Pikunico

Kuniko Yagi Moved From Tokyo to the U.S. for Love But Became a Chef Instead | Bon Appétit

"A Los Angeles fast-casual karaage fried chicken concept founded and led by the chef-owner to serve comforting, nostalgic, craveable foods to many people. The menu and concept are rooted in childhood memories of fried chicken as a weekend treat, and the model was chosen for scalability and broad appeal; the venture was backed by investor David Lee of Kaizen Dining Group. As an owner she prioritizes a supportive kitchen culture—mixed-gender staffing, open communication, and an ‘oasis’ environment where cooks can focus—making it easier for women to enter and stay in the kitchen." - ByKuniko Yagi