Pasta Polo Coquitlam: Chef Ahyoung Baek's Story

Eighteen years ago, Ahyoung Baek arrived in Canada with her husband Jeremy, in their own words, "an open heart and big dreams for our family." Having trained in Italian cuisine in Melbourne, Australia, before making the move, her first job in Canada was at a steakhouse in Edmonton, where the owner did more than hire her — he believed in her, and sponsored her permanent residency. That act of generosity, she says, showed her the power of community early on. Today, as chef and owner-operator of Pasta Polo, she brings that same spirit of mentorship and giving back to the Tri-Cities every day.

Baek’s story with Pasta Polo began more than 13 years ago. She fell in love with the restaurant’s soul, became a partner, and in 2023 took full ownership with her husband Jeremy, keeping founder Fred’s original vision alive. Over the years, Pasta Polo has evolved from a neighbourhood spot for fresh pasta and brick-oven pizza into what Baek calls "a true community living room" — featuring local artwork from the Port Moody Arts Centre and serving as a welcoming gathering space.

For the past decade, Pasta Polo has served chili at the Holiday Train — a tradition that started as a simple way to keep neighbours warm during the festivities, while raising food and funds for the SHARE Food Bank. For the last three years, Baek’s kids have joined in to help serve — a natural way, she says, for them to learn the value of giving back. "Seeing hundreds of families bundle up, enjoy hot chili, and celebrate together is pure magic."

Involving her kids directly in community work is the family tradition Baek says she’s most proud of. Whether they’re volunteering or cooking together, she wants them to understand why a strong community matters — and how everyone can contribute.

Born and raised in Korea, Baek calls her heritage her foundation. "My Korean roots are my foundation — they gave me my work ethic, resilience, and a deep-seated belief that food is the ultimate love language." At home, she makes sure her kids speak Korean so they stay connected to their roots. At Pasta Polo, that warmth lets her share a piece of her heritage while building bridges across our multicultural community.

Baek’s work extends well past the kitchen. As Second Vice President of the BC Chefs Association, she hopes to champion mentorship, food security, and BC’s local food ecosystem — opening doors for emerging culinary talent and advocating for sustainable local sourcing. And after moving to Port Moody, she joined the board of the Port Moody Heritage Society. "To truly love a community, you have to honor its roots," she says, describing it as a way to help bridge the city’s rich past with its diverse, growing future.

The recognition has followed. Baek was named Tri-Cities Chamber Member of the Year and recognized by local leaders Paul Choi and Bonita Zarrillo. Building a business as an immigrant comes with plenty of hustle, she says, and the honours felt like "a massive warm hug" — proof that the late nights and community heart poured into Pasta Polo truly resonate with people.

Baek’s goal is to ensure Pasta Polo remains a true community staple for years to come — continuing to innovate with seasonal dishes, support local artists, and host collaborative events that bring neighbours together around the table.

And at home? Her favourite cooking is a comforting Korean soup — though honestly, she says, her favourite meals are the ones her kids cook. Jason makes an incredible steak, and Alyssa makes a fantastic burrata salad. "They are both very good cooks!"

Watching how former owner Fred Soofi gives back to his community, Baek is still paying that generosity forward — one bowl of chili, one neighbour at a time.