Know Our Story | Shimogamo

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From Japan to Chandler, A Commitment to Authenticity

2003

2008

2019

2020

2021

2022

2024

2026

A Family Dream Begins in Chandler

Founded by Sanae and Yoshio Otomo, Shimogamo opened in Chandler with a mission to bring authentic Japanese cuisine and hospitality to Arizona. Inspired by the food culture they grew up with in Japan, the couple created a restaurant centered around tradition, quality, and community.

Adapting Through the Financial Crisis

During the global financial crisis, Shimogamo adjusted its business model to focus on approachable home-style Japanese dishes while carefully managing costs. The flexibility and support from the local community helped the restaurant successfully navigate a difficult economic period.

A New Generation Returns From Tokyo

Daughter Mika, a professionally trained sake and wine sommelier, and her husband, Tokyo-trained chef Daisuke Itagaki, returned from Japan to help lead the next chapter of Shimogamo. Their experience in Tokyo’s dining scene brought a renewed focus on hospitality, seasonal ingredients, premium wagyu, and elevated Japanese cuisine.

Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the restaurant industry rapidly changed during COVID-19, Shimogamo shifted its operations to better support takeout dining while maintaining the quality and integrity of its food. The team adapted quickly to continue serving the community during an uncertain time.

Remodeling and Expanding the Original Location

Shimogamo completed a major remodel and expansion. What began as an effort to better accommodate social distancing and changing guest expectations evolved into a long-term investment in the future growth of the business, increasing dining capacity and enhancing the overall guest experience.

Launch of the Craft Cocktail Bar Program

Following the expansion, Shimogamo introduced a full cocktail bar and craft beverage program inspired by Japanese bartending culture. The addition expanded the restaurant’s identity beyond traditional dining, featuring Japanese-inspired craft cocktails, premium whisky, and curated sake selections.

Opening the Gilbert Location

Shimogamo expanded with its second Arizona location in Gilbert at SanTan Village. The new restaurant introduced yakitori and robata grilling over traditional Japanese charcoal, alongside an expanded cocktail and sake program in a larger, modern dining space.

Opening a Yakitori Restaurant in Japan

In 2026, the team opened “Toridai” (www.toridai.jp) in Mishima, Japan — a yakitori-focused restaurant rooted in Japanese charcoal grilling and hospitality culture. The project reflects Shimogamo’s ongoing commitment to staying deeply connected to Japan while continuing to grow internationally.

A Complete Japanese Dining Experience Rooted in Tradition, Craft and Hospitality

Founded in 2003 by Sanae and Yoshio Otomo, Shimogamo has been dedicated to bringing authentic Japanese cuisine and hospitality to Arizona for over two decades. What began as a small family-owned restaurant has grown through a deep respect for tradition, seasonality, and genuine guest experience.

In 2019, the next generation joined the restaurant as Mika Otomo and Executive Chef Daisuke Itagaki returned from Tokyo, bringing a renewed vision shaped by modern Japanese dining culture, refined culinary technique, and curated sake and wine expertise.

Today, from our original Chandler location to our Gilbert restaurant specializing in yakitori and robata, Shimogamo continues to blend traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a contemporary dining experience designed to be warm, thoughtful, and memorable.

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Led by Executive Chef Daisuke Itagaki

A Culinary Perspective Shaped Across Japan and Beyond

Executive Chef Daisuke Itagaki brings a rare combination of traditional Japanese foundation and global fine dining experience.

Born in Shizuoka, Japan, and trained at the prestigious Tsuji Culinary Institute in Osaka, he began his career mastering both Japanese and Western techniques. His journey took him through Tokyo’s fine dining scene, including years with Milial Resort Hotels, before leading kitchens across Japan in high-end restaurant concepts.

His work includes shaping culinary programs for international concepts such as Alexander’s Steakhouse Tokyo and Prime42, where precision, ingredient quality, and cross-cultural influence defined his approach. In 2019, he joined Shimogamo alongside his wife Mika, daughter of the founders, taking on the role of Executive Chef and co-owner.

Today, he leads menu development, kitchen operations, and exclusive tasting experiences that regularly sell out within hours.

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