Born in Nakano, Tokyo, Owner/Chef Masa packed his bags as a teenager and traveled to Bronx, NY to help his uncle's Japanese fish & grocery store. Years of grueling apprenticeships and early morning battles at the fish markets inspired Masa with the passion to use only the finest, freshest ingredients.  He refuses to serve any sub-standard dish to his patrons.  Masa's dream to start his own restaurant awakened during his start at Sushi Say restaurant as a manager in NYC in 1985. After 10 years of experience as a Japanese seafood distributor, he decided to become a chef.

In 2004, Masa brought this same passion to Allendale, NJ and started a full service sushi bar and grill.  Masa religiously continues his daily shopping rounds at his secret seafood suppliers.  If you're lucky (or patient), you'll be seated in front of him to experience the freshest, most succulent sushi in town.