Hi, I’m Emily Johnson, a 38-year-old Turkish-American home cook based in Santa Cruz, California. I grew up in Istanbul with a Turkish mom who could turn simple ingredients into magic, and an American dad who believed breakfast was sacred. Our kitchen was always alive with the scent of spices, sizzling pans, and laughter a place where cultures danced together through food.
When I moved to California, I brought my heritage with me, packed in jars of sumac, dreams of gözleme, and a deep craving for connection. I started recreating my childhood favorites using local ingredients, blending the warmth of Mediterranean cooking with the bright, fresh flavors of the West Coast. Every dish became a love letter to where I came from and where I am now.
I love cooking meals that feel familiar yet surprising. One night it might be lentil soup with a twist of Meyer lemon, the next it’s fish tacos seasoned with sumac. My dishes aren’t about perfection—they’re about warmth, comfort, and a little creativity. I’ve burned more than one tray of baklava, and I once made rice so sticky it turned into a spoonable brick—but every mistake taught me something new.
Today, I cook for my family, friends, and anyone hungry for comforting, soulful meals. My food isn’t fancy, but it’s full of heart sometimes a little messy, often improvised, and always meant to be shared. If you love meals that tell a story and bring people together, I’d love to have you join me in the kitchen.
