Chef Terawaki: A Culinary Journey of Passion and Fusion

Chef Terawaki’s culinary story began in his childhood home in Copiapó, Chile, where the aromas of Japanese and Chilean cuisine blended harmoniously to inspire a young chef in the making. His grandfather, Kiyomori Terawaki, a Japanese immigrant, and his Chilean grandmother, Severania Peña, created a home rich with diverse flavors and traditions.

Reflecting on his upbringing, Chef Terawaki recalls, “It was fascinating to see my grandfather cook traditional Japanese dishes while standing beside my grandmother as she prepared the delicious Chilean foods of her childhood.” This unique fusion of flavors, cultures, and love laid the foundation for his culinary passion.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management and International Cuisine from the University of INACAP, Chef Terawaki embarked on a remarkable career filled with exciting opportunities and transformative experiences.

In 1992, he was invited to join a televised cooking show on Chilean national television, quickly becoming a household name and rising to celebrity chef status. Of his decade-long tenure, he fondly shares, “It was fun, exciting, and challenging. The beauty of the experience was knowing the impact I was having on the other side of the studio cameras. I was connecting with families, introducing them to new flavors, aromas, and thousands of recipes.”

Simultaneously, Chef Terawaki dedicated his time to teaching, sharing his culinary and business expertise with aspiring chefs at the INCAP and INCACEA institutes in Santiago, Chile.

Inspired by his grandfather’s adventurous spirit, Chef Terawaki eventually sought new horizons, setting his sights on the United States. Guided by the motto, “Allow yourself to grow and embrace the opportunity to learn. Why not reinvent myself and discover new paths?” he embraced the challenge of starting fresh in a new country.

In 2004, Chef Terawaki joined the talented team at Pastry Swan Bakery in Cathedral City, California. Two years later, he began teaching at the California School of Culinary Arts, Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, CA. Later, in Atlanta, GA, he showcased his talents as an invited chef for a full season at CNN Café. He also assumed roles as Externship Coordinator and Career Services Advisor at Le Cordon Bleu College in Atlanta.

For over 25 years, Chef Terawaki has served as a Chef Consultant for the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association and has been a dedicated participant at The Global Floral and Produce Show, where he continues to captivate audiences with his culinary creations. This long-standing commitment remains a defining highlight of his illustrious career.

Throughout his journey, Chef Terawaki has earned countless accolades, but perhaps the title he cherishes most encapsulates his life’s work:

Chef by Trade, Love, and Passion.