From Basketball to Michelin Stardom: Chef Seigo’s Innovative Journey at 715 Sushi in LA
Discover the inspiring journey of Chef Seigo, the mastermind behind 715 Sushi in LA's Arts District. From basketball dreams to Michelin-starred sushi, Chef Seigo redefines modern dining with his innovative omakase experience. Explore his vision, his passion for artful dishes, and why 715 Sushi is a must-visit destination for foodies and sushi lovers alike.
What do basketball and Michelin-star sushi have in common? For Chef Seigo, the answer lies in passion, perseverance, and an unexpected twist of fate. Born and raised in Osaka, Japan—a city renowned for its vibrant food culture—Seigo's culinary journey began long before he picked up a knife. After moving to the U.S. with dreams of making it big on the basketball court, he found himself drawn to a different arena: the kitchen. Inspired by his grandfather’s sushi-making legacy, Seigo began honing his skills as a sushi chef, transforming his love for precision and creativity into a lifelong craft.
The Origin Story of 715 Sushi
When the pandemic shuttered restaurants across Los Angeles, many chefs were left searching for answers. For Seigo, this challenge became an opportunity. He began creating and selling bento boxes through Instagram, delivering meals to three pickup locations across the city. What started as a grassroots hustle quickly grew into a loyal following, leading him to open 715 Sushi in LA's Arts District.
Within just three months of its debut, 715 Sushi earned its first Michelin star—a moment so surreal that Seigo initially dismissed it as a scam. "I ignored the emails three times," he admits with a laugh. But the accolades haven’t changed his down-to-earth approach or the heart behind his craft.
Sushi, But Make It Art
Chef Seigo's vision for 715 Sushi is simple: to create something modern, innovative, and unforgettable. While LA is home to many traditional sushi spots, Seigo saw an opportunity to push boundaries. His menu highlights fresh, high-quality ingredients, with a particular focus on tuna.
“Tuna is the centerpiece of most omakase experiences,” Seigo shares. “We serve three cuts—lean, medium, and fatty—to showcase its depth and versatility.” Each dish is meticulously crafted, with an emphasis on aesthetics. “Before people eat, they see the dish. I want them to enjoy the beauty first,” he says.
The intimate setting of 715 Sushi elevates the experience even further. With only two seatings per night—one for six guests at 5 PM and another for eight to ten at 8 PM—diners are treated to a personalized, immersive journey through Seigo's culinary world.
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
His advice for aspiring restaurateurs? Stay curious. “Try different restaurants and foods, even ones outside your comfort zone. You’ll learn so much just by observing.”For Chef Seigo, the most rewarding part of running a restaurant isn’t the awards or recognition—it’s the connections. “When I was playing basketball, I didn’t make many friends outside the game. But as a sushi chef, I’ve built relationships with so many people,” he reflects.
Why 715 Sushi Deserves a Spot on Your List
From its humble beginnings to its meteoric rise, 715 Sushi is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the power of following one’s passion. Whether you’re drawn by its Michelin-star reputation, the artistry of its dishes, or the compelling story behind it all, one thing is clear: 715 Sushi isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.
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Chef Seigo's journey from basketball courts to Michelin-starred sushi artistry is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of passion. Whether you’re indulging in his exquisite Omakase or marveling at the artistry of his dishes, a visit to 715 Sushi promises to be an unforgettable experience.