What is the first job that taught you real responsibility?
The first job that taught me real responsibility was my apprenticeship. As an apprentice, my chef mentor taught us and trusted us to be responsible to hold a station from the beginning. Because of that, I apply that thought to my career and trust my staff and lead them to better their life.
What is a decision that changed the direction of your career?
Well, I never changed my career. I was eight years old and wanted to be a cook, so at 16 I did an apprenticeship. The major change I am grateful for is coming to Hawai‘i in 1990 and learning about the culture and food.
Name one skill you’re still actively working on to improve?
Haha, I am perfect the way I am as we all are. We are all perfect individuals as much as we do the right things in life and how we use our mind. Yet, I learn every day in order to better myself. I am always working on refining my cooking and developing new ideas.
How do you handle pressure when the stakes are high?
I have learned throughout the years how to work under pressure. You have to stay focused to keep the service moving. There are moments that can be intense because of the volume, but that is part of the job. In our restaurant, the food has to be perfect so there is a lot of pressure you need to be able to handle. I always compare it to being a Navy SEAL—you have to make it or quit.
What is something you once feared in business but now embrace?
Don’t be afraid to take the punches as a leader. Make the right or wrong decision, but keep the business moving.
Tell us about one moment that reminded you why you love what you do?
When I am cooking and making people happy through the food, it is like meditation to me. When you love what you do and do what you love, it is always better. So trust me, I put a lot of love in my food.
How do you stay grounded as your responsibilities grow?
My philosophy is to be like the bamboo tree that is deeply rooted and grounded. Be strong and shoot up to your dreams and direction, but also be very flexible and swing with the way of life.
