This isn’t just a book in our shop.
It’s part of the story behind it.
Written by my niece, Alli Parker, At the Foot of the Cherry Tree tells the journey of my mum — a Hiroshima survivor — and my father, an Australian soldier.
Their story is one of resilience, quiet courage, and a love that crossed cultures at a time when that wasn’t easily accepted.
👉 That story shaped our family — and the way I see food.
Because for me, cooking has never just been about recipes.
It’s about connection, sharing, and bringing people together at the table.
You’ll see Japanese influence throughout what I do — from simple techniques to dishes like okonomiyaki.
That didn’t come from a textbook.
It came from Mum.
👉 Real food, made in a real home, adapting to what was available — but never losing its soul.
This book tells that story.
A beautifully presented keepsake, designed to be shared or treasured:
All thoughtfully wrapped with Japanese-inspired presentation.
This is a story of:
👉 The same values that sit behind everything we do at Underground Chef.
💌 Carefully prepared and packaged by hand
📦 Available Australia-wide
⚠️ Limited quantities — this format will not be restocked
Some of the most important things I’ve learned in the kitchen didn’t come from training — they came from home.
Underground Chef is designed to fit into real life, not take it over. You can start gently, explore at your own pace, and choose the level of guidance that feels right for you.
There’s no pressure to commit and no long-term lock-in. Just thoughtful support, clear guidance, and a way of cooking that works around how you live today.
