Celebrate the First Japanese Winner at the Napoli Pizza Contest with a Special Event in Kagoshima

Experience Authentic Napoli Pizza at Kagoshima’s Special Event

Kagoshima's TO THE HERBS by Trattoria TAVOLA is set to host a remarkable event that food lovers won't want to miss. From February 21 to 23, 2026, this dining hotspot will showcase the exceptional pizzas crafted by Ken Imai, the first Japanese cook to win a prize at the prestigious Naples Pizza Competition. This three-day fair, named the 'Imai Ken Napoli Pizza Fair,' promises to be a celebration of culinary excellence.

The relationship between Kagoshima and Naples started in 1960, brought together by their stunning landscapes featuring both sea and volcanoes—Kagoshima with Sakurajima and Naples with Mount Vesuvius. This unique connection highlights a shared appreciation for rich natural resources, an advantage that enables Kagoshima to supply a variety of fresh seafood and high-quality local pork, perfect for this pizza-focused event.

The event menu features a carefully curated selection of Kagoshima ingredients combined with the techniques and passion Imai developed in Naples. Diners can expect to indulge in a delightful array of dishes:

- Cold appetizer: Mortadella salad
- Warm appetizer: Assorted seafood and vegetable fritto misto from Kagoshima
- Pasta: Frutti di mare (seafood linguine)
- Choice of pizza: Pizza Presidente, Pizza Fritta, Margherita, Margherita Filet
- Main dish: Porchetta made from Kagoshima pork

Tickets for this culinary affair start at 3,500 yen and can be reserved beginning February 1, 2026.

Ken Imai has made a name for himself as a master pizzaiolo. After starting his culinary journey at a young age under the guidance of his father, he pivoted to specialize in pizza at the age of 27. He moved to Italy in 2013 and honed his skills at 'La Figlia del Presidente' in Naples, earning the trust of the restaurant's owner, Maria. His hard work culminated in the opening of the first Japanese branch in 2016. Imai's crowning achievement came in 2019 when he won the Classic Margherita category at the 5th Trofeo Pulcinella pizza competition, becoming the first Japanese winner in the contest's history.

This event not only provides an opportunity to taste award-winning pizza but also a chance to learn more about the story behind the chef and his dedication to sharing the flavors of Naples with the world. Guests can look forward to a welcoming atmosphere in a beautiful setting featuring 94 seats, making it the perfect spot for friends and family gatherings.

Don’t miss out on the chance to savor the authentic pizzas crafted by Ken Imai. Join us at TO THE HERBS by Trattoria TAVOLA in Kagoshima and enjoy a true taste of Napoli right in Japan’s southernmost city.

Event Details

- Event Name: Imai Ken Napoli Pizza Fair
- Location: TO THE HERBS by Trattoria TAVOLA Kagoshima
- Event Dates: February 21-23, 2026
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM / 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Reservations Start: February 1, 2026
- Contact: 099-285-2220
- Reservations can also be made online via: Hot Pepper

Experience the art of pizza making and the great flavors of Kagoshima in a celebration of Ken Imai's journey and achievements. We can’t wait to welcome you to an unforgettable culinary event!