i. Biography
The Route
Fine-dining pastry work in Chicago set the technical base: plated-dessert precision, hotel production discipline, and restaurant pacing. Aya Fukai built that register at Elysium Hotel in Chicago and Trump International Hotel & Tower in Chicago, then carried it into the Pastry Chef role at Maple & Ash in Chicago. Her current work holds both independent bakery production and multi-restaurant pastry direction: founder and Pastry Chef of Aya Pastry, and Pastry Director of Momotaro Chicago & Nashville, Izakaya, & Itoko.
The Current Chapter
Independent bakery ownership remains central to the practice, with Aya Fukai’s ongoing work as founder of Aya Pastry in Chicago sitting alongside her Pastry Director role. The Samoa cake shows how a familiar reference can be rebuilt through pastry structure rather than nostalgia alone. Fukai’s version, inspired by her favorite Girl Scout cookie, is made with chocolate buttermilk cake, dulce de leche buttercream, toasted coconut, and chocolate for crunch. Instruction is also part of the work. Fukai’s Japanese Sweet Potato Pie recipe, featured in a virtual demo and discussion, places recipe, technique, and exchange in the same frame. The detail matters: sweet potato, pie, instruction, and conversation all point toward a pastry practice that does not stop at display case beauty. Her stated philosophy is direct and generous: dessert should spark happiness and connection.
Signature
Signature dishes include Samoa cake and Japanese Sweet Potato Pie recipe.
The Record
Aya Fukai has received James Beard Award: Outstanding Pastry Chef nominee (2017). Professional recognition for the pastry work includes Best New Baked Good Empire (2021), Pastry Chef of the Year (2018), Outstanding Pastry Chef nominee (2017), and National Pastry Chef of the Year (2016).
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Aya
Who is Aya Fukai?
Aya Fukai is chef at Aya Pastry — Pattiserie.
Where did Aya Fukai work before?
Earlier in their career, Aya Fukai worked at Elysium Hotel, Trump International Hotel & Tower, and Maple & Ash.
What recognition has Aya Fukai received?
Best New Baked Good Empire (2021).
