Nineteen years ago, the Lee family opened Teriyaki Plus in Bothell. The small fast-casual restaurant sat next to a 7-Eleven and built a loyal following over the years for its excellent take on the classic teriyaki dishes. But in February 2020, Teriyaki Plus suddenly closed, catching longtime customers by surprise. The closure also blindsided the two elder Lees and their three daughters, leaving them without the jobs, space, and community around which their lives centered.
In January 2021, the Lees opened their new restaurant, Tá Jóia, just across the street, bringing back old favorites in a modern new cafe space and an expanded menu of foods from the family’s own culture their Korean heritage and Yoo-Mi’s time spent in Brazil. Inspired by what the Lees eat at home, Tá Jóia allows the cook and matriarch to show off her culinary talent with everything from pico de gallo to kimchi fried rice. “It’s my mom on a plate,” says her oldest daughter, Vivian.
Here are some chic, inexpensive gift ideas that can elevate thoughtful gestures into special presents.
Author of the article: Karl Lohnes • Special to the Montreal Gazette
Publishing date: Dec 12, 2020 • December 12, 2020 • 3 minute read • Rosie s Studio mini cross stitch kit unicorn, $5, Tigre Géant
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I’m ahead on my holiday to-do list this year. Holiday gifts are mailed off, the house is clean and the tree is up. All that’s left is to schedule some virtual visits and short walks with friends … and I want to buy a few small gifts for those friends.