Interview with the owner of "Yakitori Nacchan"
We spoke with Katsunori Natsuyama, who runs a takeout yakitori shop in Mizushima, Kurashiki City.
The origin of "Yakitori Nacchan"
Can you tell us what inspired you to start a yakitori shop?
Natsuyama
I trained for eight years at a yakitori shop in Mizushima, and it all started when I thought about becoming independent in 2010.
It was difficult to suddenly own a shop, so I started with mobile sales. I got the chance to do mobile sales through an acquaintance's introduction. However, I didn't have much money, so there were times when I drove for four hours to other prefectures without using the highway.
After about six months of living like that, I started selling over 600 skewers a day.
Gradually, the word-of-mouth about "Yakitori Nacchan" spread, and I started receiving requests from home centers and supermarkets in Ibara City, Kamogata, Kasaoka City, and Satosho Town, allowing me to do mobile sales at other locations.
When did you start your current shop?
Natsuyama
Originally, I rented the place as a preparation area, but around 2016, I started opening it as a takeout shop once a week. At that time, I was also helping another restaurant, so I really committed to "doing yakitori" starting in 2017.
Since I am the only one grilling, I usually sell at the shop, but when I am invited to events, I close the shop and grill yakitori at the event location.
The taste of yakitori changes with feelings
Can you tell us about your shop's commitment?
Natsuyama
I use domestic ingredients for 90% of what I serve, and I am particular about freshness, preparing each item with care and attention.
Even if you follow the same procedure to make yakitori, the taste can change depending on your feelings. That's why I try to approach the preparation with a fun mindset.
I want customers to enjoy freshly grilled yakitori, so I primarily operate on a made-to-order basis. However, I do have a small amount of pre-grilled yakitori for those in a hurry.
Future prospects
Is there anything you want to do through yakitori in the future?
Natsuyama
I have been able to come this far thanks to the support of many people. Therefore, I now want to teach yakitori skills to children and young people who are not attending school or have disabilities, and I am starting to take small steps towards that.
In the future, I want to create a place like an eco-village where the burden of utility costs and rent is low, allowing children to live independently and freely while doing what they love when they grow up. I aim to create a future where children's possibilities expand through yakitori.
You are also sharing your thoughts on Instagram.
Natsuyama
I write for things I don't want to forget and to remember my original intentions, for myself.
There are people who read it and say, "I was helped by this," and I have moments where I think I'm glad I shared. It's good to talk about your dreams. Like-minded friends gather, so I believe it's important to share even if it's embarrassing.
Finally, if you have any message for the readers, please share.
Natsuyama
I believe yakitori is not just food, but something that connects people. It can become something important enough to be chosen for someone's last meal.
That's why I want to continue grilling with care and pass on that skill and feeling to young people. I want to be an adult who does not deny dreams and can encourage others by saying, "You can do it."
Conclusion
Supported by connections between people, Natsuyama has overcome hardships to realize his dreams.
From the days when he thought, "I only have yakitori," to now wanting to "connect with people through yakitori and be a help to someone," his progress shines brightly.
His desire to teach skills to children and support their independence reflects Natsuyama's way of life that transcends business.
At the end of the interview, Natsuyama laughed and said, "I aim to be a yakitori shop that can sing and dance! My goal is to be super popular! Please write that."
In those words, there was a sense of straightforwardness and warm humor.
Data on Yakitori Nacchan
Takeout specialty shop
Dining in the shop is not available
| Name | Yakitori Nacchan |
|---|---|
| Address | 12-20 Nishiyayoicho, Mizushima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 090-6434-6851 |
| Parking | None |
| Business Hours | 3 PM to 7 PM *Closed when participating in events |
| Regular Holidays | Monday, Tuesday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation | Available |
| Restroom | No restroom |
| Website | Yakitori Nacchan Instagram |
An eco-village is a small village or community created for environmentally friendly living.
It generates electricity using sunlight and grows vegetables with the cooperation of residents, living in harmony with nature and leading a waste-free life. A major feature is the aim for a society where future generations can live safely and comfortably.