Chef
Cooking has always been more than just a profession for me—it’s my way of bringing people together, creating memories, and sharing a piece of my culture with every dish I serve. With over 25 years in the food and hospitality industry, my journey has been shaped by a deep passion for great food, warm hospitality, and the joy of seeing people connect over a meal.
I started my culinary career at Bar de España PERO in Ginza, where I fell in love with the energy of a busy kitchen and the art of crafting unforgettable dining experiences. I worked my way up to Assistant Manager, but my hunger for growth pushed me to explore more. I joined Grand Hyatt Tokyo, where I had the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, luxury dining environment, learning from some of the best in the industry.
In 2010, I became part of the founding team at Two Rooms Grill/Bar, working alongside top Hyatt F&B executives to create one of Tokyo’s most beloved dining spots. That experience gave me the confidence to take a leap of faith in 2015 and open my first restaurant, Farm Grill/Bar, in Tachikawa. It was a labor of love—every detail, from the menu to the atmosphere, was built around my vision of quality and hospitality. When I successfully sold the restaurant in 2017, I took my skills to Trattoria Gran Bocca in Iidabashi, refining my expertise in Italian cuisine and restaurant management.
By 2019, I knew it was time to create something truly my own—DiDi Grande, an Italian-inspired steakhouse in Azabujuban. The name is personal: “DiDi” means “to eat” in my native Akan language, and “Grande” signifies abundance in Latin. To me, food is about generosity—generosity of flavors, of experiences, and of the connections we make around the table. At DiDi Grande, I focus on “Farm to Table” excellence, hand-selecting every cut of beef from Shikishima Farm in Tochigi Prefecture to ensure the highest quality and flavor.
But DiDi Grande is more than just a restaurant—it’s a reflection of who I am. It’s a place where I get to share my passion for food, my love for people, and my belief that a great meal should feel like coming home. For over five years, we’ve welcomed guests from all over the world, and nothing makes me happier than seeing familiar faces return, knowing they feel like part of the family.
So, whether you’re here for a special occasion, a casual dinner, or just to see what makes DiDi Grande so special, I invite you to pull up a seat, enjoy a perfectly grilled steak, and experience the warmth and heart that go into every dish. Because for me, food isn’t just about eating—it’s about bringing people together. And that’s what DiDi Grande is all about.