Chef Rina Nakano at Tori Jiro, Watertown

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About Chef Rina Nakano

Rina Nakano is the new yakitori chef at Tori Jiro, bringing 12 years of Fukuoka-inspired expertise to the grill. She has a deep understanding of yakitori, having started her journey in Fukuoka, known as "yakitori Island." Her career includes significant experience in management and the opening of multiple yakitori and kushikatsu establishments.

Chef Timeline

Approximately 12 years ago

Began culinary journey in Fukuoka

Started her career in Fukuoka, Japan, focusing on yakitori. Fukuoka is known as "yakitori Island".

Within 1 year (of starting)

Promoted to Store Manager

After demonstrating skill in yakitori training and cooking, she was promoted to store manager.

Undated (prior to Tori Jiro)

Key role in opening new stores

Played a crucial role in opening four yakitori restaurants and one kushikatsu restaurant.

Undated (prior to Tori Jiro)

Became Area Manager

Progressed to an area manager position, continuing to be hands-on in culinary operations.

September 2024

Became new Yakitori Chef

Tori Jiro

Joined Tori Jiro as the lead yakitori chef, leading the culinary team and planning omakase and pop-up events.

Insights

Key Information

Rina Nakano is the new yakitori chef at Tori Jiro, bringing 12 years of Fukuoka-inspired expertise to the grill. She has a deep understanding of yakitori, having started her journey in Fukuoka, known as "yakitori Island." Her career includes significant experience in management and the opening of multiple yakitori and kushikatsu establishments.

Cuisine Highlights

Fukuoka-inspired YakitoriYakitoriKushikatsu

News

In September 2024, Rina Nakano was announced as the new yakitori chef at Tori Jiro, bringing her extensive Fukuoka-inspired expertise to the restaurant.

Restaurants by chef

Tori Jiro

Iconic dishes

Yakitori, Kushikatsu

Additional Details

Chef Nakano's passion for yakitori grew from a young age, frequenting the numerous yakitori spots in Fukuoka. She was particularly impressed by Tori Jiro's yakitori, describing it as unlike anything she had experienced before. Her dedication led her to master the art of yakitori, and she is known for being deeply hands-on in her culinary approach, even while in management roles. She is keen to share her skills through omakase and pop-up events, often collaborating with local guest chefs.

Data Freshness: 1mo ago