The recently rebranded Fumi Restaurant played host to Chef Aoki Toshikatsu from Tokyo’s famous Ginza Sushi Aoki recently, and we were lucky enough to catch up with the sushi master in person.

Chef Aoki’s signature Edomae style and East-meets-West flair was evident in the delicious dishes we sampled. From a deconstructed Marinated Salmon Roe Sushi with salted kombu and wasabi and a refreshingly crisp Grouper (salted and aged for 20 days on ice) with Muscat Grape with Ponzu Sauce to a mouth-watering Toro Mille Feuille, each plate perfectly showcased the chef’s unique ability to transform traditional sushi into a true epicurean experience.

Afterwards, we sat with the second-generation sushi master to find out more about his family legacy (his father, Aoki Yoshi, founded Sushi Aoki), international influences and the impression he hopes to give Fumi diners.

Did you always have a passion for sushi?

It’s definitely a passion for me, but I always knew I would go into the sushi business. In Japan, if the father runs a business, it’s a common practice for one of his sons to continue that legacy. Since my father opened Sushi Aoki, I always knew on some level that I would follow in his footsteps, too.

You travel around the world constantly. How do international flavours influence your personal style?

As a sushi chef, wherever I travel, my first thought when trying any new ingredient is whether it complements with rice. Tangy Italian balsamic vinegar is one of my favourite western ingredients. I also incorporate a wide variety of rock salts like Himalayan pink salt into my sushi sauces.

What is the biggest impression you want to give Fumi diners?

Sushi cuisine is constantly evolving. I want to educate diners on what traditional sushi is, and then take them on a journey and allow them to taste innovative sushi as well. For Fumi diners, I particularly want to present sushi crafted from local ingredients.

Thank you.

Keep your eye out for Chef Aoki Toshikatsu’s pop-up menu at Fumi early next year.  

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Images: Gigi Ip