Meet Hidekazu Tojo, the Japanese-Canadian chef who revolutionized the culinary world with his innovative sushi creations.
However, Tojo’s story wouldn’t be possible without the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of Shigeru Hirai. Perhaps the one Japanese-Canadian businessman who played the most crucial role in introducing Japanese food to Vancouver.
Early Life and Training
Born on February 8, 1950, in Kagoshima, Japan, Tojo developed a passion for cooking at a young age. His mother, a vegetarian, encouraged him to experiment with different ingredients. By 12, Tojo was cooking dinner for his family every day.
In 1968, Tojo moved to Osaka to train as a chef. He honed his skills at Ohnoya, a renowned ryokan, for three years. Nevertheless, Tojo’s ambitions went beyond Japan.
He wanted to introduce sushi to the world.
A New Chapter in Canada
In 1971, Tojo arrived in Vancouver, Canada, with a suitcase full of dreams. He was sponsored by Shigeru Hirai, who owned Maneki Japanese Restaurant in Vancouver’s Japantown.
Hirai, a second-generation Japanese Canadian, had a vision to introduce Japanese food to the city. He saw an opportunity in Tojo, a talented young chef with a passion for innovation.
Tojo worked at Maneki, where he experimented with new ingredients and techniques. He created the California roll, a dish that would become a staple of Japanese cuisine in North America.
The California roll was a game-changer, hiding the seaweed and introducing Western palates to the delights of sushi.
The BC Roll and Beyond
Yet, Tojo didn’t stop there. In the 1980s, he created the BC roll, featuring barbecued salmon skin, cucumber, and avocado.
A dish showcasing Tojo’s innovative spirit and that became a staple of Japanese cuisine in Canada.
Tojo’s opened his own restaurant in 1988 and it quickly developed into a sensation. Celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Morgan Freeman, and Pierre Trudeau flocked to taste his creations.
A Legacy of Innovation
Tojo’s culinary achievements earned him legendary status, and he was recognized for his significant contributions to Japanese cuisine.
The Japanese government appointed him a Goodwill Ambassador for Japanese Cuisine in 2016, a prestigious honour bestowed upon only 13 chefs worldwide.
Still, Tojo’s success wouldn’t be possible without the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of Shigeru Hirai.
Hirai’s businesses, including Maneki, Fujiya, and Hi Genki, have played a significant role in introducing and popularizing Japanese food in Vancouver.
A Tribute to Shigeru Hirai
Shigeru Hirai’s contributions to the Japanese-Canadian community in Vancouver cannot be overstated. He created invaluable bridges between Japan and Canada through food.
His efforts introduced authentic Japanese and Japanese-Canadian cuisine to the city.
Hirai’s legacy extends beyond his businesses.
He has fostered a sense of community and cultural exchange between Japan and Canada, creating a culinary landscape that is unique and vibrant.
As we celebrate Tojo’s achievements, we must also recognize the role of Shigeru Hirai in making it all possible.
His vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to cultural exchange have left an indelible mark on the culinary world.
