How a Master Sushi Chef Was Influenced by Texas Barbecue and Punk Music — Omakase

Sushi chef Yoshi Okai moved to Austin for the music scene. But when his band broke up, he applied his talents and passion for Texas barbecue to creating one of Austin's best omakase menus at Otoko

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[markstenberg]

Also worth noting: I cooked alongside Yoshi for several years, and he is the nicest guy. Defies every stereotype about yelling, hyper-masculine male chefs. He's humble, self-effacing, gracious and very funny. Was a great mentor and is such a good example of being really good at something but not letting it affect how you treat others.

[PerceptivePerceval]

Love this series.
But never thought I'd see Sushi, Texas Barbecue, Punk Music in the same sentence though.

[mansiashley]

Rocking that mullet, tattoos, fish fusion with texas bbq, what else do you need more? This has it all.
Thanks Eater.

[JohnQuach]

From rocker to master sushi chef, that's freaking awesome

[benyang]

Self taught unlike most sushi masters, this guy has his own unique style. He really doesn't care, it definitely looks like he is enjoying what he makes and accomplished. The way he smiles tells you how humble he is. Americans are a big bowl of mixed cultures and this guy is every bit of it

[suchanjv]

This is great!
I got to eat at Otoko last January. The best omakase experience I've ever had, by far. With the best sushi I've ever had. Chef Yoshi was the one who served us all night too.
The highlights to me were;
Kanpachi w/ meyer lemon zest
Shigoku Oyster w/ yuzu ponzu, smoked steelhead roe
Hirame
Hokkaido Uni (GREATEST EVER OMG)
Madai
Chawanmushi w/ maitake, shrimp, ginko nut, mitsuba, jamon Iberico, truffle oil
and for the greatest dessert course ever, Uni no Ikari (wrath of uni) which is Uni Ice Cream.
This meal alone is worth the entire trip to Austin. I plan to return someday.

[yellowflash]

*Yoshi Okai listens to punk, is a sushi chef & incorporates BBQ to his food. He's a real one*

[alanyong]

Hands down coolest sushi chef of this series

[moosedogg]

Every other Omakase: Irasshaimase
Chef Yoshi Okai: Welcome...

[GameGeekRob]

My dude said his recipe was better than his gran's. That's bold.

[lalakansai]

Hey I’m from osaka and I would definitely love to try his food. I know the fact that we, Japanese, tend to like keeping traditions as it was and is and yeah it’s important but still I would love to see something new as well. It’s unique. Much respect to him.
P.S. Japanese dudes saying that don’t wanna accept his style, I believe he doesn’t need customers like you either so don’t even worry.

[jakeaivilo]

I think this guy really enjoys every second of his job

[carolynthornton]

IN MY VIEW
The independent creative brilliance in this Chef is mind-boggling. I love it.

[Kim-zfdp]

Fascinating video on fusion cooking that has been elevated beyond its basic beginnings in the 1980s. He's elevating his Japanese cuisine with subtle nuances of Tex-Mex.

[DroFBs]

This guy seems to have an awesome personality. Open-mindedness, creativity, eclecticism, and a great attitude and passion about his work. I think I'll have to take a short trip to Texas.
Amazing work!!

[JacksonWalter]

I love Otoko. I usually get pizza at Home Slice and stumbled upon here walking around. Totally worth the price to dine at Otoko. It's probably my favorite Japanese restaurant here besides Uchi.

[gerryavalos]

You my friend are the definition of success. Embrace your own style, and workhard. Much respect

[Josh-vmbk]

This place is right behind Central Standard on South Congress. I've really wanted to try it out, but tickets are steep. I'm sold now though, definitely seems worth the experience.

[SaltheWriter]

Hmm might have to make a short road trip to see this guy before the summer ends.

[gabrielsacapano]

A dose of this kind of videos makes me so happy. Always on the look out for every episode.