Where did you first start training?

I started working at a place called BROZERS' in Ningyocho. It was really strict—the boss ran the place with hotel-level hospitality standards. No beards allowed, and I learned so many important things beyond just cooking, like how to interact with people and communicate with coworkers. What was toughest was definitely cleaning. But thanks to that, I still make sure to keep the place spotless.

Yeah, your kitchen is very clean. What did you do after that?

After about three and a half years at BROZERS', I moved on to THE GOOD VIBES in Nakameguro for about three years. I worked with chefs trained in French cuisine and got to experiment with all sorts of dishes—American, Chinese, French, Italian—for staff meals. They taught me the little details that really make food taste good. I think that’s when my cooking skills really leveled up.

Is that when you opened your own shop?

Yeah. While I was still at BROZERS', I started a clothing brand using my savings to help fund my future shop. I named it “Still Secret,” meaning “the name is still a secret.” When it came time to open, I rebranded to OVERWHELM.

Why did you choose Gakugei-Daigaku for the location?

Mainly because I live nearby. The area around the station and shopping street is busy and good for business, but since we’re into hip-hop—especially underground—we preferred somewhere quieter. When this property popped up, we jumped on it. It’s about a seven-minute walk from the station, so it’s not easy to find, but in a way, it suits us to keep things low-key.

The interior is very stylish—who designed it?

My senpai, Naoya Morishita-san. He now works on major commercial projects, and he's just a really cool guy with a unique style. I’d been asking him for years, and when I finally opened my own place, he squeezed me into his schedule. I gave him full creative control, and he built something that truly reflects who we are. I love it.

What’s it been like running your own place?

It’s way more fun and mentally liberating compared to working for someone else. Of course, I’ve got to support my staff, which is tough but also my top priority.

What’s the concept behind the shop?

It’s a space where I’ve packed in everything I love. I wanted to create a place where people would instantly get a sense of who I am—no verbal intro needed.

Have you had any memorable moments since opening?

When Japanese hip-hop artists I’ve admired from afar come in to eat—it’s surreal. Like DJ Muro. I’ve got an old Muro video displayed in the shop, and when he saw it, he was stoked. That made me really happy. Also, when we first opened, burger fanatics and “burger maniacs” told me, “Your shop is the most talked-about in the burger scene right now.” That stuck with me.

Did you know those burger maniacs beforehand?

Yeah, from my previous jobs. I’d see the president of the Burger Association and other well-known foodies around, and we got familiar. When I opened this place, they all came by and congratulated me. They don’t usually play favorites, but I got some really nice compliments.

Are there a lot of burger shops in Tokyo?

As of last year, there were about 9,250 burger shops across Japan. Probably even more now. My shop currently ranks around 90th on Tabelog, and not many places crack the top 100 in their first year.

That’s impressive! Any future goals or dreams?

I want to build more buzz around the Nakameguro shop. There’s a cluster of six apparel brands behind it, and I’d love to collaborate with them. We’re also expanding our own clothing line. I design everything, and we’re planning to release new items—shirts, tees, shorts—next month. We drop new stuff every two months or so.