About Cooking Mama KimStefani

Cooking Mama KimStefani (affectionately known as Cooking Mama Kim) brings together the heart of Korean home cooking with a lifelong love of global flavors. Raised in Korea, she grew up watching her mother prepare international dishes and host vibrant celebrations filled with food, family, and joy. After immigrating to the U.S. in 1972, she witnessed her mother creatively recreate Korean meals with limited access to authentic ingredients—an experience that deeply shaped her own cooking journey.
From working at a Hilton Hotel to launching her own pizza and deli shop, Mama Kim has always found ways to blend cultures through food. She famously introduced her own bulgogi steak subs and signature Korean-style chicken wings—early signs of her fusion flair. At age 25, she opened an Asian gourmet store in Georgetown, D.C., all while pursuing freelance design work.
Today, she is the founder of Gimga Design Group and KFoodinUS.com, where she continues to celebrate and promote Korean cuisine and culture. Married to her Italian-Jewish husband, Mama KimStefani also enjoys cooking Italian and contemporary American dishes for her loved ones, creating meals that reflect her beautifully blended life.
Her recipes are more than food—they’re stories, memories, and love on a plate.