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“Bon!” expresses the joy of encountering something truly extraordinary.
“Sai (사이) ”represents the space or connection that exists between people, and between people and things.
Together with “Bonsai(盆栽),” which symbolizes the Japanese view of nature and refined aesthetic sensibility, these meanings are woven into the name

 

“ Bon . Sai ”

OUR TEAM

Kei Muto
Hiroyuki Hasegawa
Yuki Muto

Creative Director

Fermentation Expert

​Culinary Producer

Pancho Asakura

Spirits Curator

our team
MUTO Kei

Together with skilled artisans and people of unique vision, we pursue new possibilities in food.
It is our sincere hope that Bon.Sai will continue to grow into a brand cherished by many.

Kei Muto

Founder / Creative Director, Bon.Sai LLC

 

Kei Muto, born in South Korea, is a culinary researcher and creative director who enjoys exploring the crossroads of food, culture, and design.

 

From 2008 to 2013, Kei was part of the team behind Spoon Bread in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo—Japan’s very first popover café and restaurant. There, Kei created menus that highlighted seasonal ingredients from across Japan and organized events that brought in flavors from Mexico and Brazil.

 

Since the café’s ten-year journey came to an end in 2013, Kei has continued to develop recipes, write about food, and share ideas as a culinary researcher. Kei is also passionate about connecting Japanese and Korean food cultures, working on projects that celebrate both traditions.

  Selected Achievements

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  • Contributed to Tobu Railway’s monthly magazine “To-Bu” with articles on world cuisine and sweets, as well as a home recipe series (2017–2018)

  • Served as chef and Japan–Korea coordinator at the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy Festival in Jeonju, South Korea, and signed an MOU with the Jeollabuk-do Chefs Association (2017)

  • Directed a promotional campaign for Kagawa Prefecture’s local ingredients at Spoon Bread (2012)

  • Appeared as a guest instructor on NHK’s children’s program Cooking Idol Ai! Mai! Main! DVD “Sweets Edition,” teaching popover desserts (2010)

  • Awarded 1st Prize in the Professional Division of the Tokyo Culinary Contest featuring locally produced agricultural, forestry, and fishery products (2010)

  • Planned and directed events at Spoon Bread promoting Brazilian and Mexican cuisine, including menu development and event direction in collaboration with the Brazilian Embassy (2010)

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