Key points
- The Okura Prestige Bangkok has opened a new chapter for its acclaimed Japanese restaurant, Yamazato, with the appointment of Chef Masanori Tomikawa as Executive Japanese Chef.
- At Yamazato Bangkok, located on the 24th floor of The Okura Prestige Bangkok at Park Ventures Ecoplex on Wireless Road, Chef Tomikawa will focus on the restaurant’s established philosophy of seasonality, precision, and refined presentation.
- His combination of technical experience, international leadership, and commitment to seasonal Japanese cooking gives the Bangkok restaurant an opportunity to build upon its existing identity while introducing guests to the perspective of a chef shaped by more than 40 years within Okura’s kitchens.
The Okura Prestige Bangkok has opened a new chapter for its acclaimed Japanese restaurant, Yamazato, with the appointment of Chef Masanori Tomikawa as Executive Japanese Chef. Taking up the position on September 1, 2026, the veteran chef arrives in Bangkok with more than four decades of experience within Okura Hotels & Resorts and an extensive background in traditional Japanese cuisine.
Image Credit: The Okura Prestige Bangkok
Chef Tomikawa’s career has taken him from Tokyo to Amsterdam and now Bangkok, giving Yamazato an experienced culinary leader whose cooking remains firmly grounded in Japanese tradition. His arrival, as this Bangkok Hotel Chefs news report highlights, is expected to further strengthen the restaurant’s seasonal kaiseki offerings while bringing additional depth to its sushi, sashimi, and other carefully prepared Japanese specialties.
Four Decades of Japanese Culinary Experience
Chef Tomikawa began his Okura career at Hotel Okura Tokyo in 1983 before moving to Hotel Okura Amsterdam. He spent almost two decades working at Yamazato Restaurant there, progressing through the kitchen and eventually becoming Sous Chef.
After returning to Tokyo, he moved back to Amsterdam in 2008 to become Executive Chef of Yamazato. In 2010, he also assumed responsibility as Executive Chef of Japanese Cuisine at the hotel.
His time in Amsterdam was closely associated with one of Okura’s best-known Japanese restaurants. Yamazato Amsterdam, which first received a Michelin star in 2002, has retained Michelin-star recognition continuously since 2008.
Chef Tomikawa’s contribution to Japanese cuisine overseas has also received official recognition. In 2019, Japan’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries appointed him a Goodwill Ambassador for Japanese Cuisine. He subsequently received a ministry commendation in 2024 for his contribution to promoting Japanese food internationally.
Seasonal Kaiseki Takes Center Stage in Bangkok
At Yamazato Bangkok, located on the 24th floor of The Okura Prestige Bangkok at Park Ventures Ecoplex on Wireless Road, Chef Tomikawa will focus on the restaurant’s established philosophy of seasonality, precision, and refined presentation.
Particular attention will remain on kaiseki, the traditional multi-course dining format in which ingredients, textures, preparation techniques, and presentation reflect the changing Japanese seasons. Fresh sashimi and carefully handmade sushi will complement the restaurant’s broader fine-dining experience.
Hotel General Manager Niek Hammer said Chef Tomikawa represents Okura’s emphasis on tradition, meticulous technique, and lifelong dedication to Japanese culinary craftsmanship.
A New Chapter for Yamazato Bangkok
Chef Tomikawa’s appointment connects Yamazato Bangkok more closely with a culinary career developed across Tokyo and Amsterdam. His combination of technical experience, international leadership, and commitment to seasonal Japanese cooking gives the Bangkok restaurant an opportunity to build upon its existing identity while introducing guests to the perspective of a chef shaped by more than 40 years within Okura’s kitchens.
For more on Yamazato Restaurant, visit:
https://www.okurabangkok.com/dining/yamazato
