Hajime Sato Becomes First Sushi Chef to Win Regional James Beard Award.

On June 10, the results of the 2024 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards were unveiled at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Often referred to as the Oscars of the culinary world, this prestigious recognition celebrates outstanding achievement among the top hospitality talent in the nation. The coveted title of Best Chef: Great Lakes was awarded to Hajime Sato, making history as the first sushi chef to garner this regional honor.

Sato’s establishment, Sozai, located in Clawson, Michigan, is renowned for its sustainable seafood and sushi offerings. He has been a pioneer in the commitment to sustainability in the culinary sphere since 2009.

This accolade marks not only a first for sushi chefs but also a significant win for Michigan chefs in the Best Chef category, the first in over 20 years. Sato emphasizes the importance of these awards in highlighting critical issues like sustainability: “I didn’t have a voice, but now, thanks to James Beard, I have a voice,” he expressed while accepting the award (via YouTube).

Hajime Sato’s goal for his restaurant is both simple and profound: “Can I influence one person’s life through the sushi I serve?” he pondered while on stage at the 2024 James Beard Awards (via YouTube). Guests looking for typical California rolls or spicy tuna may find themselves disappointed. Instead, Sozai provides a personal omakase dining experience with the chef curating the dishes for the patrons.

The experience lasts several hours and includes multiple courses, with prices ranging from $90 to $170. The focus is on sustainable seafood and various sushi styles, including sashimi and nigiri, along with some exciting options. There is also a dedicated omakase menu featuring only vegetables and tofu, entirely free of seafood or meat. Sato tailors the dishes during service based on the diners’ preferences and responses. It is recommended to pair the courses with suggested sakés — with Sato also being a certified saké advisor.

In the realm of national honors, Portland’s Langbaan received the 2024 Outstanding Restaurant award at the James Beard Awards, while Michael Rafidi of Albi in Washington, D.C., was recognized as Outstanding Chef. Best New Restaurant went to Dakar NOLA in New Orleans, and Emerging Chef was awarded to Masako Morishita of Perry’s in Washington, D.C.

Additionally, a diverse and commendable group of chefs won regional Best Chef awards. Best Chef: California was given to Lord Maynard Llera of Kuya Lord, Los Angeles, and David Standridge claimed Best Chef: Northeast for the Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic, Connecticut. Christina Nguyen took home the Midwest accolade for Hai Hai in Minneapolis, while the Texas award went to Ana Liz Pulido of Ana Liz Taqueria in Mission.

Hajime Sato’s sushi restaurant victory was not the only groundbreaking event that night; Paul Smith’s win for his establishment 1010 Bridge was the inaugural James Beard Award for a West Virginia restaurant in a main category.

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