"Cooking, to me, is a way I can give back to my friends and family. I want to make food that is satisfying, fun, guilt-free and... happy."

Born and raised in Maebashi, Japan, Kuniko Yagi began her culinary career after a brief but telling stint in banking led to the realization that her rebel spirit yearned for a more creative outlet. Inspiration struck after a chance encounter with Chef David Myers of Sona, one of the few Los Angeles restaurants to ever receive a Michelin star. Moved by Kuniko's zeal and natural affinity for gastronomy, he took a risk hiring the untrained cook, who quickly unearthed her unmistakable talent. She rapidly advanced through the ranks of Sona before serving as Executive Chef of Myers’ brasserie, Comme Ça, and eventually opening the award-winning Hinoki & the Bird, which earned her a number of critical accolades from bon appétit, Esquire, and more, in 2013.

Fast forward to present day, and Kuniko has since brought to life her childhood memories of picnicking with her grandmother in Japan through her first standalone passion project, Pikunico. The concept (whose name is a playful combination of “picnic” and “Kuniko”) offers housemade “karaage” (Japanese-style fried chicken), one of her favorite, guilt-free comfort foods she enjoyed growing up. Pikunico has brought the chef back to the essence of why she cooks: to make people happy.