How i got into sushi

People often ask me, how did you get into sushi anyway? Here’s the story.

I grew up fishing all over San Diego and Baja California. When I was 14 years old, Seaforth Sportfishing asked me if I was interested in a job, I quickly I jumped at the chance. Free trips (for life at Seaforth) and discounted tackle was right up my ally. Shout out to my Mom and Dad for taking me to work at 4am.

Years later in college, I was waiting tables at Downtown San Diego’s infamous night club Ole’Madrid. I grew tired of the scene and saw an ad for Sushi Chefs wanted with no experience necessary. My only thought was free food, haha!

After earning a degree in digital media design from Platt College, I got my first job as a graphic designer. While I loved designing and creating, I quickly realized that working in an office just wasn’t for me. Within six months I was drawn back again, training as a Sushi Chef.

It’s been 27 years now behind the cutting board and I still really don’t consider myself a chef. I’m still training and always trying to learn. I don’t believe you can ever truly become a Sushi Master. Well except for Mr Matsuhitsa or my current Sensei Kiyoto Matsumoto. I have a long way to go, but I love what I do and love to serve others. I’m beyond blessed.

I am currently looking for a brick and mortar restaurant location, but I am not in any hurry. My son is 12 and my goal is to have the Sushi Florist Bar up and running by the time he is 14 or 15, because I will need a good dishwasher… as a start.