In a momentous occasion for both the culinary and entertainment worlds, Okura Tadayoshi, a member of the popular group SUPER EIGHT, made headlines on April 21, 2025, by appearing alongside his father, Tadashi Okura, at the press conference celebrating the 40th anniversary of the renowned izakaya chain, Torikizoku. This event marked the first time the father-son duo publicly collaborated, much to the delight of fans and media alike.
During the press conference held in Tokyo, Tadayoshi, who is 39 years old, expressed his excitement, stating, "I am very happy to be involved in the 40th anniversary of Torikizoku in the year I also turn 40." His father, Tadashi Okura, the founder of Torikizoku, reflected on their unique relationship, saying, "I have always watched my son as a talent on television, but now, seeing him as both my son and a talent in this collaboration is a complex feeling for me." The event was filled with light-hearted banter, showcasing their strong familial bond.
Torikizoku, known for its uniform pricing and delicious yakitori, was founded on May 1, 1985, in Higashi-Osaka City. Interestingly, Tadayoshi was born just 16 days later, making this collaboration particularly special as they both celebrate significant milestones this year. The izakaya chain has grown tremendously, now boasting over 650 locations across Japan and even expanding internationally.
As part of the anniversary celebration, a limited-edition menu supervised by Tadayoshi will be introduced starting May 1, 2025. The menu features two innovative dishes: "Kushi Nagetto Green," which includes eight skewers of chicken nuggets topped with seaweed salt, and "Nira Tama Green," a delightful combination of grilled chicken skewers, leeks, and a soft-boiled egg. Each dish will be offered in a limited quantity of one million servings, priced at an affordable 390 yen including tax. This pricing strategy aims to make the dishes accessible to a wide audience, particularly younger customers.
The collaboration was sparked by a social media interaction where Tadayoshi suggested reviving the original Torikizoku store, which was closed in 2008. His tweet garnered over two million interactions, highlighting the public's interest and nostalgia for the brand. Tadashi Okura shared his thoughts on this revival, recalling the challenges the original store faced, including financial struggles. He mentioned, "I often worried if I was leading my family to hardship, especially when the store was consistently in the red."
In addition to the menu, the press conference also unveiled plans for a special video series featuring the father-son duo. These videos will explore their memories and experiences related to Torikizoku, offering fans a deeper insight into their familial and professional relationship. The first video, titled "The Past," will launch on the Torikizoku app on May 1, 2025, at 9:00 AM, followed by a second installment discussing their hopes for the future.
Fans have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for the collaboration, with many taking to social media to share their excitement. Comments such as, "Finally, the collaboration between Torikizoku and Okura Tadayoshi is happening!" and "I became a fan of Okura Tadayoshi and started visiting Torikizoku because of him!" illustrate the positive reception of this partnership.
Moreover, to commemorate the 40th anniversary, Torikizoku will also re-open its first store, located in Tsurumi-cho, Higashi-Osaka City, for a limited time. This store holds sentimental value for both Tadayoshi and his father, as it represents the humble beginnings of the now-thriving chain. The re-opening is scheduled for May 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
As part of the anniversary festivities, Torikizoku will also launch a campaign to give away exclusive merchandise featuring Tadayoshi's handwritten messages. Customers who order the limited-edition menu items can participate in the campaign by sharing photos on social media, further engaging fans in this celebratory event.
The collaboration between Okura Tadayoshi and Torikizoku is not just a business venture; it symbolizes the intertwining of family legacy and culinary tradition. As Tadashi Okura noted, "It is a joy as a parent to see this collaboration come to fruition in a year that is significant for both of us." This partnership is expected to resonate with customers and fans, creating a sense of nostalgia and excitement as they celebrate 40 years of Torikizoku.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Okura Tadayoshi and Torikizoku not only highlights the achievements of a beloved restaurant chain but also showcases the enduring bond between father and son. As they embark on this journey together, it’s clear that both the culinary and entertainment communities will eagerly anticipate what’s next for this dynamic duo.
