SASHI sushi + sake lounge

partner

Never content to rely on the past, each morning, Chef Makoto asks himself the same question: “What’s possible?”

With that in mind, he calmly walks the city’s fish and farmer’s markets, carefully choosing the most flavorful seasonal ingredients —and imagining something fresh, new and delectable for the Sashi menu.

From his daily journey come many of Sashi’s globally inspired and locally beloved dishes like Korean Short Ribs with Wasabi Chimmichuri and Seared Ahi over Homemade Udon Noodles in a Spicy Tomato Sauce.

Growing up in Nagoya, Japan, Chef Makoto began his career in the kitchen at age 15. For over ten years, he trained in the classics under Master Sushi Chef Makoto Kumazaki, gaining centuries of knowledge with tradition and discipline.

Passionate to keep growing, he moved to New York where Chef Masaharu Morimoto recruited him. The opportunity was eye opening. Under Morimoto’s direction, Makoto learned to meld classic Japanese cuisine with cooking styles from all over the world. During his 6 years with Morimoto, Makoto opened new restaurants in Manhattan, Washington DC, and Tokyo. Morimoto Tokyo earned a coveted Michelin star.

Chef Makoto also performed as a sous chef in 13 episodes of the Food Network’s hit show, Iron Chef.

Now Chef Makoto has Sashi to call his own. As Executive Chef and partner, his signature style is true to his roots—yet fun and adventurous at the same time.

read more about Makoto's approach at Sashi