Yagut & Asif — Cooking Class Profile

Yagut

Hi! I'm Yagut, from Azerbaijan. I've been living in Japan for the past three years, studying for my master's degree in Nara.

My love for cooking started when I was 13. I still remember how much I enjoyed trying out new recipes I'd picked up from morning TV shows, racing to cook something fresh before my mom came home for lunch. Ever since, cooking has been my favorite hobby of all time — though honestly, it's more than a hobby. It's my love language. I love cooking for the people I care about, and there's nothing quite like watching someone enjoy a meal I've made.

For years, my biggest dream was to go to culinary school. In 2021, that dream finally came true. I entered a competition offering free culinary training at CASA Culinary Center, one of the best culinary schools in Baku, Azerbaijan, and became one of just five winners of the theoretical and practical rounds. It was an incredible chance to take everything I'd taught myself online and learn it properly — hands-on, from professional chefs. Over the nine-month program I studied a range of cuisines, including my own Azerbaijani cuisine, and graduated with the City & Guilds (UK) Level 2 Diploma in Food Preparation and Culinary Arts.

Since coming to Japan, I've worked as a cooking assistant at two restaurants — Cafe Absinthe in Osaka and Ruth's Chris Steak House — which gave me even more confidence in my skills and knowledge in the kitchen.

Asif

Hi! I'm Asif, born and raised in Kerala, in the south of India. I've loved cooking for as long as I can remember — inspired by my mom, I picked up the basics early on, and I've always enjoyed making food for my friends and family. For me, the best part is the smile it brings to people's faces.

I came to Japan to do my master's in IT, and I'm now working here as a Sales Manager at Japan Auto Parts Express. Along the way, I met the love of my life, Yagut — and discovered that she loves cooking just as much as I do. Getting to share that passion with her, and now with all of you, is something I'm really excited about.

About us

We're Yagut and Asif — a couple who met in Japan and bonded over a shared love of cooking. In our classes, you'll get to explore two cuisines side by side: the warm, aromatic dishes of South Indian (Keralan) food and the rich, vibrant flavors of Azerbaijani cuisine. And for guests who are feeling adventurous, we also offer fusion recipes that blend the two traditions into something you won't find anywhere else. We can't wait to cook with you!