Drenched in torrential rain and under a red weather alert, Bucharest paused late Tuesday for the launch of the Samurai Gourmet collection, created by Chef Rikito Watanabe in collaboration with Cooking by Heinner. The event, held at Sanki Ramen Bar, offered an authentic glimpse into Japanese culture amid a lively atmosphere of emotion, smiles, and positive energy.
Despite heavy rain and severe weather warnings, guests turned out in large numbers to support Chef Rikito Watanabe and explore a collection inspired by respect, discipline, and a passion for cooking. Inside, laughter, storytelling, and live demonstrations replaced the storm outside with a wave of applause and enthusiasm.
About the Samurai Gourmet Collection
The Samurai Gourmet by Cooking by Heinner collection represents a fusion between Japanese tradition and the modern spirit of cooking. Developed over a year and a half, this range is the result of an authentic collaboration between the Cooking by Heinner team and Chef Rikito Watanabe — a chef who brought the flavors of Japan to Romania and wanted to make Japanese culinary art accessible to everyone through this line.
The collection includes 9 professional Japanese knives and 11 stainless steel and aluminum pots and woks, each piece reflecting the essence of Japanese philosophy: balance, simplicity, and respect for ingredients.
The Samurai Gourmet Knives
These knives are designed to offer precision, control, and elegance, inspired by traditional Japanese models used by professional chefs: Sashimi, Sujihiki, Nakiri, Santoku, Gyuto, Cleaver, Universal, and Paring knives.
Each blade is made of high-quality stainless steel, heat-treated for durability and cutting clarity. The handles are crafted from natural wood, carefully processed for comfort, balance, and a secure grip — giving each knife its own unique personality. Out of respect for the natural materials, the knives are not dishwasher-safe, helping preserve the wood and extend the blade’s lifespan. The design is minimalist yet sophisticated — an expression of Japanese perfection and understated refinement.
“These knives make you feel the connection between you and the ingredient. I use them with confidence, and I can honestly say they’re very close to the ones I grew up with in Japan,” Chef Rikito Watanabe said.
The Samurai Gourmet Cookware and Woks
The cookware and wok range was designed to bring professional performance into an accessible format. Each piece is made of aluminum, a material renowned for durability and even heat distribution. The interior features a matte black ceramic coating, while the bases are compatible with all types of cooktops, including induction.
Ergonomic handles provide stability and comfort, while the clean, modern design transforms each piece into a true statement item for the kitchen.
“We wanted Samurai Gourmet to be not only beautiful, but also functional, durable, and easy to use for anyone who loves to cook. It’s about balance — between performance, design, and fair pricing,” Mihai Purdea, Brand Manager at Cooking by Heinner, mentioned.
Premium Quality Made Accessible
In a market where authentic Japanese products can often be out of reach, Cooking by Heinner and Chef Rikito Watanabe succeeded in creating a collection that delivers professional Japanese culinary standards at a friendly price. Significant effort went into durable materials, quality finishes, and precise craftsmanship — all without compromising affordability.
“This collection was made with both heart and reason. We wanted everyone to be able to have at home a knife or a wok with true Japanese DNA, without paying an exclusive price. For us, this means democratizing the passion for cooking,” Isabella Brănișteanu, Owner of Thinkegic, the agency that coordinated the project, added.
A Heartfelt Launch Despite the Weather
The launch event, held at Sanki Ramen Bar, was a true demonstration of resilience and passion. Even as the rain poured outside, guests came ready to enjoy an authentic culinary experience — live cooking with Rikito, tasting sessions, conversations, and a warm, emotional atmosphere. Those present discovered not only a collection, but also a story about courage, reinvention, and gratitude.
“Romania gave me a second chance. Samurai Gourmet is my way of saying thank you and giving back everything I’ve learned — respect, balance, and the joy of cooking for the people you love,” Riki, visibly moved, at the end of the event, concluded.
Availability: The Samurai Gourmet by Cooking by Heinner collection is available starting this week in partner stores and online, including on eMAG.
