Growing up, we enjoyed watching the original Iron Chef and being introduced to Japanese cuisine as well as the culinary icon Master Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Watching his techniques, the joy he has when creating his dishes, and how it all comes together is phenomenal. Years later, we enjoyed dining at Morimoto Chelsea and had the pleasure of seeing him with all of his flair! Even seeing him during a Citi Taste of Tennis event ahead of the US Open, his passion and love for food, community, and coming together is always present!

As our cover star for our APR ISSUE #112, we sat down to talk to a man who is a Restaurateur, TV Personality, Author, Ambassador and Entrepreneur to find out about how he became a chef, his upcoming projects, and being the Grand Marshal of the Japan Parade on May 10th here in NYC.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What dish made you fall in love with food?

CHEF MASAHARU MORIMOTO: Sushi is the dish that made me fall in love with food. The artistry and the freshness involved in preparing sushi truly sparked my passion for cooking.

AM: When did you realize you wanted to be a chef?

CHEF MM: Before becoming a chef, I was set on becoming a professional baseball player. After I had a shoulder injury, I fully turned my passion to food and the rest is history.

AM: Where did you train and what kitchens did you cook in prior to opening your own restaurants?

CHEF MM: I trained in Hiroshima, Japan. I worked in traditional sushi shops before moving to America and becoming a chef at Nobu.

AM: How do you define your style of cooking?

CHEF MM: I blend traditional Japanese techniques with global influences. While I always honor the roots of Japanese cuisine, I also adapt my dishes to reflect the unique customs and flavors of the places where I’m serving them.

AM: Why is it important to do TV shows in addition to being a restaurateur, author, etc.?

CHEF MM: TV shows give me the chance to share my love for food with people around the world. It’s a way to connect with those who may not be able to visit my restaurants, but can still experience the essence of my cooking.

AM: What do you look for when it comes to opening a restaurant or concept?

CHEF MM: I look for a place where I can tell a story through my food, and where guests are excited to try something new. It’s about creating an experience that challenges the senses and brings people together through flavors they may have never encountered before.

AM: What do you love about Morimoto by the Sea on Holland America?

CHEF MM: Morimoto by the Sea on Holland America is something I’m very proud of. It gives me the chance to bring my flavors and techniques to the sea, offering guests a unique experience they can’t find anywhere else. I’m especially honored to be the Fresh Fish Ambassador, sharing the best fish with everyone onboard. The freshness of the ingredients and the setting make it a special place for both guests and myself.

AM: What does being involved in Japan Day and the parade mean to you?

CHEF MM: It is truly an honor to serve as the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Japan Parade. I am excited to share my Japanese heritage and celebrate this meaningful occasion with so many people. This parade is a beautiful way to connect with the community and showcase the richness of Japanese culture. It’s a moment to celebrate the traditions that have shaped me and continue to inspire my work.

AM: What are you looking forward to for the parade?

CHEF MM: Seeing the joy and energy as Japanese tradition blends with the spirit of the New York community is very exciting. It reminds me of how food and culture can unite people, creating meaningful connections across different backgrounds.

AM: How can people keep the celebrations going at Momosan Lexington between Apr 26 - May 10th?

CHEF MM: At Momosan Lexington, we’ve created a couple of special dishes and cocktails to celebrate the Japan Parade. You can enjoy our Okonomiyaki and The Last Petal cocktail, available now through May 10th.

AM: When you are not in your restaurants or at festivals, how do you take time for yourself?

CHEF MM: I’m always on the move. I often joke that my home is the airport, since I spend more time there than anywhere else. When I’m not traveling, I cherish the moments I spend with my wife. I'm turning 70 in May, so I'm trying to also just relax more.

AM: What can you tell us about your new NYC restaurant or upcoming projects?

CHEF MM: My new restaurant is opening at 1255 Broadway in NYC, and it’s going to be something very new and fresh for the city. I’m bringing in some of my favorite traditional Japanese techniques, but with a twist that I think will excite everyone. I can’t give away too much just yet, but I’m really looking forward to sharing it all soon.

AM: You can enjoy Japan Parade here in NYC on May 10th from 11am - 5pm on 72nd street between Central Park West and Columbus Ave.

IG @chef_morimoto

@momosanramen

@japanparadenyc

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Front/Back Cover, PG 16 + 22 Courtesy of Chef Morimoto | PG 19 - 22 Patrick Wymore/Netflix | PG 24 - 27 + PG 28 for 9CH3F ROUTIN3S Holland America |