Ootoya launches ‘Aijomeshi’ menu supervised by Aki

Model and culinary expert Aki has partnered with the Japanese restaurant chain Ootoya to launch a limited-time menu project titled ‘Aijomeshi’ (Love Meals). The project, which aims to emphasize the ‘emotional value’ of food, features two specially supervised dishes: ‘Salt-Koji Pork with Pickled Chinese Cabbage’ and ‘Summer Japanese-style Taco Rice.’

At a promotional event in Tokyo, Aki shared her personal connection to the chain, noting that she frequently visited Ootoya to support her two sons while they lived in baseball dormitories. She also discussed her family’s tradition of eating red rice and grilled sea bream before important matches to bring good luck.

Former Nadeshiko Japan football star Homare Sawa attended the event as a guest, discussing the importance of food in supporting family members. The ‘Aijomeshi’ menu is scheduled to be available at Ootoya locations nationwide from August 14 to September 30.