'Our college will contribute to the rich London food culture'

Masaru Watanabe is hoping the opening of Tokyo College of Sushi & Washoku London will help continue to “introduce authentic Japanese food and culture all over the world”.

Last week saw around 100 attendees at the grand opening event of the venue in White City Place in west London, including Michelin-starred chef Endo Kazutoshi.

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Guests were treated to some Japanese snacks, including sushi from the college’s talented group of chefs. That included Miguel Bertolo, owing to the partnership with ACPP, a culinary school in Lisbon.

The college offers a variety of courses from six months to one day sessions, from young aspiring chefs, specialised courses for professionals, or home cooks looking to learn more about Japanese cuisine.

Teaching washoku, which translates as Japanese cuisine, as well as food culture history, food and hygiene and developing a sense of taste for Japanese food is all part of the longer course.

There are exams at the end of the six months, to earn Japanese government-approved certification.

Works were completed on the venue in just 12 weeks, having started in June of this year.

Masaru, principal at the college, said: “Our mission is simple, introducing authentic Japanese food and culture all over the world.

“We are the first authentic, government-authorised Japanese cookery college outside of Japan.

“We are going to teach all about making sushi, from the start of the rice preparation and fish or meat preparation.”

Rinri Mizuno, CEO of the company, added: “35 years ago I was a student in London, studying politics. I would never have thought I would return to London to establish a sushi school.

“I had many memories of sushi when I was a boy in Japan. I really believe our college will contribute to the rich London food culture and also give opportunities for everybody to experience authentic, innovative, healthy and tasty sushi and washoku.

“We are so excited to offer the best professional education to aspiring future sushi chefs.”