Senzaemon Nakiri reigned as former director of Tōtsuki Culinary Academy, an elite institution famed for its grueling curriculum and minuscule graduation rate. A towering presence in the culinary realm, he bore the epithet "Food’s Demon King" from his youth, a testament to his formidable influence and pivotal role in founding the academy to forge exceptional chefs. His leadership championed uncompromising standards, demanding tenacity, spirit, and courage from students while dismissing mediocrity, epitomized by his creed that 99% of learners serve as “common rocks” to refine the 1% of “diamonds” through relentless rivalry. Patriarch of the Nakiri family, he fathered Soue Nakiri and grandsired Erina and Alice Nakiri. His familial dynamic balanced protectiveness with impartiality. After exiling son-in-law Azami for subjecting Erina to brutal training to exploit her “God’s Tongue,” Senzaemon assumed her guardianship, placing her welfare above blood ties. He later upheld objectivity by overturning Erina’s dismissal of Soma Yukihira’s application and judging Alice’s Autumn Election dish below Soma’s, affirming meritocracy over favoritism. His directorship concluded when Azami seized control of Tōtsuki via Central, usurping his authority. Following Erina and Soma’s rebellion ousting Azami, Senzaemon ceded his role to Erina, empowering her to steer the academy’s destiny. He maintained an eccentric habit of shedding upper garments or experiencing his fundoshi loosening when awed by culinary mastery—a Nakiri trait signaling profound appreciation for excellence. He closely monitored the 92nd Tōtsuki Generation, identifying their capacity to eclipse predecessors. As an Autumn Election judge, he detected faint indicators of latent talent, like Megumi Tadokoro’s promise hinted by his unraveling fundoshi, dubbing them the “Jewel Generation.” Strategic maneuvers—recruiting Soma, backing rebels against Central—highlighted his foresight in fostering innovation and resilience. Post-rebellion, with Erina as headmaster, Senzaemon transitioned to a supportive elder role, safeguarding the academy’s heritage while embracing evolution. His legacy cemented his role as a bridge between Tōtsuki’s storied traditions and its dynamic future, preserving its status as a forge for culinary brilliance.