Taka Yoshimoto

Executive Vice President
Benihana Inc.

Taka Yoshimoto is in charge of the restaurant operations of Benihana and Samurai restaurants. His other executive responsibilities at Benihana include expansion and acquisitions.

Born in Japan, Mr. Yoshimoto began his career at Benihana in July 1979 as a management instructor. He later served as a research analyst, director of operations and vice president. In addition to overseeing employee and guest relations, Mr. Yoshimoto manages more than 3,000 employees and assists the president of Benihana with key business decisions.

Mr. Yoshimoto serves as a director of Benihana Inc., Benihana of Tokyo and Benihana Ono Restaurant BV in Europe. He was involved in the acquisitions of the Kyoto and Samurai restaurants from the Rudy's Restaurant Group in 1997, Haru in 1999 and Ra Sushi in 2002, all instrumental to the present growth of Benihana.

Mr. Yoshimoto holds a Master of Science degree in finance and economics and an MBA from Louisiana State University. He has also completed his doctoral study at Tulane University.

Mr. Yoshimoto speaks and writes Japanese fluently and enjoys snow skiing, scuba diving, sailing, aesthetic study as well as writing, listening and playing jazz music.