Akio Sato graduated from Koriyama Commercial High School in Fukushima Prefecture. He completed the Japanese cuisine program at the Tsuji Culinary Institute, where he received the Award of Excellence.

After graduating from the Tsuji Culinary Research Institute, he trained at traditional Japanese restaurants (kappo and ryōtei) in Osaka. At the age of 23, he opened a Japanese restaurant that operated exclusively by reservation. For 25 years, he served as both owner and chef.

Since July 2023, he has served as chef at the official residence of the Japanese Ambassador to Portugal, a position he holds to this day.