IRONCHEF
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The ironchefs are the reoccuring characters on the show. They are either chosen by the host Takeshi Kaga or whoever the challenger of the week is. They are usually chosen to match the style of the challenger. In the history of the show, there has been seven total Ironchefs. Currently, there are four that still hold the title. They are:
Masaharu Morimoto-
he is the third Japanese Ironchef known as the "silver chef" because of his outfit. He debuted in 1998. He often is criticized for being to "American" in his style of cooking(he has an American flag on his uniform) or modern in his techniques. He is famous for his battles with the Otah Faction. He lives in New York where he has a restraunt called "Nobu." He also has a restraunt opening up in Philadelphia but if you want to go, order many months in advance because it is always booked!
Chin/Chen Kenichi-
The Chinese Ironchef (my personal favorite). Why the two names? Chin is the Japanese version and Chen is the Chinese version. I hear it pronounced Chen more often but it can be switched. He is known for his funny facial expressions and last minute dishes. Often times his kitchen is in chaos but he always manages to get the job done. He has been with the show since the beginning. He has a restaurant in Asaka.
Hiroyuki Sakai-
He is the second French Ironchef, debuted in 1994. He concentrates much of his efforts in the presentation of his dishes. They are always elegant and score highly with the judges (especially Hosoki Kazuko a judge who visits often). He has the highest win percentage of any Ironchef. He owns "La Rochelle" in Tokyo. He wears all red when he's in Kitchen Stadium.
Katsuhiko Kobe-
The youngest of the ironchefs. Kobe is the first Italian Ironchef however the show started without an Italian Ironchef, there he has only been on the show since 1997. He is a bit wild at times. His trademark is that he runs to the ingredient stand at the beginning of each show instead of the casual pace displayed by the other chefs. He owns "Ristorante Massa" in Tokyo. His uniform are the colors of the Italian flag (red green white). Also, when rising on his podium, he has an a small orchestra playing music rather than the usual dramatic recording.