Yokota celebrates the opening of fine dining restaurant

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina R. Menchaca
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Members of the Yokota community gathered at the Officer's Club to conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony for Yokota's new fine dining facility, Chico's Chop House and Seafood Grill, here Jan. 12.

The chop house was named in honor of Mr. Masayuki Nakamura, better known as Chico, in recognition of his nearly 60 years of dedicated service to those who serve.

Chico began his career working at Tachikawa Air Base in maintenance as an airplane washer and later he moved on to Yokota, when he became a member of the Yokota club system.

"It's a fitting honor for Chico and one that we're very proud of. He is a great guy. We are happy to do a ribbon cutting to open up Chico's Chop House in his honor, and it widens the spectrum of food that we have at this base," said Col. Otto Feather, 374th Airlift Wing commander. "Chico is indicative of the kind of people we live and work with everyday. Our Japanese partners are so critical to everything that we do, and I can't think of a better representative of that ethos than Chico-san."

The restaurant is designed as a fine dining area for the entire Yokota community, complete with an atmosphere of candle light and soft music.

"It's someplace that you would want to bring your girlfriend or wife and have a really nice quiet meal in a relaxed atmosphere. It's a unique experience in itself," said David Merlino, the Officer's Club assistant manager and chef. "The beef we get is chilled Angus beef specially cut and made for us, so everything is fresh."

Ted Watson, the Officer's Club manager, remarked that "Chico" is second to none; he always smiles at everybody and everybody wants Chico as their waiter. He's only one person but he tries to serve everybody."

Regarding the restaurant itself, Mr. Watson said "There will never be another place like the Chico's. Believe me: it's outstanding."

Chico's Chop House and Seafood Grill's hours of operation are 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. For more information on the chop house, please call 225-8526.