Greetings from the President

The word “restaurant” is derived from a term that means “restoring,” used for both the mind and the body. Our business, transcending the boundaries of region, country, language, and ethnicity, is precisely about addressing the human need for restoration. We provide not only delicious cuisine but also a carefully designed setting and hospitality experience, offering satisfaction, happiness, and meaningful moments of connection during the dining hours.

I grew up in Kanazawa until graduating from junior high school at the age of 15. Back then, my family ran five directly managed restaurants, which kept my parents extremely busy. For as long as I can remember, I never really enjoyed a family dinner. On the rare occasion that we did sit down together, either the restaurant staff or customers would join us, so it was never easy to express my true thoughts to my parents. At some point, I started thinking that sort of home was not what I wanted. I hoped to lead a normal life, as a school teacher or a scholar. In the summer of my second year of junior high, when it was time to choose a high school, I found myself alone with my father one day. “I’m taking you to Tokyo next week,” he told me, “and we’re going to have some great food.” I didn’t know what to expect. We went to a sukiyaki restaurant, owned by a fellow member of the Japan Restaurant Association. While enjoying the sukiyaki—then considered a luxury dish—the owner spoke to me with words someone my age could understand. He talked about the joy of the restaurant business, and how fulfilling and restorative it can be. I realized how immature and naive I was, and I was ashamed. At that moment I decided to follow in my parents’ footsteps. I studied diligently to gain admission to Rikkyo University’s College of Tourism, then at the forefront of education in that field. I was able to enter Rikkyo Senior High School and ultimately achieved my goal of attending the college. After working at Hotel New Otani, where I became acquainted with the Association, I returned to Kanazawa when I was 26 and have remained there since.
Three years after returning to my hometown, my father passed away, and I came close to losing my direction. In those challenging times, the Association became a source of support for me. Attending seminars and food tasting workshops gave me an unexpected sense of belonging, like being part of a warm and caring family. It brought me strength and wisdom. To this day, I am grateful for everything the Association has done.
To further develop the Association, blessed with those wonderful members, and to make it even more beneficial, however modest my abilities may be, I will dedicate my utmost effort and commitment to fulfill my role as president.


March 2024