DINING CONSULTANT + BRAND AMBASSADOR
"Japan's chefs and shokunin are the quintessential expression of Japanese culture."
I represent large companies, luxury restaurants and independent Japanese chefs and shokunin interested in opening additional restaurants abroad. My responsibilities include advising on cultural differences, design, service and branding and contract negotiation.
I am a partner at New York-based GHM (Gracious Hospitality Management) and brand ambassador for the Tokyo-based
a distinguished construction and design company that creates the world's most beautiful Japanese restaurants and sushiyas.
My unique experience as a Tokyo resident, James Beard Award-winning photographer and author have afforded me deep knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and Japan's culinary world.
Latest project:
SUSHI YOSHITAKE
at 550 Madison
New York, New York
GHM's Simon Kim hired me to recruit a shokunin and advise on this unique project. I selected acclaimed Ginza-based Michelin starred sushi shokunin Masahiro Yoshitake.
Opening in September, 2026, Sushi Yoshitake New York will be located in the iconic 550 Madison building in Midtown Manhattan. Masahiro Yoshitake will create an incomparable dining experience in an unparalleled setting.
Read more about Masahiro Yoshitake in my James Beard finalist coffee table book:
Sushi Shokunin: Japan's Culinary Masters.
Brand Ambassador for
ITAI KOMUTEN
Itai Komuten is a leading Japanese architecture and design firm specializing in interior design for sushi restaurants, Japanese restaurants and retail stores. As brand ambassador, I am dedicated to further promoting the company's outstanding work and the uniqueness of Japanese culture.
If you are interested in building and designing a Japanese restaurant in your country, please contact me.