Twenty-four eager school children learned the meaning of selamat pagi - "good morning" in Japanese - and a new type of Eastern cuisine on a school visit to a local restaurant.

The Montessori International Academy students who were between the ages of three and six were wooed yesterday by Dale Butler as he introduced to them the 'teppanyaki' style of cooking.

In the Japanese language, 'teppan' means grill and 'yaki' means fry. The event was showcased at The L'Oriental restaurant while chef, Alex Tham, unveiled his intricate showmanship skills to the children and their parents.

Teachers, Maha Turner and assistant, Mrs. Skreta were also there. Mrs. Turner said the exposure to other cultures was needed because "everyone comes from different backgrounds and cultures and the children are now learning how to respect other peoples' backgrounds".

"It is a learning experience to learn about the different foods and such," she added.

The children sat in front of the teppanyaki in chairs and listened as Mr. Butler explained what Mr. Tham was doing. They watched as he grilled fried rice, diced chicken, and shrimps. They also tasted Mr. Tham's creations.

Parents who tagged along to support the programme were very excited and impressed.

Parents, Dr. David and Mrs. Jean Galloway, came along with the group to support their son, Stephen, who is six.

"I think it's a great experience and Mr. Butler is a great entertainer," Dr. Galloway said.

Mrs. Galloway was also full of praise on the outing, saying: "It's not a place I would usually take a child, so it's good he got to learn something new."

Mark Peeters, who also stopped by to support his son Theo said: "He had two plates of everything and still wanted more. I have been here plenty of times and I'm sure we're going to be here again with him."

Maitre' d Manuel Llanes explained that the teppanyaki is the Japanese way of cooking fish, meat, poultry, and other seafoods. "It is used to create showmanship and to attract people," he said.

Mr. Butler, is the executive in charge of Training, Leadership, and Communications of the Little Venice Groups was asked by his employers to host the event. "The children were excited because they got to look like a chef, participate, and they got to taste the food," he said.