DIANA YEN
COOKBOOK AUTHOR, FOOD STYLIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER
September 2024
Meet Diana. The food consultant, recipe developer and lifestyle guru that embodies that California effortless ease in everything she does. From her chicly clever why-didn’t-I-think-of-that DIY approach to home design to her recipes that are as stunning as they are delicious (if you’ve seen her butter flowers or her matcha affogato, you know), to her creative studio A La Carte, Diana brings it all magically to life for us to enjoy. And with an upcoming cookbook, it’ll be all in print for us to cherish. Let’s catch up with Diana, shall we?
Follow Diana @diana_yen_
Who are you?
Diana Yen. I'm a cookbook author, food stylist, and photographer. At my core, I'm an artist that relishes in the beauty of everyday living.
What’s on your mind?
Fall. For me it always signals new beginnings, even more so than a new year. It's about setting new goals and intentions. To think about how I can best serve the world.
Where are you right now?
Ojai, California. I'm cozy at home after a few weeks of summer travel. Everytime I come back from vacation, I realize the best place is home. I'm a bit of a homebody and find comfort in building my nest.
Who are your heroes?
Personal heroes: My mother, who was an ambitious home cook, Quy Nguyen who has the best taste in everything, and my sisters.
Food heroes: Deb Perelman, a humble queen. Ignacio Mattos, everything he touches is heavenly. Andrea Sham and her ethereal desserts.
Why do you do what you do?
I love food because it lets you use all your senses. And everyone loves to eat, regardless of social class, whether you're rich or poor, we all have an opinion about food. It's like a universal language. I didn't really choose this path, rather it chose me.
What is your favorite thing to drink?
Fresh squeezed Ojai orange juice. I had a glass yesterday and it gave me life!
What is your favorite thing to eat?
Very fresh seafood. I love the act of cracking open shells, savoring the bits, messy eating with my hands. It is very much a carnal pleasure.
When are you most happy?
Cuddling my dog, writing a recipe that gives people success in the kitchen, being with people I love that inspire me to be my best. And swimming in nature.
Wise Words
Create the good, the true, and the beautiful.