Our Story

The Concept

Nuri, meaning “whole world” in Korean, embodies our commitment to embracing diversity and sharing the beauty of cultural exchange. Our menu is thoughtfully curated by a Michelin-recognized chef to honor the rich traditions of Asia, the soulful essence of New Orleans, and the comforting warmth of Southern traditions. We source the finest quality ingredients, ensuring that each dish is crafted with passion and precision.

Step into Nuri, where cultural boundaries dissolve, and food becomes a universal language. We believe that food is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of life. Explore the world in every bite, and discover the harmony that brings flavors, traditions, and people together.

Culinary Director, Chef Minji Kim

ABOUT CHEF MINJI KIM

Minji Kim, former owner of the acclaimed Min’s Kitchen in Seoul, brought her culinary expertise to Dallas in 2020. A Michelin Plate recipient from 2017 to 2019, she now serves as the Culinary Director at Nuri Steakhouse and JOA Grill, crafting exquisite dining experiences. With a background in Korean cuisine Chef Minji’s rich heritage and passion continue to enhance Dallas’s dining scene.

Executive Chef, Mario Hernandez

ABOUT CHEF MARIO HERNANDEZ

Chef Mario Hernandez, a Chicago native, draws inspiration from his grandmother’s traditional recipes and vibrant cultural heritage. His culinary journey spans prestigious kitchens across the U.S., including Double Eagle Steakhouse and Gordon Ramsay North America. Chef Mario’s innovative style blends international cuisines with local flavors, crafting visually stunning and delicious dishes. A proponent of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainability, he shares his passion through cooking demonstrations and workshops. His dynamic personality and dedication make him a beloved figure in the culinary world.

Master Sommelier, Barb Werley

ABOUT BARB WERLEY, MS

Barb Werley is one of only 14 Master Sommeliers in Texas and among 34 female Master Sommeliers globally. The first Culinary Institute of America graduate to earn this title, she boasts extensive experience at prestigious venues like Caesars Palace, The Greenbrier, and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, where she managed a Grand Award-winning wine program. Named “Best Sommelier” in Dallas by D Magazine and CultureMap, Barb also taught at UNLV. Passionate about travel, her recent adventures include Nepal and Africa, where she supports the Grand Circle Foundation, aiding communities in her travel destinations.

DESIGN

Walls are wrapped in black cork and brass panels, loosely mimicking circuit boards, while providing both premium materials and functional acoustics. Stone floors, custom milled oval bar dies, and a large, curved aperture facing the dining room all create a soft, flowing architecture referencing Art Deco form. A glowing ceiling made of custom-extruded metalized aluminum curves create reflection and sparkle while adding a dimension of circuitry and cyber-punk glam. A giant, oversized, out-of-scale round polished chrome light fixture highlights the entire bar in a warped, dimensionally-bending representation of reality, and was inspired by the darker side of cyber-arts. Milled custom diffuser covers highlight heat exhaust and cooling needed for massive computing operations.

CERAMICS

At Nuri, we cherish the history embedded in our unique collection of bowls, over a century old, believed to have graced the homes of the affluent during Korea’s Japanese colonial period. These artifacts remind us of a challenging era when, starting in 1910, Japan’s colonial rule sought to erase Korean identity and autonomy. The oppressive governance stripped Koreans of rights, lands, and economic status, imposing harsh policies and controls. Our bowls symbolize resilience and the indomitable spirit of a nation that has endured and flourished against the odds, honoring a rich cultural heritage that survived adversity.