Chef
Koji Yokoyama
- Discipline
- Chef
- Based in
- San Francisco, California, United States
i. Biography
The Climb
Technique is the through line in Koji Yokoyama’s training. At Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, the fundamentals of timing, restraint, and control became the base of his cooking, and that foundation still shows in the way his food is built: measured, exacting, and attentive to what an ingredient already brings. The progression from school to a professional kitchen can be uneven, but Yokoyama’s path has moved with clear intent, each step reinforcing the same disciplined approach. At The Anchovy Bar, Koji Yokoyama is Chef, a role that places him inside the restaurant’s daily rhythm and its culinary identity.
Today
Since 2021, the kitchen at The Anchovy Bar has been led by Koji Yokoyama as Chef de cuisine. The title points to direct responsibility for the line, the pace, and the finished plate, and it fits a kitchen style built on close control rather than display. The role is also listed simply as chef, but the more specific title is Chef de cuisine. However it is presented, the position reflects a chef working at full focus, shaping a menu and kitchen culture with precision and consistency. At The Anchovy Bar, that means turning training into daily practice, keeping the work steady while the room moves.
Signature
The signature dishes point to a kitchen that values clarity over embellishment. Uni Guacamole carries richness with a direct, clean frame. Fennel-crusted Seared Albacore and Fennel-Crusted Albacore show a consistent interest in seasoning, structure, and the lift fennel can give to a composed plate. Grilled Monterey Squid brings a firmer, flame-driven texture, while Roasted Summer Squash stays quieter and more seasonal. Taken together, these dishes show Koji Yokoyama working with balance, precision, and a tight read on each ingredient. The effect is calibrated rather than ornamental, built to hold up in service and on the menu without overstatement.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Koji
What is Koji Yokoyama's current role?
As of 2026, Koji Yokoyama is Chef de cuisine.
Where did Koji Yokoyama train or study?
Koji Yokoyama trained at Culinary Institute of America at Greystone.
What recognition has Koji Yokoyama received?
StarChefs San Francisco-Oakland Rising Stars Award, Chef (2022).
