Kaori Mincer

My signature dish, Babachan’s Adult Okosama Lunch, is a grown-up take on Japan’s beloved kids’ meal, all the nostalgia, reimagined for adults. Think juicy hambagu (Japanese style meat patty) topped with melted cheese and Babachan’s signature sauce, two golden crispy croquettes, one creamy béchamel and crab, one hearty beef and potato, and a classic omurice of fluffy egg over savory chicken rice. Comfort and nostalgia with a chef’s touch, all on one plate ❤️

My inspiration is my mom, the namesake behind my business Babachan’s Cooking, and the best chef I know. Growing up, she had a gift for creating amazing homemade dishes even when we didn’t have a lot. I spent countless hours watching and helping her in the kitchen and I still do. Those recipes she passed down to me are the heart and soul of everything I cook today. 🌸

Winning would allow me to create a dedicated kitchen studio where people gather, learn and feel connected. It would allow me to reach more home cooks, with beginners finding their confidence and passionate cooks deepening their love through classes, events, and an expanded social media and marketing presence. I would love to publish the cookbook I’ve dreamed of, a collection of homemade Japanese recipes, approachable for every skill level, rooted in the meals my mom and I cooked together.