Authentic Taste.
No Compromise.
Born and raised on the beautiful island of Tanegashima in southern Japan, founder Mitsuhiro Yashio grew up surrounded by the ocean and pristine nature.
The local culture instilled in him a deep respect for organic, honest ingredients and the power of simple, nourishing meals.
Hear It From Mitsu
In his own words — the journey from Tanegashima to Sydney, and why Otogo had to exist.
Chapter 2
Mastering the Craft in Kyoto
To truly understand Japanese culinary arts, Yashio moved to Kyoto, the traditional heart of Japan. There, he trained under Hiroki Abe, a Michelin-starred chef. This rigorous training was not just about cooking—it was about "Omotenashi" (hospitality) and the uncompromising pursuit of quality, even in the smallest details.
Chapter 3
Bringing Yachiyo to Sydney
In pursuit of bringing authentic Japanese food to the world, Yashio moved to Sydney. He successfully established and managed multiple dining venues, most notably "Yachiyo", a highly acclaimed Japanese restaurant beloved by the local community. Through these ventures, he proved that authentic, high-quality Japanese cuisine could thrive internationally.
The Vision
Make The World Better.
Introducing Otogo.
Despite his success in fine dining, Yashio noticed a gap: everyday fast food was rarely healthy, and healthy food was rarely fast. He envisioned a new standard—a Next-Generation QSR (Quick Service Restaurant).
Otogo was born from the mission to "Make the world better". By delivering additive-free, warm Japanese meals within 90 seconds, Otogo ensures that busy families, health-conscious professionals, and everyone in between can enjoy a quick, guilt-free meal.
"From Japan to Your Hands in 90 sec."
The Full Story
From Tanegashima to the World
An ongoing journey — from a small island in southern Japan, through Kyoto kitchens and New York trials, to the birth of Otogo. New chapters added over time.
Read the Founder's Story →名前の由来 · The Origin of Our Name
小さき者の、
大きな旅。
A Small Beginning. A Great Journey.
Otogo is named after Otogosahime (乙子狭姫) — a small but wise goddess from Japanese mythology. When her mother, the goddess of food, was slain, she left Otogosahime just one gift: the seeds of the five grains.
Tiny and alone, Otogosahime climbed onto the back of a red goose and crossed the sea. She was turned away again and again. But she never gave up. With wisdom and patience — never with force — she tamed giants, befriended strangers, and planted seeds in new soil.
The people called her Tanemehime — the Seed Princess.
"小さき種から、世界を温める物語を。"
From a small seed, a story that warms the world.
Like Otogosahime, Otogo starts with just a grain of rice — and carries it across oceans. Not with advertising budgets or supply-chain dominance, but with honest ingredients, quiet craft, and the stubborn belief that a warm, simple meal can change someone's day.
Small Beginning. Great Empathy.
Continue the Journey
Bring Otogo Home
Our soy sauce, original sauces, furikake and more — the same craft, delivered to your kitchen.