I share soulful Japanese home cooking in London—beyond sushi—through private dining, catering, and hands-on cooking experiences.

Yoshiko Iwasawa

I bring the warmth of Japanese comfort food to your table in London.

I’m a Japanese chef who finds joy in every kind of Japanese food—not only sushi. Inspired by my grandparents, who ran a Japanese restaurant in central Tokyo, I grew up surrounded by great food and the care that goes into making it.

After moving to the UK 16 years ago, I’ve continued to create food that makes people happy—through market-stall work, catering, private dining, and cooking classes. I love sharing the process as much as the meal, because cooking together is one of my favorite ways to connect.

Let’s plan your meal

Cooking is my life. Good food means everything to me, and I truly believe cooking together is the best way of communication.

I cook with heart, tradition, and a focus on what makes Japanese food truly shine.

I cook to connect people

Cooking is my life, and I care deeply about how good food can make people happy. I especially love creating experiences where we cook together, because that shared time becomes the best kind of communication.

I learned in my grandparents’ kitchen

I learned to cook from my grandparents in their kitchen, watching them turn simple ingredients into something magical. That early training shaped how I cook today—rooted in tradition, detail, and genuine love for the craft.

I build flavor from the stock up

My secret in the kitchen is my stock. For me, Japanese cooking is all about a great stock—it’s not just soy sauce and wasabi.

Yoshiko’s Menus

I offer Japanese menus designed for sharing—ranging from sushi-making parties to Tokyo street-food nights—with dishes that highlight thoughtful technique, comforting flavors, and the power of a great stock.

Request my menus

Reviews

Yoshiko was amazing, she was on time, her food was delicious, and very adaptable. We had a great date night!

Constance Courtenay

We had an amazing time with Yoshiko, the food was absolutely delicious, a true culinary experience we won't forget anytime soon! Can't recommend her enough.

Charles Lienard

Wonderful food Was super happy with everything

Fiona Allen

Yoshiko was amazing from start to finish. Incredibly polite and her attention to detail was amazing. Food came out on time and she explained what each dish was. The food itself tasted amazing and last of all she left the kitchen cleaner than what she had originally found it! Would definitely recommend her for a lovely night.

Humzha Memon

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a private chef experience with Chef Yoshiko cost?

The average menu price for Chef Yoshiko is 85 GBP per person. Final pricing may vary depending on the menu, number of guests, and event details.

What type of cuisine does Chef Yoshiko cook?

Chef Yoshiko offers Japanese cuisine for private dining experiences.

Where does Chef Yoshiko offer private chef services?

Chef Yoshiko offers private chef services in GB.

Which occasions can I book Chef Yoshiko for?

You can book Chef Yoshiko for Birthday, Romantic night and Foodie adventure, depending on availability and the event details.

How do I book this private chef experience?

Choose a menu, share your event details, and the Take a Chef team will help confirm the experience with the chef.

I’d love to cook for you—get in touch to plan your event.

[email protected]
+44 07511712202

Elm Grove, London NW2 3AE, UK

Chef Yoshiko Iwasawa