Katsuji Tanabe

Chef Partner

Tanabe was born and raised in Mexico City, where he spent his formative years training alongside private chefs in the homes of the city’s elite; picking up recipes and techniques while sparking a lifelong passion for Mexican cooking along the way. Looking for a challenge and utilizing the skills he acquired along the way, Tanabe made the transition from Chef, to Business Owner/Chef with his Mexikosher taqueria concept - a kosher taqueria based in Beverly Hills. In the last four years, he has competed on “Top Chef Boston,” “Top Chef Mexico,” and most recently “Top Chef Charleston.” Tanabe also had a winning appearance on the Food Network’s “Chopped.” Tanabe’s original take on Mexican fare combined with his background and family heritage proved him to be an undeniable choice for Barrio.