#Japan #Tokyo #Aomori #Hoshigaoka #Takayuki Yamahashi

A Taste of Aomori: A Special Culinary Journey at Hoshigaoka Restaurant

From June 2 to August 1, 2025, the prestigious Hoshigaoka restaurant located in The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Tokyo, will host a limited-time event titled ‘Aomori Prefecture Ingredient Fair.’ This exclusive dining experience will take place only on weekday evenings, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Aomori, the northernmost region on Honshu Island, renowned for its bountiful natural resources.

This initiative is part of the restaurant's “Culinary Journey” series, which explores seasonal ingredients from various parts of Japan, transforming local produce into exquisite course meals. Chef Takayuki Yamahashi, who will lead the event, visited Aomori himself to gather insights and inspiration from local producers. By engaging directly with the fishermen, farmers, and their rich culinary traditions, he aims to create a menu that not only delight diners but also supports regional industries and revitalizes the local economy.

Guests can look forward to a beautifully curated menu that highlights Aomori’s unique ingredients. Dishes such as the aromatic steamed ‘Tsugaru Strait Rockfish,’ inspired by the traditional local dish ‘Shellfish Miso,’ and a plate featuring seasonal crab and Aomori beef cooked to perfection demonstrate a seamless fusion of authentic Chinese culinary techniques and local flavors.

Chef Yamahashi expresses his philosophy in the kitchen: “Honesty with ingredients is paramount. I believe in visiting the source, verifying it with my own eyes, and listening to producers’ stories. My encounters with the rich gifts from nature in Aomori have deeply inspired me, especially with the ‘Spring Fish’ like the Tsugaru Strait Rockfish and the esteemed ‘Mutsu Bay Hairy Crab.’ I hope to convey the essence of the region through our food at Hoshigaoka.” This commitment reflects not only in taste but also in the narrative behind each dish, promising a culinary experience steeped in the memories of the land.

The culinary journey will unfold over an exquisite eight or nine-course meal, priced at ¥28,462 for the eight-course and ¥32,890 for the nine-course options. Menus may vary based on ingredient availability, but potential offerings include:

• - A delightful bite titled ‘Bite of Happiness from Aomori’
• - Chilled appetizer featuring deep-sea tuna from Aomori
• - Fried scallops with dried scallop essence
• - Steamed Tsugaru Strait Rockfish infused with Shaoxing wine
• - A banquet of local crab paired with high-quality shark fin
• - Flavorful fried ‘Aomori Shamo’ chicken served with burnt white soup
• - Stir-fried Aomori short-horned beef with onions and black pepper
• - Char siu pork from ‘Horozo Pork’ of Yokohama, Aomori, with a fragrant Chinese noodle
• - Dessert made with seasonal ingredients from Aomori, beautifully paired with Chinese tea.

Event Details

• - Period: June 2 (Mon) – August 1 (Fri), 2025 (Weekdays only)
• - Location: Hoshigaoka, 2nd Floor
• - Time: 17:30 - 21:00 (Last Order)
• - Reservations/Inquiry: 03-3503-0871 (Direct line)

With the elegant dishes that incorporate the essence of Aomori’s land and nature, this summer event promises a sumptuous evening perfectly suited for a memorable experience amidst Tokyo’s vibrant dining scene. Do not miss this chance to indulge in the delicacies of Tohoku and relish in an enchanting culinary journey at Hoshigaoka, where every plate tells a story.

Chef Takayuki Yamahashi's Profile: Born in Shimane prefecture in 1978, Chef Yamahashi honed his skills in Yokohama's Chinatown and later studied authentic Chinese cuisine in China. Since 2008, he has served at Hoshigaoka, bringing various culinary accolades to the restaurant, including awards from the Japan Chinese Cuisine Association and a commitment to blending traditional techniques with contemporary elements.

About Hoshigaoka Restaurant

Renowned for its dynamic and delicate Chinese dishes, Hoshigaoka creates innovative plates that feature high-end ingredients like shark fin, making dining an extraordinary experience. The restaurant ensures privacy and has seven private rooms suitable for both business and personal occasions.

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu offers 251 guest rooms, including 14 suites, a variety of dining options, and event halls, creating an unparalleled experience for guests seeking relaxation and culinary excellence in a chic environment, acclaimed by Forbes Travel Guide with five consecutive stars.