Kanazawa-based BBQ restaurant 'Shichirinya' receives the 'Excellent Food Industry Award' from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

Received the 30th Excellent Food Industry Award

Sai Group Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture; President: Kayo Iwamoto) operates the suburban BBQ restaurant chain 'Shichirinya.' The company has received the award from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) at the 30th Excellent Food Industry Awards, specifically in the Sustainable Business Promotion category.

This award system evaluates and recognizes excellent initiatives in the food service industry that leverage creativity, such as collaboration with agriculture, forestry and fisheries, responding to consumer needs, and environmental consideration.

Since its founding, the company has adhered to founder Seiichi Iwamoto's principle of 'Always be honest,' focusing on ingredient quality and hospitality. This award recognizes their community-based operations, preservation of food culture, and sustainable business practices.

Initiatives for BBQ Culture and Industry Advancement

- Tradition and Technique: Originating the 'Green Onion Wrapped Tongue' (Tsutsumi Negitan) in 1995, they have widely shared this technique to promote its nationwide popularity.

- Efficiency and Quality: By centralizing preparation, they have achieved labor savings and quality stability in stores, balancing staff well-being with technical excellence.

- Industry Contribution: Through sharing culinary techniques and providing guidance via industry groups, they have contributed to the growth of BBQ culture. They also co-developed low-cost smoke extraction ducts with local manufacturers to promote smoke-free environments in small BBQ shops.

- Work Environment: They emphasize a clear leave system and warm hospitality through their 'Okami' (proprietress) system. Despite the rise of serving robots, they remain committed to human-led, personalized service.

Aiming to be an Essential Neighborhood Restaurant

In 1988, they founded the BBQ restaurant 'Saisei' in Katamachi, Kanazawa. Later, they pivoted to open the suburban-style 'Shichirinya.' Currently, they operate three locations in Ishikawa Prefecture. They prioritize warm connections with local customers and family BBQ time over aggressive expansion.