YUGENN is bringing a bold new energy to South End - where contemporary Japanese dining meets sensory experience. With a refined, feminine touch and a curated vibe, YUGENN is your next must-visit destination. From cutting-edge sushi to unexpected Modern Asian-inspired creations, this is where culinary artistry meets cocktail culture.
Host your next party with ease and let us take care of the food. From small groups to large celebrations, we've got your culinary needs covered.
Chef Boi is a Laotian-American chef born in New Orleans in 1987 and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina from the age of four. Shaped by a close-knit family and strong sense of community, his early years laid the foundation for the perspective he brings to the kitchen today. In high school, he developed a passion for the arts—particularly drawing and dancing—while navigating academic challenges that ultimately led him to leave school early.
His professional journey began at Starbucks in Charlotte Douglas Airport, where he worked full-time to support his family while searching for his path. That path took shape at Chopstix in Mooresville, where he trained under Chef Khoa Nguyen, whose mentorship sparked his passion for sushi. Through discipline, hands-on experience, and self-driven study, Chef Boi advanced quickly, earning a sous chef position within just two years.
Now with over a decade of culinary experience, Chef Boi continues to refine his craft with intention and humility. His work is rooted in growth, storytelling, and a deep appreciation for the journey—bringing both ambition and gratitude to every dish he creates.
Christopher Nguyen began his culinary career as a prep and line cook, where he developed a strong foundation in discipline, precision, and kitchen operations. His passion for Japanese cuisine led him to train at O-ku in Charlotte, where he progressed from prep to mastering maki, nigiri, and sashimi over the course of two years.
He continued refining his craft in omakase under Chef Eiji at Hestia and Chef Kap at Miku Asian Kitchen, shaping a style that balances creativity with a deep respect for traditional technique.
Now serving as Executive Sous Chef at Yugenn under Chef Boi Phomsopha, Nguyen brings a thoughtful, evolving perspective to his work—pushing boundaries while staying rooted in the fundamentals.
Driven by a passion for hospitality, he takes pride in delivering a consistent, high-quality experience for every guest. With a humble and disciplined approach, he remains committed to continuous growth, refining his craft, and creating intentional, well-executed dishes.
Where do I begin?! Yugenn is a vibe from start to finish. Beautiful, upscale, modern, and elegant. Perfect for date night or a girls night out. I've tried just about everything on the menu so far. From food to the amazing drinks, everything is full of flavor and delicious. Such a great experience all around.
Beautiful restaurant and ambiance. As for the food, every dish was a delightful surprise. Perfectly cooked, bursting with flavor, and beautifully presented. I highly recommend Yugenn to anyone in Charlotte looking for a memorable dining experience.
I had a great experience dining with one of my girlfriends! The ambiance was lovely, the staff was friendly, and the food was incredibly fresh and delicious.We both really enjoyed everything. Definitely coming back again!
