During the day, K. Mie Nakayama works at small nonprofit in San Francisco and nourishes her soul by finding funding for programs benefiting at-risk youth. In the evenings and weekends, however, Mie (pronounced “ME-ya”) moonlights as a food aficionado. Mie recalls her first love: a four-cheese grilled sandwich on lightly toasted focaccia bread with extra virgin olive oil lightly drizzled on top and garnished with marinated heirloom tomatoes, diced fresh lemon basil and a dollop of creamy goat cheese. Mmmm…

Since the 80’s, Mie’s culinary pursuits took her across the nation and around the world: France, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Bermuda, Thailand, China, Ireland, Scotland and England (yes, even England has food worth reporting!) While in Chiangmai, Thailand, Mie studied in a culinary course and unraveled the complex and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine. She regularly tortures her husband by experimenting with increased doses of green Thai chili in her coconut curry. To earn back brownie points and trust, she also prepares him his favorite homemade Hawaiian-style baby back ribs with creamy rosemary-garlic mashed potatoes and Ghiradelli’s double dark chocolate brownies. Her husband, Joel does the dishes and often complains of Mie’s overabundant use of pots, pans and dishes. He’s a patient, understanding soul.

Mie and her husband live in restaurant-haven San Francisco. They do not have any children because they are still too selfish to invest in offspring and take funds away from their dining and drinking budget. Soon, though. In the meantime, Mie spoils her other two “kids” –German Sheppard mutts her and her husband rescued. Unlike their parents, these furry and obnoxious two pups, Zadie (2 yrs) and Yumi (1 yr), are on a strict dry diet and a regular exercise routine. On special occasions, Mie treats them with homemade peanut butter and oatmeal dog biscuits (obnoxious, ain’t it?)

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