A Korean immigrant raised in Apple Valley, Minnesota, Ann draws deep inspiration from her roots and early memories of cooking with her mother and grandmother, learning to make traditional Korean staples like doenjang, gochujang, and kimchi.

In 2010, she opened Pizzeria Lola, a wood-fired pizzeria known for its bold flavors, creative toppings, and heartfelt hospitality. She followed it with Hello Pizza, a casual slice shop inspired by her college days in New York City, where a slice was a daily ritual.

Her third restaurant, Young Joni, opened in 2016 and quickly became a Minneapolis favorite, celebrated for its eclectic wood-fired dishes and globally inspired pizzas. The restaurant blends warmth, innovation, and a strong sense of place.

In 2021, she launched Sooki & Mimi, a concept rooted in respect for Latin American culinary traditions, especially the art of nixtamalization. The menu reflects a thoughtful fusion of Korean and Mexican influences, brought together through handmade tortillas and seasonal produce.

Beyond her own restaurants, Ann also leads the culinary direction at Kyndred Hearth, the signature restaurant at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, a collaboration with the Minnesota Vikings. Her cooking reflects a blend of cultures, stories, and a deep appreciation for ingredients, technique, and craft — always rooted in authenticity and community.