About me
Hi, I’m Sara! I believe food has a unique power to connect people and create lasting memories. My culinary journey started when I was a kid growing up in Hawaii, immersed in the kitchen traditions of my Japanese mother. Observing her incredible home cooking and listening to her stories about ingredients and culture taught me from a young age that food is deeply intertwined with memories. Growing up with access to Hawaii's incredible fresh seafood and produce truly defined my palate and my appreciation for fresh, vibrant flavors and asian ingredients.
Living in San Francisco for over 10 years now, I'm constantly inspired by the bounty of our local markets. My approach to cooking beautifully marries both my western and asian heritage. I bring influences from my upbringing with the incredible seasonal ingredients found right here in Northern California, creating dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
My path to becoming a private chef has been a dedicated one. I pursued formal culinary training, spent time at the William Sonoma Test Kitchen where I contributed to recipe development and testing for their diverse publications and products. My hands-on experience extends to staging at respected San Francisco restaurants, and most recently, I've been part of a catering team bringing fresh local ingredients and culinary experiences to weddings and large events.
These diverse experiences have solidified my commitment to private cheffing. It's in this work that I can bring my professional expertise and my deep passion for hospitality directly to you. I love collaborating closely with clients to craft personalized menus, ensuring every detail is perfect for your gathering.
When I’m not cooking, you’ll likely find me in San Francisco hanging out with my husband and our 5 year old Australian Shepherd. We love spending our weekends crabbing, sea foraging, gardening or just exploring the bay area. Most day’s we’re cooking up a fun meal at home so food is always on my mind. I’m excited to meet and work with you. Let's create an unforgettable meal together!
