Ryo Kurokiba serves as Alice Nakiri's aide at Tōtsuki Culinary Academy. Growing up in a Danish port town pub kitchen, he endured harsh conditions where incompetent chefs faced immediate dismissal. This forged a survivalist mentality, compelling him to rely solely on his culinary prowess. Despite his youth, he rose to head chef, commanding older staff and gaining local renown. His reputation drew Alice Nakiri, who visited and insisted on recruiting him. After losing hundreds of cooking duels to her over two years, Ryo finally defeated her, acknowledging her as "Milady" and agreeing to accompany her to Tōtsuki. Physically, Ryo is tall with unkempt brownish-black hair, red eyes, and prominent eye bags that lend a perpetually tired look. He typically wears his Tōtsuki uniform unbuttoned over a dark tank top. His most distinctive trait is a flame-patterned crimson bandana, worn on his head or wrist, which triggers a drastic personality shift. Without the bandana, Ryo exhibits a lethargic, disinterested personality, speaking slowly and minimally. He remains attentively obedient to Alice, often described as resembling a protective dog. When wearing the bandana or any tight headgear, he enters "Berserk Mode," adopting an aggressive, wild, and intimidating persona. This heightens his focus and intensity during cooking, accompanied by violent outbursts and savage expressions. He instantly reverts to his subdued state if the bandana is removed. Ryo views kitchens as battlefields where food is power. He disdains chef camaraderie, believing it weakens competitive edge. His culinary philosophy centers on forcing consumers to "submit" to his dishes, prioritizing dominance over comfort or nostalgia. He specializes in seafood, possessing exceptional skill to assess freshness instantly and execute precise, high-speed techniques. His early style emphasized "violent" flavors designed to overwhelm. After losing to Akira Hayama in the Autumn Election finals, he refined his approach to incorporate delicate, creative elements. This evolution proved crucial in his Shokugeki victory against Rentaro Kusunoki of the Central Gourmet Organization. During the "Regiment de Cuisine" arc, Ryo and Alice resisted Azami Nakiri's administration but were expelled after failing the third Promotion Exam. They later supported the rebel faction from the sidelines. Following the rebels' victory, Ryo was appointed the 5th Seat of the Elite Ten Council. He continuously challenges Hayama for the 4th Seat while fending off challenges from Alice. Notable dishes include French Curry Lobster Rice with Cognac, incorporating lobster brains and premium cognac; Soupe De Poisson Ramen, a fusion using crushed crustacean shells for intense flavor; and Autumn Pacific Saury Cartoccio, showcasing his refined technique and bond with Alice. Ryo's development reflects a balance between his innate ferocity and acquired finesse, maintaining his competitive drive while adapting to Tōtsuki's collaborative challenges.