#Japan #Tokyo #Culinary Innovators #Food Trend #Cookpad

Cookpad's Food Trend Awards 2025: Shaping New Culinary Cultures

On November 26, 2025, Cookpad Inc., which operates the well-known recipe service, announced its inaugural Food Trend Awards, titled 'This Year's Face.' This new award aims to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to cultivating new culinary cultures in home cooking. This year’s ceremony celebrated four remarkable individuals, each recognized for their unique impact on Japanese culinary practices.

The Food Trend Awards, held annually by Cookpad, aims to promote the joy of home cooking and the diversity of food culture. The selections are based on data from recipe searches, user access trends, and the Cookpad News media platform. The new award, 'This Year's Face,' is a step forward in honoring those who are creating new food cultures at home.

Meet the Award Winners

Hideyuki Ishigami / Founder of Nanpo Marutan (薬膳スープ春雨専門店)

As a groundbreaking creator in the realm of spiced hot soup, Hideyuki Ishigami offers a diverse menu that includes over 30 medicinal spices in his dishes. His focus on culinary creativity has turned nanpo marutan from a youthful food trend into a widespread culinary sensation.

With 19 years dedicated to spreading the love for spicy soup, Ishigami has provided a new taste experience by introducing the unique sensation of Sichuan peppercorns. The development of his online product 'Home Chikapu' allows families to replicate the dining experience at home, helping to create a spice culture across Japan.

Akari Hasegawa / Culinary Artist and Nutritional Specialist

Akari Hasegawa has gained notable attention for her innovative dishes, including her viral 'Butter-Basted Hamburgers,' which garnered over 220 million impressions. Her philosophy centers around reemphasizing the value of cooking as an experience rather than a chore.

By advocating for a lifestyle deeply integrated with cooking, Hasegawa addresses the shift away from just quick and simple meals. Through platforms like YouTube and podcasts, she shares insights into mindful cooking, helping to redefine contemporary culinary practices in Japanese households.

Riyoko / Culinary Creator

Riyoko has played a pivotal role in popularizing steamed dishes in the home cooking sphere. Her initiatives led to a 9.3-fold increase in search queries for steaming methods on Cookpad over two years, promoting ease and accessibility in kitchen practices.

She has introduced the innovative concept of 'failure-free cooking,' easing the anxiety many face in the kitchen. Her recipes stress the therapeutic aspects of cooking, transforming it into a comforting and enjoyable experience for many home chefs.

Yocchi / Ambassador and Volume Cooking Expert

In the face of rising food prices, Yocchi has become a beacon of economical yet nutritious cooking through her 'volume cooking' principles. With her vast following, she supports families during challenging economic times by advocating for dishes that maximize flavor and satisfaction without breaking the bank.

Her signature 'large portion meals' employ affordable ingredients like sprouts and potatoes, making satisfying meals possible for those on a budget.

A New Era of Home Cooking Culture

The 2025 winners have created a lasting impact on Japanese home cooking, driving a shift towards cultural appreciation within the kitchen. They show that cultivating culinary practices requires patience, with some dedicating upwards of 19 years to reshape food culture in Japan. Their recognition is not just about current trends but signifies a deeper movement towards rich family experiences tied to cooking.

As emphasized by Cookpad’s public relations chief, Takako Kotake, the mission of these awardees is about altering food customs from a short-lived fad mindset to a sustainable lifestyle, where flavor, experience, and emotional connection play pivotal roles. This commitment to emotional richness goes beyond mere efficiency or quick meals; it brings heart and warmth back to the dinner table.

Cooking Community Events

Looking ahead, Cookpad plans to further elevate the cooking experience by launching the 'Let's Cook Together Community' in January 2026. This initiative will feature expert-led cooking sessions with award winners and opportunities for participants to share their culinary creations in a supportive environment, ensuring that the passion for cooking continues to grow and evolve.

With the Food Trend Awards, Cookpad reaffirms its commitment to enhancing daily culinary experiences in households across Japan while celebrating those who shape its future.