About Me

Hi, my name is Olga. I am a self-taught cook who likes to merge culture, art and food.  Meals should be shared, both physically and emotionally because it affects our sense of sight, smell, taste and touch (texture of the food on our fingertips or on our tongue).  I am a foodist, a gourmet and gourmande.

I live in the Los Angeles area and love exploring the different ethnic neighborhoods.  L.A. is one of the greatest melting pots in the worlds.  One can have Chinese dim sum for breakfast, fresh California cuisine for lunch, an elegant dinner at one of the celebrity restaurants, and Indian chaat for snack!  There are Jewish and African enclaves where you could sample dishes.  Then there's a wide range of Asian cuisines to choose from of course.  And then there are lots of tiny places surprisingly tucked away in city centers and residential neighborhoods.  My favorite Italian grocery store has been described as an ethnic market within an ethnic market!

Gardening is one of my hobbies and which I consider an extension of my obsession with food.  It is an absolute delight to be able to run outside to the backyard when I need scallions, sorrel and tomatoes for a salad.


Although I am a seasoned cook, I am new to the blog community and welcome feedback and suggestions.  You may leave comments here or email me at hummingbirdhilljams@gmail.com.