For Tetiana Yaroshenko, co-founder of Ukrainian Flavors, food has always been more than nourishment — it’s a bridge to home and a source of comfort.
It’s also a growing business that delivers authentic Ukrainian meals to families in Santa Barbara, Ventura County and Los Angeles.
Before the war in Ukraine uprooted her life in 2022, Yaroshenko worked in the tech world, helping companies streamline their business operations through software.
But after fleeing to Poland and then to California, everything changed.
“I didn’t know anyone here,” Yaroshenko explained. “I had to start from zero — learning the language, building a new life.”
Amid the uncertainty, it was her time in the kitchen that grounded her. Cooking familiar dishes became a way to stay connected to her roots.
From this quiet ritual, Ukrainian Flavors was born.
Food That Speaks
The spark for delivering homemade Ukrainian meals came naturally. As Yaroshenko prepared traditional dishes for her family, she realized how deeply food could reconnect people with their culture — especially for Ukrainian immigrants and their descendants living far from home.
“One homemade dish can bring back a whole world of warmth and belonging,” she said.
Today, from a production kitchen in Camarillo, Ukrainian Flavors offers a menu rooted in family recipes.
Tetiana Yaroshenko, co-founder of Ukrainian Flavors, prepares traditional dishes rooted in family recipes, bringing the tastes and comfort of her homeland to customers throughout the South Coast. Credit: Ukrainian Flavors photo 
The poppy seed and raisin crêpes create a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. Credit: Ukrainian Flavors photo 
The potato and fried bacon pierogis feature creamy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon. Credit: Ukrainian Flavors photo
Customers can order beloved classics like varenyky (pierogi) with potato, cheese or mushroom fillings;hearty beef-stuffed cabbage rolls; comforting borscht; and delicate sweet and savory crêpes.
Every dish is handmade, cooked and frozen for easy heating — a nod to the fast pace of American life but with the soul of a Ukrainian grandmother’s kitchen.
For those new to Ukrainian cuisine, Yaroshenko recommends starting with three favorites: Potato and Mushroom Pierogi, Strawberry and Sweet Cheese Crêpes, and Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.
These approachable dishes offer a warm introduction to the flavors of her homeland.
The Art of Authenticity
Behind each meal is a commitment to authenticity — and an incredible amount of attention to detail.
“Every family in Ukraine has its own way of preparing traditional dishes,” Yaroshenko said.
Through trial, testing and a discerning palate, she’s curated the best versions of these recipes, sourcing ingredients from both local farms and specialty suppliers across the United States.
Finding the right poppy seeds, the sweetest beetroot or the perfect cabbage isn’t always easy — but for Yaroshenko, it’s essential.
“I never compromise on flavor,” she said. “Our customers may not see the work behind the scenes, but every ingredient matters.”
Building a Business
Of course, running a frozen meal delivery business is a complex endeavor. Logistics, partnerships and operations are just as critical as the cooking itself.
Fortunately, with her husband’s background in business process optimization, the duo has built a system that allows Ukrainian Flavors to thrive.
Their meals can now be found in local stores such as The Eddy, at 137 E. De la Guerra St., and Tri-County Produce, at 335 S. Milpas St. in Santa Barbara; Pacific Health Foods at 944 Linden Ave. in Carpinteria; and Rainbow Bridge Village Marketplace at 211 E. Matilija St. in Ojai.
Direct delivery is also available through platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash and Grubhub, while customers farther afield can pick up orders directly from the Camarillo kitchen at 115 Dawson Drive.
For Yaroshenko, the most rewarding moments come when customers share their stories.
Many are second- or third-generation Ukrainian Americans rediscovering flavors they thought they had lost. Others are new to the cuisine, eager to explore.
“When someone tells us they haven’t tasted Ukrainian food since their grandparents were alive, it means so much to me,” Yaroshenko said.
“I feel honored to bring back those memories for them.”
Looking Ahead
As demand grows, so do Ukrainian Flavors’ dreams. The team is actively expanding partnerships with local grocers and exploring opportunities in new regions like San Luis Obispo.
But for Yaroshenko, expansion must always be intentional.
“We’re committed to staying true to what makes our food special: handmade meals, authentic taste and a sense of home in every bite,” Yaroshenko said.
The heart of Ukrainian Flavors lies in its mission — not just to feed people, but to nurture connections, preserve traditions and offer comfort through food.
“I put my whole heart into this,” Yaroshenko said. “I hope that when people taste our meals, they feel the love and care that goes into every dish.”
Click here for more information about Ukrainian Flavors.
