Tojo's Restaurant: A Culinary Gem in Vancouver

For over three decades, Tojo's Restaurant has been a cherished gem in Vancouver's culinary landscape, attracting the attention of food critics, enthusiasts, and A-list celebrities alike.

Hidekazu Tojo: A Michelin Star Chef

At the heart of this establishment is Michelin Star chef Hidekazu Tojo, a culinary innovator widely recognized for transforming sushi from a niche delicacy into a mainstream sensation with the creation of the iconic California roll.

Reflecting on a Journey

Reflecting on his journey, Tojo recounted his move to Vancouver back in 1971, a significant moment in his life. “I came in 1971, long time ago, 53 years ago,” he reminisced.

Overcoming Skepticism

Facing skepticism about the Canadian palate's acceptance of sushi, Tojo creatively approached the challenge. “People said, ‘oh Tojo, no seaweed, Canadian people, they don’t eat sushi.’ OK, so I thought maybe I'll make it inside out and hide it,” he explained. With persistent effort, his innovation flourished, and soon after, the California roll became ubiquitous across North America.

A Culinary Creation's Name

While the world now knows this culinary creation as the California roll, Tojo refers to it by its original name. “They call it a California roll, but at that time, I called it ‘Inside out,’” he chuckled.

Reflecting on Legacy

Now in his 70s, Chef Tojo is taking a moment to reflect on his illustrious career and the legacy he wishes to impart through his upcoming documentary, *The Chef and the Daruma*. Scheduled to premiere at the Vancouver International Film Festival on October 6, the film delves deep into themes of immigration, identity, and transformation, painting a picture of Tojo’s early years as an immigrant from Japan.

Looking to the Future

Looking to the future, he remains passionate about his craft. “Because people, until [they] die, you know… eat,” he stated, emphasizing his dedication to culinary arts.

An Inspirational Story

As viewers prepare to experience *The Chef and the Daruma*, Tojo’s story not only celebrates his contributions to the culinary world but also invites reflection on the cultural exchanges that shape our dining experiences today. Don't miss this eye-opening documentary that promises to inspire!