Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef Hiro-san.
Hi Chef Hiro-san, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
When I was 18 years old and still in the university, I stumbled upon a job as an apprentice in a fine dining sushi restaurant in Tokyo, Japan. Like all the apprentices, I had to learn all the basics around the kitchen. As I did so, I became interested in sushi culture even more. Then I decided to move to Kyoto, where I started to learn sushi from Master Ido San, who practiced methods from traditional Japanese culture. During the first few years, I had been taught only basic cooking skills, like how to wash sushi rice, how to cook sushi rice, tamagoyaki, and how to prepare all ingredients. At the same time, I still had to learn lots more about seafood preparation and cooking as well. I still remembered one day my master asked me if I had to wait a few more years to learn even more basic culinary skills, would I be able to last? My answer was yes without a second thought. Then my master said we would start a new journey tomorrow. At the moment I cried.
Three years after that, I was working as a sushi chef in a high-end sushi restaurant in Osaka. Then, I earned the spot of head chef in San Francisco at a fine-dining sushi restaurant in only a little more than 10 years.
At work, I teach my guests what ingredients they are eating and what ingredients are the best for certain seasons. I hope all my guests know not only the name of the food or ingredients but also the beauty of Japanese cuisine. In 2012, Mr. Fresh Catering was founded, which means the start of another new chapter for me.
During the past ten years, I’ve been met with difficulty and even have experienced suffering, yet I still gained a lot over the years, much more than I ever thought possible.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have encountered some difficulties in the past ten years, but the most difficult time was the COVID-19 pandemic. What was tormenting me the most is whether to continue on this path. But thinking of my own hard work and dedication, I decided to persevere. I’m very lucky that this was the right decision. No matter what the standard of success is, I have learned again that as long as I persist, I will be able to realize and reach my own definition of success.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Mr Fresh Catering?
My passion for sushi is evident in the quality of food we provide to our clients, which includes NBA teams. My strict training has taught me how to perfect the delicate process of making sushi rice, as well as how to clean and cut different kinds of premium fish. The right texture and thickness can bring out the best taste of each fish, resulting in a delicious and perfectly balanced sushi roll. After seven years of hard training, my skills were recognized, and we were invited to prepare the celebration dinner for the movie. ‘Jiro Dreams of Sushi.
I have always sourced the best fish from all over the world and have brought it back to our clients for many years. I am dedicated to innovation so that every guest enjoys our Japanese cuisine.
Mr. Fresh Catering is a fantastic service that will impress your guests. We offer a variety of menu options to choose from, and our experienced staff will work with you to ensure that your event is a success. We specialize in high-quality fish and seafood. Additionally, our culinary display is second to none. We provide live omakase-style sushi stations, along with custom menus to ensure that your celebration is remembered. Also, we can develop a custom package to help your event stand out. From special occasions such as weddings and birthdays to corporate events and holiday parties, Mr. Fresh Catering can provide the food and entertainment you require. Our team of experienced and professional chefs can also create an unforgettable yakitori and hibachi catering experiences for your event. We use only the freshest ingredients, and our grilling techniques are sure to impress. With our delectable cuisine and attentive waiting staff, we’ll ensure your event is one to remember. We serve Los Angeles, Orange County, and all of Southern California. Contact us today to learn more.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I have encountered some difficulties in the past ten years, but the most difficult time was the COVID-19 pandemic. What was tormenting me the most is whether to continue on this path. But thinking of my own hard work and dedication, I decided to persevere. I’m very lucky that this was the right decision. No matter what the standard of success is, I have learned again that as long as I persist, I will be able to realize and reach my own definition of success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mrfreshcater.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrfreshsushicatering/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrfreshcater
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBClNaL878sYHf3jSF5dNFQ
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mr-fresh-catering-beverly-hills-3
