Chefs

Tetsu Yahagi was born in Fukuoka, Japan, on the northern shore of the Island Kyushu.  Tetsu fondly recalls the day his Dad told him of his work transfer and that the entire family would move to California.  Since his Mother had her hands full with 3 younger siblings, as the eldest Tetsu would do his part with lending a hand in the kitchen.  On a visit to a local bookstore he came across the cookbook, Wolfgang Puck Adventures in the Kitchen.  To his excitement there were recipes for sashimi tuna and uni sauce.  This was like home cooking!  He coerced his Mom into making purchase.  Page by page he taught himself to cook California Cuisine.  Years later before his family had to return to Japan, Tetsu's only wish was to dine at Spago Hollywood.  As he and his family feasted on Pizzas, and Black Pepper crusted Tuna, he met Wolfgang, and asked him to sign the tattered book.  This was a turning point up in his life.

Upon his return to Japan his only desire was to attend formal cooking school.   He attended world renowned French cookery school, Tsuji, Tokyo, Japan.  He graduated with honors, and was chosen by the Dean of Studies to travel to Burgundy, France.  There he would train under Jacques Lameloise, of the 3 Star Michelin, Restaurant Lameloise. 

Tetsu returned to Japan and began his work at Restaurant Tableaux, assisting Chef Akira Watanabe in creating a menu of French Cookery with International influences.

Tetsu was selected by Wolfgang Puck as an opening Sous Chef for Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill in Tokyo.  In preparation for the opening he trained with Lee Hefter.  Chef Hefter would later recruit Tetsu to join the team in the US, as a line cook at Spago Beverly Hills, where over the past 5 years he has risen up the ranks.

Now as Chef de Cuisine at Spago Beverly Hills, Tetsu comes full circle.  It is a dream realized.  In his new role Chef Tetsu's mission is to keep the history and tradition of Spago Beverly Hills vibrant; bringing his Japanese influence and sense of refinement to the cuisine.  He uses Farmers Market ingredients to create exciting new menu selections.  Under his elegant hand there is no doubt the legacy will continue.