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

Stories and testimonials

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.,

Stuart