Chef Info

Chef Kazuhiro Okochi

At KAZ Sushi Bistro, chef-owner Kazuhiro Okochi introduces an original concept—"Freestyle Japanese Cuisine."

Born and raised in Nagoya, Japan, Kaz first came to the United States in 1980 to study fine art. However, he soon realized that his true passion was the art of food, and he returned to Japan in 1983 to attend the Tsuji Culinary Institute in Osaka. At Tsuji, Kaz explored his interest in French, Japanese and Chinese cuisines while also developing his pastry and ice carving skills. Upon graduation he was offered a prestigious apprenticeship at Sushi-Gen, one of the preeminent sushi restaurants in Osaka. Kaz spent five years mastering his sushi skills, including the delicate art of preparing fugu (poisonous blowfish).

Eager to pursue his career in the United States, Kaz came to Washington, DC in 1988, where he spent 10 years working as executive chef at Sushi-Ko. While still at Sushi-Ko, Kaz began developing his own concept of "East meets West" sushi and original small dishes. He also was the first to introduce premium Japanese sake to the Washington, DC community. After launching a successful line of supermarket carryout sushi at Fresh Fields, Kaz decided to pursue his dream of opening his own restaurant.