
Cooking is Love
About me

Mihoko Obunai, a master chef originally from Tokyo, Japan, relocated to New York City, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education from New York University and a degree in culinary arts from the French Culinary Institute. Following her formal training, she refined her expertise at several Michelin-starred establishments throughout the city.
Obunai’s culinary accomplishments have been featured in numerous publications and recognized as a Rising Star Chef in the United States, she has appeared on the Food Network and other broadcast programs.
Distinguished by a unique perspective on Japanese and international cuisine, Obunai prioritizes flavorful, wholesome dishes. Her creative style synthesizes tradition with contemporary influences to deliver an engaging and memorable dining experience.

Highlights
ACIEVEMENT
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Top 10 New Restaurants in the USA, Esquire Magazine, 2006
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Rising Star Chef Award, NYC, 2007
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"Opening Soon" Reality Aspiring restauranteurs open hot, new restaurants, Food Network, 2009
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Best in Atlanta, AJC and Atlanta Magazine, 2012
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"Chopped" Contestant, Food Network, 2017
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Winner of the Ramen Battle, International Culinary Congress, New York City, 2015
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Fontegro International Chef Congress, Kiev, 2017
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Winner of The National Real School Food Challenge, ICC, New York City, 2020
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Winner of "Raid the Fridge," Food Network, 2022
CREDENTIAL
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Performance Chef Certificate, PCA
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Culinary Arts Certificate, French Culinary Institute
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Macrobiotic Chef Certificate, Kushi Institute

Services

Personal Chef / Performance Chef
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Customized menus: Creating menus that fit clients's dietary restrictions and life style.
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Grocery shopping: Sourcing and purchase of fresh seasonal local ingredients.
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In-Home cooking: Preparing meals in the client's kitchen.
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Kitchen management: Maintaining a clean, organized kitchen and kitchen inventory.
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Travel: Providing culinary services at different location.
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Event planning: Planning and coordinating special events.
Daniel Orr, IN
You will never be bored with her cooking. Her take on Japanese/American/International healthy
meals can not be beat.
Luc Dendievel, VA
Chef Obunai is highly skilled in preparing a wide variety of dishes and excels in both menu
planning and kitchen management. Her ability to combine technical precision with culinary
innovation makes her stand out as a truly exceptional chef.
Kim Bosewell, GA
Her creativity and passion for bringing people together through food shine in every single dish she creates.