches. This wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a work of art. Unlike other restaurants that mimic Seoul’s trends or fall back on generic offerings, Emily’s menu is a revelation.

Take the Hummus Grain Bowl, for instance. You’d be hard-pressed to find anything like it elsewhere in the city. Or the signature “929 French Toast”—a dish so perfectly balanced it’s practically a symphony on a plate. And let’s not forget the creamy vodka pasta that has quickly become a dinner favorite. Every bite tells a story of innovation and craftsmanship.

A Place for Everyone

Emily’s restaurant evolves with the clock. In the morning, it’s a serene haven bathed in sunlight, perfect for a quiet coffee and a granola bowl. By lunch, it’s buzzing with the MZ generation snapping selfies and sharing plates on Instagram. Come evening, it transforms again, welcoming families looking for an alternative to the usual vomit-inducing sweet potato and corn pizzas.

What truly sets Emily apart is her commitment to growth. Seasonal menu items keep things fresh, ensuring there’s always a reason to return. And the atmosphere? It’s bright and timeless—a place where memories are made and shared.

A Legacy in the Making

Emily isn’t just building a restaurant; she’s crafting a legacy. Her vision is clear: to create a space that endures, one that offers something for everyone without succumbing to fleeting trends. And if her journey from doughnut prodigy to brunch mogul is any indication, she’s well on her way.

So, the next time you’re in Ulsan, do yourself a favor and visit Emily. Order the French toast. Try the French Baguette Sandwich. Stay for the vibe. And remember that you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re part of a story, one that’s still being written.

Location and Hours

Address: 울산 남구 왕생로 144 1층 (Behind the Ulsan Culture Park/ Ulsan Culture and Art Center, Next to the Post Office)
Mon ~Thurs, Sun: 07:00 ~ 19:00 (a cafe that opens at 7am!!?? Amazing!!)
Fri, Sat: 07:00 ~ 21:00
Instagram: Emily