Senzaemon Nakiri

Senzaemon is stern, commanding and difficult to intimidate. His dramatic presence matches the enormous influence he possesses in the culinary world, yet his judgments are generally grounded in the quality of the food before him rather than personal favoritism. He recognizes unconventional talent when he sees it and is willing to let students prove themselves through results.

He also possesses a theatrical streak, most visibly expressed through his "gifting," the involuntary removal of his clothing after tasting especially delicious food. Beneath these eccentricities, he cares deeply about Tōtsuki and the future of its students.

His concern for his family is equally important. Senzaemon is especially protective of Erina Nakiri, recognizing both the extraordinary potential and the psychological burden created by her God's Tongue.

Senzaemon is not primarily shown competing as an active chef, but his culinary knowledge and palate place him among the most respected authorities in the series. He can rapidly assess technique, ingredient quality, balance and the intentions behind a dish, making him an effective judge of chefs operating at Tōtsuki's highest levels.

His influence is another major asset. As the academy's director and Nakiri patriarch, Senzaemon possesses extensive connections throughout the international culinary establishment and can summon leading chefs and graduates for major Tōtsuki events.

His distinctive "gifting" response serves as an exaggerated physical indication that a dish has impressed him. The phenomenon is eventually revealed to be a trait associated with the Nakiri family and can even affect the clothing of people around its strongest manifestations.

Senzaemon oversees the 92nd Generation when Sōma Yukihira enters Tōtsuki. Rather than rejecting Sōma's unconventional background, he allows the diner-trained student into the academy and watches the disruption his presence causes among Tōtsuki's elite.

He subsequently serves as an authority figure during major school events, including the training camp, Autumn Elections and other competitions. His broader plans become increasingly important as the conflict surrounding the academy's future develops.

Senzaemon is removed as director when Azami secures the support necessary to take control of Tōtsuki. It is later revealed that Senzaemon had deliberately encouraged numerous talented young chefs connected to Sōma to gather at Tōtsuki, hoping their influence could help Erina escape the psychological control imposed on her by her father. After the Rebels defeat Central, Senzaemon supports Erina becoming the academy's new director.

Erina Nakiri is Senzaemon's granddaughter, and he takes an active role in protecting her and cultivating an environment in which she can grow beyond the expectations surrounding the God's Tongue.

Alice Nakiri is his other granddaughter and another highly talented member of the Nakiri family.

Azami Nakiri is Senzaemon's son-in-law. Their philosophies come into direct conflict when Azami seizes control of Tōtsuki and establishes Central.

Mana Nakiri is Senzaemon's daughter and the mother of Erina.

Sōe Nakiri is Senzaemon's son and Alice's father.

Sōma Yukihira attracts Senzaemon's interest from the beginning of his Tōtsuki career, with Senzaemon recognizing the potential of his unconventional culinary upbringing.

Jōichirō Yukihira is a former Tōtsuki prodigy whose history with Senzaemon significantly predates Sōma's enrollment.