![zai](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_t_zai.png)
![zai image](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_img_zai.jpg)
I believe in the finest ingredients.
As a chef, I listen to the ingredients and
allow the natural flavors to shine.
My mission, to use my dishes to take my customers
on a culinary journey through Japanese history and culture,
while appreciating the passion of the producers.
![mizu](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_t_mizu.png)
![mizu image](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_img_mizu.jpg)
Everything begins with water.
I believe it is one of the most important ingredients.
Water is the source of life and is elementary in my dishes.
![zen](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_t_sora.png)
![sora image](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_img_sora.jpg)
My cooking philosophy is based on the Japanese "ZEN" spirit.
I respect traditional Japanese cultures, customs and skills and
am always thankful the preciousness of the life of ingredients.
![hito](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_t_hito.png)
![hito image](http://www.hal-yamashita.com/en/wp-content/themes/halyamashita/library/images/p_img_hito.jpg)
I consider that the connection between "People" and "Food" is very important.
Food, customer and I are all connected,
like the fabric which is weaved with many different materials.