Lexus takes pride in embracing renowned chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Shota Nakajima into its esteemed team of Lexus Culinary Masters. Nakajima’s freshly assumed role involves being an ambassador to the brand, curating exceptional experiences and magnifying Lexus core values of innovation, omotenashi, and master craftsmanship.
Under the apprenticeship of Michelin Star-rated Chef Yasuhiko Sakamoto in Osaka, Japan at 18, Chef Nakajima aspired to bring his mentor’s style of hospitality and Japanese cuisine back to his hometown of Seattle, WA. Merging his profound expertise with his distinct viewpoint and innovative applications, he materialized his dream at 25 with the launch of his restaurant, Adana, in Capital Hill. By early 2020, Nakajima introduced Taku, featuring karaage, Japanese fried chicken, and later Kobo Pizza in 2022, presenting rectangular pies inspired by Detroit-style pizzas with Japanese influence.
Kevin Higgins, Lexus’ general manager of marketing, commented, “By expertly encapsulating the traditional flavors of our Japanese heritage in contemporary dishes, Chef Nakajima is a fantastic addition to the Lexus family. We are excited to share his dedication to tradition and culinary innovation with our entire community and anticipate his future contributions to the Culinary Masters program.”
Chef Nakajima has been honored with three-time James Beard Award semi-finalist titles, the ‘Young Guns’ award from Eater, and inclusion in Zagat‘s ‘30 Under 30’ chef list, among other recognitions. He participated in Season 18 of Bravo’s Top Chef, securing a position as a top three finalist, and has made appearances on the Food Network’s Iron Chef Gauntlet, Beat Bobby Flay, and Tournament of Champions.
Expressing his gratitude, Chef Nakajima stated, “I am privileged to be acknowledged alongside a distinguished team of culinary pioneers. I am eager to deepen my association with the Lexus brand and create exceptional experiences for its community.”
As a Lexus Culinary Master, Nakajima will collaborate with the brand on promotional endeavors and food and wine gatherings. In September 2023, before his official induction to the team, Nakajima represented the brand at the Hamburger Hop event during the prominent food festival, Chicago Gourmet, and secured the People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards for his delectable Osaka Burger.
Presently, the Lexus Culinary Masters group features some of the nation’s most esteemed chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary personalities. Nakajima joins James Beard Award-winning chefs Kwame Onwuachi, Michelle Bernstein, Stephanie Izard, Jon Shook, and Vinny Dotolo; Michelin star-awarded chefs Ludo Lefebvre and Carlo Mirarchi; celebrated sommelier Carlton McCoy; and the revered “father of Southern Cuisine” Dean Fearing in this elite circle.
Image Source: Shota Nakajima @ Instagram
