I create farm-and-sea-to-table meals that bring joy, balance, and deep healing—using locally sourced, organic, non-GMO ingredients inspired by Asian and Pacific wellness traditions.

Yumi Teraguchi

I cook to heal—your body, your vacation, and my island home.

My culinary path is focused on healing: healing through eating well while we also heal the Earth. I invite you to experience oneness with Kaua’i through a beautiful, nourishing meal that celebrates the island’s abundance—so your time here feels unforgettable and deeply connected. I started cooking with my mother when I was five in my hometown of Kamakura, Japan, learning to listen to fresh ingredients and create from intuition. For over 25 years I’ve studied and practiced Eastern food medicine, Ayurveda, and Macrobiotics, which guide how I choose spices, ingredients, and combinations to bring the body back into balance—all in a calm, Zen environment.

Plan my meal with you

My secret in the kitchen is love and Aloha—the most important ingredients that make food emotionally delicious, because I choose everything carefully and intentionally.

What you can expect when I cook for you

I cook for joy and healing

For me, cooking is joy and healing. I design meals to help you feel nourished while honoring the land, and I focus on enhancing the unique flavor and healing properties of each ingredient.

My roots are home-taught and deeply studied

I learned to cook at a very young age from my mother, and I’ve felt the joy of transforming fresh ingredients into delicious meals ever since. Over the years I’ve also studied and practiced Ayurveda and Macrobiotics, which shape how I build balanced, restorative menus.

I lead with intention, love, and Aloha

My kitchen philosophy is love and Aloha. I choose ingredients with care and intention, because that feeling is what makes a meal not only delicious, but emotionally nourishing too.

Yumi’s Menus

I offer curated, island-inspired menus that highlight local seafood, seasonal produce, and wellness-forward Asian/Pacific flavors. I’m happy to help you choose the right dinner for your group and create a beautiful, balanced flow from starters through dessert.

Request my menus

Reviews

Yumi did an incredible job putting together a customized menu for my family, which included adults and children. The menu was fresh, vibrant, and included incredible flavors from the local Hawaii region we were staying in. Additionally, it was delicious and enjoyable for all ages! We used her for both brunch and breakfast services, as well as dinners, and each meal fully exceeded our expectations. She provided all the required services, including a robust cleanup of her entire workstation prior to departure. It was a huge relief to have great meal prepared in our rental and a great experience for our entire party. Would definitely consider using the service and Yumi again.

Meghan Phillips28 junio 2026

4.83

Yumi is a masterful chef who also has a real understanding of Kaua’i and its history and culture. The meal she prepared was sourced locally and some of it she gathered herself. She brings everything needed for the meal (just need pans, cutting board and mixing bowls). Watching Yumi work is a masterclass in efficiency and precision. There are many delightful touches from her homemade lilikoi syrup to the roasted seeds she prepares for the salad and so on.,

Stuart9 diciembre 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rates for private chef services in United States?

I build every menu from scratch, so what you pay depends on the dishes, how many guests, and the kind of service you want. Most of my dinners come to around 199 USD, and I'll always work with the budget you have in mind. Send me a message and I'll put together a proposal for your event.

What kind of food do I specialize in?

I cook Chef's special, Local, Seafood/Fish and Japanese. I build my menus around ingredients that are in season and bought locally, because that's where the flavor is. And if anyone at your table has a dietary restriction, just tell me and I'll adjust the dishes so no one misses out.

How can you book my private chef services in United States?

To book me in United States, click the Book Now button on this page and follow the steps. You'll add your event date, guest count, and any dietary restrictions as you go. Once your request comes through, I read it myself and reply with a menu proposal and the dates I have open.

Do I provide private chef services for events or special occasions?

Yes. I regularly cook for Birthday, Family reunion, Friends gathering and Foodie adventure. I handle the menu, the timing, and the setup so the meal fits the kind of event you're throwing. Send me your date and I'll check whether I'm free.

Can the menus accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?

Choose a menu, share your event details, and the Private Chef Manager team will help confirm the experience with the chef.

Let’s create a beautiful meal together—email me to plan your Kaua’i experience.

[email protected]
+1 8086344557

Omao, Koloa, HI 96756, USA

Chef Yumi Teraguchi

I create farm-and-sea-to-table meals that bring joy, balance, and deep healing—using locally sourced, organic, non-GMO ingredients inspired by Asian and Pacific wellness traditions.

I cook to heal—your body, your vacation, and my island home.

What you can expect when I cook for you

I cook for joy and healing

My roots are home-taught and deeply studied

I lead with intention, love, and Aloha

Yumi’s Menus

Kaua'i Fish Dinner

Authentic Hawaiian Favorites dinner

Authentic Japanese dinner

Island Comfort Dinner

Vegan island dinner

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions