The author reflects on a deeply personal journey from childhood loss to finding passion in sushi-making. Inspired by memories of his father and his brother's influence, he trained in Tokyo for seven rigorous years, cultivating his skills. After various geographical and professional challenges, including a devastating restaurant fire, he confronted despair yet chose resilience. His journey culminated in the opening of Matsuhisa in Beverly Hills, where high-profile customers like Robert De Niro recognized his talent and reignited his ambition, demonstrating that perseverance leads to eventual success.
After losing my restaurant to a fire, I thought about suicide. But my family and kids reminded me that I had to wake up and keep going.
My training took seven years, during which I didn’t learn to make sushi for the first three years. I had two days off each month.
After my training in Tokyo, when a customer from Peru asked to open a restaurant in Lima, it felt like a chance to pursue my dream.
Every time Robert De Niro came to LA, he visited my restaurant. His interest in opening a New York location reignited my ambitions.
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