Draft:Rainer Becker

Rainer Becker (born in Bernkastel-Kues, Germany) is a German chef. He owns multiple restaurants in the Middle East,, Asia, Europe and North America. Becker is known for creating dishes involving German cuisine. He is the co-founder of Azumi Restaurant Group.

Early life and career
Rainer Becker was born and raised in Bernkastel-Kues, Germany. He began his culinary journey while he was a child, observing his mother cook meals for the family. Becker had trained at the Goethehaus in Bensberg and Koenigshop in Munich.

After his training, he joined the Hyatt Hotels Corporation in Cologne where he was Chef de Cuisine. In 1992, Becker had his breakthrough when he was appointed Executive Chef of Park Hyatt Sydney. During his tenure, which spanned two years, Becker was recognized by the media earning the title of Executive Caterer of the Year. Subsequently after his time in Australia, he assumed the role of Executive Chef at the Park Hyatt Tokyo in 1994, where he oversaw the launch and operation of all five hotel restaurants in Tokyo. In 1998, Becker relocated to London where he served as the executive chef for the Hyatt Carlton Tower hotel and was also a consultant at Hakkasan restaurant.

In 2002, Becker alongside restaurant investor Arjun Waney launched his first Japanese restaurant Zuma in Knightsbridge, London. Zuma adopted the izakaya style where dishes are continuously brought to the table throughout the meal. In 2004, Becker introduced a second brand, ROKA & Shochu Lounge. Subsequently he also launched Oblix.

In 2004, Harpers and Moet named him Chef of the Year in 2004. He was also ranked 45th in The Caterer’s top 100 list of the most powerful people in hospitality in 2012.

Awards
·  Best Newcomer in 2003 by Guild of Chefs Awards