Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo's Airi Sato Wins First Place in the 44th French Cuisine Apprentice Chef Competition

Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo; General Manager: Chihiro Tomohiko) is pleased to announce that Airi Sato, a chef from the restaurants 'Il Teatro' and 'The Bistro,' has achieved the top honor in the 44th French Cuisine Apprentice Chef Selection Competition, held on Saturday, June 6, at Musashino Culinary Professional School.

This competition is organized by the Japan Chapter of Club Prosper Montagne, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting French culinary culture. It targets young chefs under the age of 25 with less than four years of cooking experience, evaluating their fundamental techniques and creative expression.

This year, 40 participants from culinary schools, hotels, and restaurants across Japan competed by preparing three required dishes: fish, meat, and dessert. Airi Sato received top marks across all evaluation categories—including preparation methods, kitchen equipment handling, plating, and taste—from a panel of renowned chefs active in Japan’s culinary scene.

◇Airi Sato – Profile

Name: Airi Sato (Sato Airi)

Affiliation: Western Restaurant Team, Il Teatro / The Bistro

Joined: 2024

Background: Graduate of Oda Culinary Arts School

Comment: I am deeply honored to receive such a prestigious award. I believe this achievement is the result of the continuous guidance from our Executive Chef, as well as the warm support from my seniors and colleagues. Through repeated practice, I not only improved my technical skills but also reaffirmed the importance of my attitude toward cooking and the value of teamwork. I will continue to cherish the philosophy I learned upon joining—cooking while imagining the faces and feelings of those who will eat my dishes—and dedicate my heart to every plate to bring smiles and感动 to our guests.

◇Comment from Masayuki Todo, Executive Chef, Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo

I believe her personal dedication was the most important factor. I had the privilege of observing her closely as she practiced repeatedly, recognizing her own shortcomings in thinking and technique, and gradually overcoming each challenge over the past year.

Witnessing her efforts, I was reminded once again that true skill is acquired by asking 'Why?'

At Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo, we strive to deliver exceptional hospitality through both cuisine and service, building upon the unique value of our garden setting. This award reflects the technical excellence of our young chefs, who train diligently every day, as well as our hotel’s commitment to nurturing the next generation. Moving forward, we will continue to enhance our culinary techniques and service quality through various competitions and challenges, aiming to become a hotel that provides even greater satisfaction to our guests.

About Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo

Opened in 1952, Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo is a tranquil retreat nestled within a forest-like garden in the heart of Tokyo.

The garden’s centerpiece, the three-storied pagoda 'Entsuukaku,' was relocated from Higashi-Hiroshima in 1925 and will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025. Designated as a Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property, it is one of Tokyo’s three ancient pagodas.

The garden also features breathtaking seasonal scenery and 'Tokyo Unkai,' Japan’s largest mist garden display, which has received numerous awards, including the 2025 Good Design Award. The hotel offers 265 guest rooms with panoramic city or garden views, eight restaurants, a spa, and 38 banquet halls. Guests can enjoy seasonal highlights such as cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and fireflies, creating unforgettable moments throughout the year.

Additionally, the hotel has earned a 4-Star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide and is a member of the L.V.X. Collection by Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

About Fujita Kanko

Fujita Kanko Co., Ltd. pioneered Japan’s tourism industry, opening Hakone Yugakukan in 1948 and Tachibana Sanso (now Hotel Tachibana Sanso Tokyo) in 1952, before officially establishing the company in 1955. By maximizing the use of corporate assets such as human resources and cultural properties, the company provides restful spaces and warm hospitality to more guests. Through unique content and business development, it aims to deliver new value that supports customers throughout their life cycles and lifestyles, contributing to the realization of a rich and fulfilling society.

Official Website: https://www.fujita-kanko.co.jp/

Brand Movie Now Available: https://www.fujita-kanko.co.jp/sub/fkmovie