Decorative Sushi Class
Decorative Sushi Class
Take your sushi-making skills beyond traditional rolls and discover the art of creating beautiful, eye-catching sushi that's guaranteed to impress.
Perfect for parties, celebrations and special occasions, this hands-on class teaches a collection of decorative sushi that combine authentic Japanese techniques with stunning presentation.
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The class begins with simple designs before gradually introducing more advanced techniques. Guided step by step by Japanese chef Akemi Yokoyama, you will build your skills and confidence throughout the session.
The highlight of the class is **Shikai-Maki**, an extraordinary geometric sushi roll that reveals a beautiful stained-glass pattern when sliced. Although it looks incredibly intricate, Akemi's clear, easy-to-follow instruction will show you exactly how to create it yourself.
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During the class, you will learn how to:
• Wash, cook and season perfect sushi rice
• Make paper-thin Japanese omelettes for decorative sushi
• Create Temari-zushi (hand-shaped bite-sized sushi)
• Make decorative Inari-zushi filled with colourful toppings
• Prepare Chakin-zushi, delicate omelette parcels tied with chive ribbons
• Make spectacular Shikai-Maki with its striking geometric design
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At the end of the class, you will enjoy the decorative sushi you have created, accompanied by a glass of refreshment.
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This class is perfect for anyone looking to expand their sushi repertoire and create impressive sushi for entertaining family and friends.
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DIETARY REQUIREMENTS & ALLERGIES
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We are happy to accommodate dietary requirements where possible, provided we receive at least 14 days' notice before the class.
If you have any questions regarding allergies or other dietary requirements, please don't hesitate to get in touch before booking.
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Instructor
Akemi Yokoyama
Akemi Yokoyama is a highly respected Japanese food specialist, chef, presenter, writer, and educator based in London. Her deep understanding of Japanese food provenance stems from her upbringing in Hokkaido, where, under her father's guidance, she spent her childhood foraging, fishing, and developing a profound appreciation for Japan's seasonal ingredients and culinary traditions.
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As Principal of Sozai Cooking School, Akemi leads acclaimed Japanese cookery classes that have earned praise from UK national media. Her expertise has been featured on major television and radio programmes, including Channel 4's 'Sunday Brunch', CBBC's 'Saturday Mash-Up,' BBC Radio 4's 'Front Row,' and Channel 5's 'Faking It!', where she appeared as a panel judge identifying the fake sushi chef. Alongside teaching, she is also a sought-after private chef, creating authentic and refined Japanese dining experiences.
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A passionate ambassador for Japanese food culture, Akemi regularly collaborates with Japanese government organisations and industry partners to promote washoku, sake, and traditional Japanese culinary techniques throughout the UK and Europe. She has a particular passion for Japanese fermentation, producing a wide range of traditional Japanese seasonings at home—including multiple styles of miso, shoyu-based condiments, and other fermented foods—while continually researching and practising time-honoured fermentation and preservation techniques.
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Combining historical insight, technical expertise, and engaging storytelling, Akemi brings Japanese cuisine to life for both professionals and home cooks alike. Her mission is to preserve and share the depth, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of Japan's culinary heritage with audiences around the world.
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Professional Affiliations & Qualifications
* Committee Member, Japanese Culinary Academy EU
* Certified Miso Sommelier, Japan
* Certified Koji Making Instructor, The Koji Academy, Japan
* International Wine Challenge (IWC) Sake Judge
* Culinary Committee Member, British Sake Association
The masterclass is excellent in so many ways I don't know where to start! A maximum of 5 or 6 students in an informal kitchen setting means it is very personal, with lots of time to ask questions and get help; a fantastic chef who guides you through every step of filleting fish, making the all-important rice, slicing the fish, preparing condiments and assembling each piece; plus an abundance of background knowledge, experience and culture.
All in all, a fantastic course for beginners like me, or experienced chefs looking to expand their horizons.
Akemi was fantastic - thank you for a great afternoon!!
A really brilliant class with Akemi - learnt to so much through hands on experience and expert tuition. Highly recommended!
I am very happy to have attended this workshop. Ideal for begginers that want to learn nerikiri modeling. Personnel was very sweet and helpful. All materials were available. If you like nerikiri this is a good place to start!