#Japan #Tokyo #LDH kitchen #Yakitori Culture #TEAM Hii-re

TEAM Hii-re: Pioneering a Global Yakitori Community

Japan is known for its rich culinary traditions, and among them, yakitori holds a special place. As a delicate blend of precise grilling techniques, exceptional ingredient selection, and passionate craftsmanship, yakitori is a unique culinary art. However, its profound value isn't yet fully recognized globally. With the advent of TEAM Hii-re, a community aimed at promoting yakitori culture internationally, this is set to change.

Founded by LDH Kitchen, led by CEO Hiroyuki Suzuki, and supported by Yoshiteru Ikegawa, the chef behind the prestigious Michelin-starred yakitori restaurant Torishiki in Meguro, TEAM Hii-re aspires to elevate and preserve the yakitori culture. The initiative officially launched in December 2025 and aims to create a vibrant platform for enthusiasts worldwide, where they can meet, share their aspirations, and refine their techniques in a supportive environment.

A Platform for Global Enthusiasm

Under the motto of “Spreading Yakitori Culture Across the Globe,” the TEAM Hii-re website serves as a community hub. It features interviews, reports on the growth of yakitori culture both domestically and internationally, and articles that allow members to share their experiences and beliefs. The first topic highlights the success of “Sumibiyaki Arashi,” a newly opened yakitori restaurant in Vancouver. Just months after its launch in March 2025, the restaurant earned a Michelin star, showcasing to the world the potential of yakitori even beyond its Japanese roots.

The Origin of TEAM Hii-re

The creation of TEAM Hii-re was born from the desire to ensure that yakitori remains a living culture, shared among artisans and food lovers alike. Chef Ikegawa's vision for this community revolves around the idea that sharing not just techniques but also respect for the craft and the ingredients is pivotal. It seeks to cultivate connections between practitioners, fostering an environment where they can learn and grow together.

Artisans can immerse themselves in a variety of topics, which include:

• - The Journey of Craftsmanship: Articles that narrate the personal journeys of yakitori artisans and their relentless pursuit of excellence.
• - Cultural Exchange Reports: Insightful writings that document the expansion and adaptation of yakitori culture around the world.
• - Shared Experiences: A section for members to share their own stories, enriching the community’s collective knowledge.
• - Event Listings and Information: Up-to-date information about upcoming events, workshops, and gatherings.

The philosophy of TEAM Hii-re is that through interaction and collaboration, the future of yakitori will flourish, as knowledge and passion are passed down through generations.

Spotlight on Sumibiyaki Arashi

In its first initiative, TEAM Hii-re presents an interview with Peter Ho, the mind behind Sumibiyaki Arashi. Since its inception in Vancouver, the restaurant has captivated food enthusiasts and culinary professionals alike. On October 2025, just a few months after opening, it earned a Michelin star, and its recognition continued with an 8th place in the Air Canada Best New Restaurants 2025 ranking in November.

Peter's insights into the passion behind his yakitori creations and his interpretation of the cultural significance of this cuisine have resonated deeply with TEAM Hii-re's mission. The full interview, packed with anecdotes of dedication and expertise, provides a window into how the essence of Japanese yakitori finds itself in a foreign land, thriving and evolving.

A Two-Way Communication Structure

Another noteworthy feature of the TEAM Hii-re website is its interactive design, facilitating open lines of dialogue between users and information providers. By incorporating comment sections and accommodating content suggestions, the website aims to foster a communicative community rather than a one-way street of information dissemination. This structure is intended to organically build relationships among artisans and enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion

TEAM Hii-re aspires to be a beacon of hope for yakitori enthusiasts eager to dive deeper into this culinary art. By weaving together the past, present, and future of yakitori, the community aims to nourish and expand its culture globally. Join us on this exciting journey and become a part of the story that elevates yakitori for future generations.

For more updates on TEAM Hii-re and at the forefront of yakitori culture, visit our official website at TEAM火入れ. Follow us on Instagram to stay in touch: TEAM火入れ Instagram.