Tom Liu is a creator of thoughts. The Korean chef and restaurateur has used his immense creativity to bring the authentic flavors of his country to the city. He is the founder of the PIE team, the representative of the restaurants NABI and WULI, and the curator of Genesis Restaurant. He likes to think deeply and takes pleasure in turning those ideas into reality. This is the driving force behind his cooking, and he works to create spaces and brands that resonate.
Provided by Tom Liu
Tom Ryu is the founder of the PIE team, president of restaurants NABI and WULI, and curator of Genesis Restaurant.
Could you introduce the area where you live?
I live on Zhenning Road. It has been about three years since I moved here, and I am personally very satisfied with my living environment.
What’s the best thing about living in this neighborhood?
The first criterion when choosing a house is whether there is a tennis court. The greatest satisfaction is being able to enjoy your favorite sport while minimizing commuting time! Plus, it's less than a 10-minute walk to the venue. When creating a brand, my priority is to create it in a place that I often go to, so I prefer locations that are easy to access. Above all, the biggest advantage of our area is that there are many pedestrian streets. You can enjoy walking in any season, spring, summer, autumn, or winter, but walking your dog is especially great.
What is the must-see attraction here?
There are many historical ruins, unique shops, and many beautiful roads. In particular, Wuyi Road, where the restaurant is located, is full of trees and has a rich history, while nearby Yuyuan Road is full of small shops. The neighborhood atmosphere gives me a lot of inspiration.
Powered by Luneurs
Ryu likes to visit Luneurs on Huashan Road.
Everyone has different tastes, but everyone wants a nice cafe. Where is your favorite cafe near your home?
I really love coffee. Drink at least 3-4 cups a day. I enjoy many different types of coffee, but I mainly drink iced Americano, which has a subtle acidity and fruity aroma. There are two cafes that I can walk to from my house.This is what I think on a sunny morning Luneurs (888 Huashan Rd) Located on Huashan Road. A walk with your dog and an iced Americano and ice cream make for a wonderful day.
Sometimes I replace coffee with a flat white for my first meal of the day. Gregorius (991 Yuyuan Rd). These two cafes are spots that I personally value very much!
Canary offer
The cannery on Yuyuan Road provides the perfect holiday for Ryu.
Where should someone eat around here?
I'm pretty strict when it comes to managing my meals during work days. So, on my days off, I always try to eat what I like.What I always think about on sunny Sundays is The Cannery (1/F, Bldg1, No. 1107 Yuyuan Rd). Fresh seafood, perfectly grilled steaks, delicious wine, beer, and cocktails all sit at one of our outdoor tables for a perfect day. Personally, my must-order dish is the duck liver mousse, which I love.
From high fashion to emerging designers, flowers to fresh produce, where do you shop in your neighborhood?
Actually, I don't shop much. In fact, I'm very picky when it comes to finding what I really like. Therefore, if you find something you like, you may end up buying more than one of the same item. I like fashion that doesn't follow trends! In fact, all the clothes in my wardrobe are very similar because I like to wear classic clothes that express who I am. However, they differ in very small ways. Full Monty and Vans Authentic for both formal and casual wear, lululemon for everyday wear, and NIKE for sportswear. 99% of my fashion is determined by these 4 brands!
Provided by Wine Universe
Located on Yuyuan Road, Wine Universe attracts Liu with its variety and quality of wine by the glass.
Do you have any local recommendations for a night out or drinks after work?
I often drink here after work. WULI's (1/F, Bldg 1, WYSH, 168 Wuyi Rd) Go to the bar before heading home! But on days when I want to go out and drink alone, Wine Universe (769-1 Yuyuan Rd). The variety and quality of wine that can be enjoyed by the glass is also a big attraction!
WULI's bar section is open to the public, and the dining section is expected to open in April.
Have you discovered anything new in your neighborhood recently?
I discovered a very delicious local Chinese restaurant Laowujia Chuancho (120 Zhaohua Rd) It's located behind the newly opened restaurant! This is a very old shop and is already famous among local friends! It's quite spicy, but all the dishes are delicious and I especially love it. Mapo Tofu!
