Jiro Ono (chef)

Jiro Ono (chef)

Jiro Ono behind the counter

Jiro Ono (born October 27, 1925) is a renowned Japanese sushi chef and owner of the Sukiyabashi Jiro restaurant in Tokyo, Japan. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest sushi craftsmen alive and has been honored with numerous accolades for his contributions to the culinary arts.

Early Life

Jiro Ono was born in the city of Tenryū, which is now part of Hamamatsu, in Shizuoka Prefecture. From a young age, he was drawn to the culinary world, beginning his apprenticeship in sushi making at the age of nine. His early experiences in the kitchen laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to the art of sushi.

Career

Jiro Ono opened his own sushi restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, in 1965. Located in the Ginza district of Tokyo, the restaurant is known for its meticulous attention to detail and the exceptional quality of its sushi. Jiro's approach to sushi is characterized by simplicity and precision, focusing on the purity of flavors and the perfect balance of ingredients.

Under Jiro's leadership, Sukiyabashi Jiro earned three Michelin stars, a testament to its excellence and the high regard in which it is held by culinary experts worldwide. The restaurant has become a pilgrimage site for sushi enthusiasts, with reservations often required months in advance.

Philosophy

Jiro Ono's philosophy centers around the pursuit of perfection. He believes in the importance of mastering the basics and continually refining one's skills. His dedication to his craft is evident in his daily routine, which involves rigorous preparation and a deep respect for the ingredients he uses.

Jiro emphasizes the significance of each step in the sushi-making process, from selecting the freshest fish to preparing the rice with precision. His commitment to quality and consistency has set a standard in the sushi world that few can match.

Legacy

Jiro Ono's influence extends beyond his restaurant. He has trained numerous apprentices, many of whom have gone on to open their own successful sushi establishments. His sons, Yoshikazu and Takashi, have followed in his footsteps, with Yoshikazu working alongside him at Sukiyabashi Jiro and Takashi running a branch in Roppongi Hills.

Jiro's life and work were the subject of the acclaimed documentary "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," which brought his story to a global audience and highlighted his dedication to his craft.

Barack Obama and Shinzo Abe at Sukiyabashi Jiro, April 2014

Notable Guests

Sukiyabashi Jiro has hosted many notable guests, including world leaders and celebrities. In April 2014, Barack Obama, then President of the United States, dined at the restaurant with Shinzō Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan. This visit underscored the international recognition of Jiro's culinary expertise.

Related Pages

• Sushi
• Michelin Guide
• Japanese cuisine
• Jiro Dreams of Sushi