We interviewed Takeshi Wakatsuki, the owner of SUSHI-TAKEHAN Wakatsuki, who introduced Classico uniforms. He talked about why he chose Classico for his restaurant and how comfortable they are to wear.

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Takeshi Wakatsuki, Owner of SUSHI-TAKEHAN Wakatsuki

He has been interested in the culinary world since he was a child. At the age of 16, he began training in sushi, believing that detailed work would suit him. He honed his skills at a Japanese restaurant and sushi restaurant in Shimane Prefecture for ten years before moving to Tokyo. After joining Sushi Takehan in Ebisu, Tokyo, he was once again impressed by the depth of sushi and studied under Akio Takeuchi. He decided to learn Edomae sushi in earnest. In 2013, he took over the restaurant as the second-generation owner and started Sushi Takehan Wakatsuki. He cherishes the daily accumulation of experience and is devoted to the art of sushi.

 

"I realize that attention to detail increases my motivation."

Until now, we had been using ready-made uniforms. However, when it comes to restaurant uniforms, there is little variety, and we always feel like we need something more. After searching around, we concluded that the only option was to have custom-made lab coats.
I first heard about Classico because an acquaintance of mine worked there. I had heard that it was for medical use, but after hearing about the fabric, I thought it would also be suitable for restaurants, so I placed an order for a custom order.

My theme for creating the restaurant's overall atmosphere has always been 'surprise and excitement.' Sushi is a traditional dish, but I want to create an atmosphere where customers can enjoy their meals and relax rather than feel too formal. That's why I add a playful touch to the restaurant's setting, the staff's attire, the tableware, and the snacks served while the sushi is being served.

One of those things we are particular about is our white coats. We emphasize ease of movement while ensuring that our style looks smart. Because we are in Ebisu, we have a wide range of customers, and our customers use our coats in various situations, so we pay attention to our appearance to avoid offending anyone.
When I tried them on, they looked tight, but the fabric is stretchy, so they don't strain the body even when the job requires much movement. Our staff also say they are very comfortable to move in. The elbow length is just right for work, too.

The Wakatsuki family crest is on the back. The design prioritizes ease of movement while incorporating a playful touch with a shawl collar and cufflinks of different colors. Everyone chooses their favorite color depending on their mood that day.

We add accent colors to the inside of the back and around the buttonholes, and paying attention to even the parts that only we can see boosts our motivation, and wearing it makes us feel more on our toes.
Since we changed our white coats, customers have come up to us and said, "Has something changed?" or "The buttons are a different color," which sometimes leads to conversations like, "Actually, this white coat...

When we're preparing food, we wear shirts and aprons. We change into white coats when we stand in front of customers. When we change into these and tie up our aprons, we feel more focused and motivated. I think motivation is fundamental when working on the same team. By wearing the same uniform, we hope to work together as teammates with the same spirit.

Just like knives, everyone has preferences when it comes to tools, and I've always wondered why there weren't any white coats before. I've been wondering about white coats for years, so I'm delighted. When I put one on, I feel like, "Yes!" So I think clothing is essential.

This is a restaurant I took over from my predecessor, so there are still customers who have been here since then. Some things have remained the same, but I feel the times are changing. At times like these, I think it's time to broaden my horizons and incorporate new things. I want to take on new challenges while protecting this place, a sushi restaurant.

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SUSHI-TAKEHAN Wakatsuki

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This lab coat is a custom-made item and is not normally sold. Please contact us for more information.