EXILE SHOKICHI Unveils New Yakiniku Restaurant in Sapporo

In an exciting announcement for food enthusiasts and fans of EXILE SHOKICHI, the new yakiniku restaurant, "Hokkaido Yakiniku Yagien," is set to open in the spring of March 2026, in the Kiyota ward of Sapporo. This venture is orchestrated by LDH Kitchen, with SHOKICHI himself supervising the unique culinary project.

The concept of Hokkaido Yakiniku is inspired by SHOKICHI's deep-rooted connection to Hokkaido and his vast experience eating at over 500 yakiniku establishments across Japan. This new restaurant aims to explore a previously undefined genre of yakiniku, bringing a fresh perspective to the dining experience.

Embracing "Chaos"

The idea of "Hokkaido Yakiniku" revolves around the traditional eating style observed among locals, where various meats—including Wagyu, pork offal, chicken, Genghis Khan lamb, and seafood—are all grilled simultaneously on a single grill. This philosophy is referred to as "chaos," and it emphasizes the diversity and richness of Hokkaido's local grilling culture. By establishing this unique culinary genre, the restaurant intends to showcase Sapporo's vibrant flavor and dining tradition.

The location was deliberately chosen as it serves as a cornerstone of SHOKICHI’s foundation. It was in Kiyota, during his university years, where he began working at a yakiniku restaurant and fell in love with the charms of this cuisine. The new restaurant symbolizes a heartfelt desire to give back to the community that shaped him and reflect on his early culinary experiences.

A Reunion of Passionate Chefs

Joining SHOKICHI in this culinary journey is Takashi Kiya, the restaurant's executive chef and a long-time friend. Having worked together during their early days, they share a bond forged through their dedication to the art of cooking. With over 20 years of experience in the yakiniku industry, Kiya aims to reinvent and solidify the concept of Hokkaido Yakiniku alongside SHOKICHI.

SHOKICHI expresses his emotions about returning to Kiyota, stating how meaningful it is to open a restaurant with Kiya, reminiscing about the days spent sharpening their culinary skills together. He emphasizes the importance of respecting life, culture, and the community while aiming to offer a welcoming and accessible yakiniku experience for everyone. His excitement for sharing this slice of Hokkaido love with patrons is palpable.

On the other hand, Kiya reflects on his early days when the prospect of working in a yakiniku restaurant filled him with enthusiasm and learning. He credits the experiences and friendships formed in Kiyota as the foundation for his successful career. With a commitment to fostering love for yakiniku and Hokkaido, Kiya aims to make the restaurant an inclusive space for patrons and community members alike.

Profiles of the Visionaries

- EXILE SHOKICHI:

Born in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, SHOKICHI, 40, is a prominent member of EXILE and EXILE THE SECOND. His journey in the culinary world began when he worked part-time at a yakiniku restaurant in Kiyota in 2003, which ignited his passion for meat and grilling. He has since established various programs and projects, including breeding the purebred Tajima cattle known as "Yasuharu Beef" and has authored a book about his passion for meat.

- Takashi Kiya:

Hailing from Sapporo's Kiyota ward, Kiya, 39, partnered with SHOKICHI in their early days at the same restaurant. His career is marked by impressive milestones including managing multiple locations and achieving accolades in the industry. With a fervent dedication to sharing his love for yakiniku, Kiya is ready to make a significant impact at Hokkaido Yakiniku Yagien.

Restaurant Overview

- Name: Hokkaido Yakiniku Yagien
- Address: 1-1, Kitano 7-jo, Kiyota Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 004-0867
- Opening Date: Scheduled for early March 2026
- Operated by: LDH Kitchen

The anticipation surrounding Hokkaido Yakiniku Yagien highlights a new chapter in the culinary landscapes of Sapporo, promising unforgettable experiences to meat lovers from near and far.