Kouji Maeda serves as the central character throughout the official *Welcome to Pia Carrot 2* media. As a high school student seeking summer vacation employment, his persistent efforts secure him a part-time job at the Pia Carrot restaurant chain despite an initial late arrival.

A lighthearted, occasionally perverse interest in his female coworkers defines Kouji, straining his early interactions, particularly with Azusa Hinomori. Their relationship begins antagonistically following a clumsy collision en route to work, fostering mutual dislike. This dynamic evolves as they work together, with tension gradually shifting toward romantic ambiguity.

Beyond Azusa, Kouji navigates relationships with multiple staff members, including Mina (Azusa's younger sister), Ryoko Futaba (the restaurant manager), Aoi Minase, Tsukasa Enomoto, and Jun Kagurazaka. His friendships extend to Shinji Yano, Ryoko's cousin. Yusuke Kinoshita, the chief from the original *Pia Carrot*, serves as his supervisor, linking Kouji to the broader restaurant legacy.

Kouji's story continues in the sequel *Welcome to Pia Carrot 2.2*, set four months later. He remains employed at Pia Carrot 2nd, with Tsukasa Enomoto now fully transferred to the location and Yusuke temporarily managing the 3rd branch. His presence expands to *Welcome to Pia Carrot 3*, set one year after the events of *Pia Carrot 2*, where he and Azusa appear in supporting roles alongside the new protagonist, Akihiko Kannaduki.

The non-hentai OVA *Welcome to Pia Carrot 2 DX* further explores Kouji's experiences. Spanning six episodes, it centers on his workplace interactions and complex, evolving relationship with Azusa, framed within a romantic comedy structure.