Who is she?

---

Born and raised in Baguio City, Philippines, Chef Jo Soeung’s culinary journey began long before professional kitchens and international stages. Rooted in Igorot heritage and surrounded by the flavors of the Cordilleras, Jo learned early on that food was never just about nourishment... it was about memory, connection, and community.

From traditional home-cooked meals prepared by family to the influence of Spanish and Asian flavors woven throughout Baguio’s food culture, Jo developed a deep appreciation for storytelling through food. Some of the most meaningful lessons came from Jo’s grandmother, whose cooking embodied warmth, patience, and care... values that continue to shape every experience created today.

Those early experiences became the foundation of a culinary philosophy centered around comfort, culture, and emotional connection.

In 2006, Jo moved to Seattle, Washington, where a new chapter began. While balancing work, school, and single motherhood, Jo immersed herself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, working through the hospitality industry from the ground up while pursuing a deeper understanding of food and culture.

Seattle became a place of resilience, growth, and reinvention. Over the years, Jo refined a culinary voice inspired by global flavors, Pacific Northwest ingredients, and the diversity of the people and communities encountered along the way.

In 2019, Jo relocated to Hawai‘i, where island life and multicultural influences further transformed that perspective. During this time, Jo launched culinary services and the Wow Baguio concept... an evolving storytelling platform inspired by migration, memory, and the connection between food and identity.

Today, based in Stuttgart, Germany, Jo continues to build experiences that blend Filipino roots with influences gathered from Seattle, Hawai‘i, and Europe. From intimate dining experiences and creative collaborations to storytelling-driven coffee and cultural projects, every concept reflects a journey that continues to evolve.

For nearly two decades, Chef Jo has created experiences rooted in culture, connection, and storytelling. Rather than simply serving food, Jo believes in creating moments that bring people together and leave lasting emotional memories.

Through Wow Baguio, private dining, curated collaborations, and the upcoming Cup of Jo coffee project, Jo explores the intersection of migration, identity, hospitality, and creativity.

Every plate, cup, and experience carries pieces of the journey... from Baguio City to Seattle, Hawai‘i, Germany, and beyond.

The mission is simple: To create meaningful experiences that feel personal, honest, and deeply human.