Yana, an only child, grew up in Moscow. As a tiny tot, she enjoyed tiny squares of bitter chocolate that sweetened the cold of Russian winters. Upon moving to Chicago in the summer of 1997, she discovered the joys of chocolate milk and peanut M&M’s, thus cementing her love for both the sophisticated flavor of dark chocolate and the exuberant cheerfulness of candy.

While majoring in Literature at the University of Illinois C-U, Yana spent most mornings moonlighting as a cupcake decorator. After graduating, she abandoned Chaucer for chocolate and moved to Portland, OR to attend culinary school.

During long days as pastry chef for Crema Bakery in SE Portland, she dreamt of a chocolate company. The offspring of Yana’s love for puns and unexpected flavors, Only Child Chocolate Co. seizes your hand and takes you on a joyful adventure in taste.

Rosemary & Ginger Walk Into a Bar - Milk chocolate with rosemary & candied ginger

Best Fronds Forever - Milk chocolate with peanuts, coconut, fennel, & cayenne

Cashew Later! - Dark chocolate with cashew, tumeric, and milk chocolate filling

Hedgehog in the Fog - White chocolate with bergamot & black pepper