


Akemi Yokoyama
Akemi Yokoyama is a highly respected Japanese food specialist, chef, presenter, writer, and educator based in London. Her deep knowledge of Japanese food provenance stems from her father’s influence, having grown up foraging and fishing across the island of Hokkaido during her childhood.
As Principal of Sozai Cooking School, she leads acclaimed Japanese cookery classes, earning praise from UK national media. Her expertise has also been featured on major TV and radio programs, including Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, CBBC’s Saturday Mash-Up, and BBC Radio 4’s Front Row. Most recently, she appeared on Channel 5's Faking It as a panel judge to spot the fake sushi chef.
In addition to teaching, she is a sought-after private chef, known for creating authentic and refined Japanese dining experiences.
A passionate advocate for Japanese food culture, Akemi frequently collaborates with Japanese government-related organisations and projects to promote washoku and sake across the UK and Europe. Her culinary expertise extends to Japanese fermentation, crafting a variety of miso at home and exploring traditional preservation techniques.
With a unique ability to blend historical knowledge, technical skill, and engaging storytelling, Akemi is a dynamic force in the world of Japanese cuisine, ensuring its traditions continue to thrive on an international stage.
Member of Japanese Culinary Academy, UK
Certified miso sommelier, Japan
Certified koji making instructor, The Koji Academy, Japan
International Wine Challenge Sake Judge
British Sake Association Culinary Committee
Upcoming lessons

**If you make the sushi for the first time or want to get the basics right,...

**If you love ramen and want to learn how to make the authentic ramen from...

*Price indicated per person is a private class for 6 people
Bring the...

*Price indicated per person is "a private class for 9 people"
Bring...
We had an amazing workshop with Akemi, where we learned about the fascinating history of sushi and even got to make our own party sushi! 🍣
It was such an interactive session — we could ask as many questions as we wanted about sushi techniques, fishmongers, ingredients, and Japanese culture.
Absolutely 100% recommend this experience! 🙌
A lovely intimate ramen cooking class. Our host Akemi was very friendly and knowledgable while running the class. We went through every stage of making a ramen and the end result was delicious. The cherry on top being a goodie bag to take home!
Thanks for the great time