When it comes to sushi, few chefs in Southern California possess the expertise and background of individuals like Chef Hiro-san from Mr. Fresh Sushi Catering. Recently, we had the honor of speaking with Chef Hiro-san to learn a little more about his background, how he entered the sushi catering industry, and his business, Mr. Fresh Catering.
Chef Hiro-san’s Background in the Culinary World
Interviewer: Hi, Chef Hiro-san. Can you introduce yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Chef Hiro-san: 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 was taught only basic cooking skills, like washing sushi rice, cooking sushi rice and tamagoyaki, and preparing all the ingredients. At the same time, I still had to learn lots more about seafood preparation and cooking.
I still remember 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 that moment, I cried.
Three years after that, I worked as a sushi chef in a high-end sushi restaurant in Osaka. In less than ten years, I earned the spot of head chef in San Francisco at a fine-dining sushi restaurant.
At work, I teach my guests what ingredients they are eating, and which are 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 experienced suffering, yet I still gained a lot over the years, much more than I ever thought possible.
About Mr. Fresh Catering: Chef Hiro-san’s Most Recent Venture
Interview: I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Mr Fresh Catering?
Chef Hiro-san: 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 and 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 various menu options, 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 and custom menus to ensure 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 necessary food and entertainment. Our team of experienced and professional chefs can also create unforgettable yakitori 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.
What Chef Hiro-san Learned During the COVID-19 Crisis
Interview: Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the COVID-19 crisis?Chef Hiro-san: I have encountered some difficulties in the past ten years, but the most difficult time was the COVID-19 pandemic. What tormented me the most was 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.
Book Mr. Fresh Catering for Your Next Big Event
Mr. Fresh Sushi Catering is Southern California’s top-rated yakitori, hibachi, and sushi catering service. To experience an unforgettable event with our experienced private sushi chefs and high-quality food, please call (323)-250-2460 or submit a contact us form, and Mr. Fresh Catering will get back to you soon. Feel free to follow Mr. Fresh Catering on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to stay updated on Chef Hiro-san’s latest delectable creations!
