Baker & A Black Cat
Nikki Ozawa
Placerville, 530-748-5366

Describe your business. Did you find it, or did it find you?

A little bit of both. I've been baking and cooking since I was three years old, and after spending a lot of time as “not a baker,” I eventually went to culinary school, worked for Disney, and made baking a career. Now I have my own Cottage Bakery (fully licensed and permitted), and I get to make beautiful cakes and cupcakes for my wonderful clients. Best job ever! 

What life accomplishments are you most proud of?

I'm so lucky to have several—graduating from the University of Southern California (I'm a second-generation Trojan—fight on!); studying abroad in Paris at l'Université Paris-Sorbonne; earning a JD; studying pastry and baking at Le Cordon Bleu; being a cast member in the Production Bakery at Epcot; and having my own business!

Who is your role model in business or in life, and why?

My dad. I grew up watching him run his oral surgery practice, and he gave me my first job. He taught me everything—especially the organization, dedication, attention to detail and work ethic that's critical to running a business. Now he's one of my business partners, so I still get to benefit from all that experience. 

What’s your biggest job perk?

Someone has to sample everything and make sure it tastes good, right? Actually, it's getting to meet so many awesome people.

What’s your favorite place to eat out locally?

The Independent Restaurant and Bar.

If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?

Gesine Bullock-Prado, a pastry chef in Vermont. Her story about leaving a high-powered legal career to become a baker and do what she loves best resonates so strongly with me; of course, I'd spend the entire meeting fangirling.

Do you know that our editorial is not paid for, nor can it be purchased? In fact, our Introducing and Eat & Drink section reviews are not paid advertisements. If you’d like your business profiled, please email Megan Wiskus at [email protected]. Once we determine when your business will be featured, we will contact you to schedule a time to come out and take a photograph. Thank you!