Arab News Japan

Mr. TANIUCHI Shinji is the Managing Director and Partner of Bentoya Kitchen LLC & Gourmet-Ya Trading, and has prospered in offering an authentic taste of Japan in the UAE. 

Mr. TANIUCHI Shinji’s restaurant Betoya Kitchen, and gourmet shop both offer top quality food and products that capture the quintessence of Japanese cuisine and culture.

At Bentoya, customers can enjoy a range of sushi, sashimi, donburi, soba, udon and bento, other products like Japanese seasonings, sauces, sweets and curries can be found at neighbouring Gourmet-ya.

“Bentoya has build its success on putting the freshest food on the table. Our fish is sourced locally on a daily bases so that we serve the best quality of Sashimi and hence sushi to our customers. Also, our Noodles is made in house using the best flour which means no additives nor preservatives is added,” he said.

Mr. TANIUCHI continued by sharing how Gourmet-ya started because of an influx of requests from the Japanese community in Dubai to offer traditional, and authentic products.  

The restaurant founder’s success can also be attributed to his understanding of how Japanese cuisine fits into the UAE food scene.

“Japanese Food is recognised as healthy food and it contributes to life longevity. UAE resident started to have Japanese Food and ingredient as part of their diet,” he said.

Mr. TANIUCHI also touched on the prominence of Japanese food  at hotels in the UAE, highlighting its popularity in the region.

Mr. TANIUCHI also spoke with Arab News Japan about the “Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador” certification that was presented to him on Feb.14 at the Consulate General of Japan in Dubai.

“I feel honoured and privileged to be awarded this prestigious title. This title is a product of 26 years of experience in Dubai where I have been seeing Dubai and the UAE transform into Diamond of the Crown of the world,” he said.

He continued by reflecting on his many experiences interacting with the Consul-General Mr. SEKIGUCHI, prior to receiving his certification.

“His Excellency Mr. Sekiguchi has arrived 7 months ago and I have met him on couple of occasions. We have discussed how Dubai evolved to be where it is now. He expressed his fascination of the development of Dubai and he mentioned he is looking forward to continuing building the strong relationship between Japan and UAE,” he told Arab News Japan.

Mr. TANIUCHI also mentioned that the Consul-General would look to assist in matters relating to EXPO 2020.

Read more: Consul-General of Japan in Dubai presents certification to Japanese restaurant founder