In this conversation, Jesse shares his journey in the hospitality industry, detailing his early experiences working in his family's restaurant and the challenges he faced. He discusses his passion for hospitality, the impact of sobriety on his life and career, and the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jesse emphasizes the importance of self-care, accountability, and emotional awareness in both personal and professional contexts, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of sobriety and the new perspectives it has brought to his life. In this conversation, Jesse and Joshua explore the transformative journey of sobriety and its profound impact on personal relationships, professional efficiency, and leadership within the restaurant industry. They discuss the importance of self-care, mental health, and the cultural shifts in restaurant environments that promote a healthier work-life balance. Jesse shares insights on conflict resolution, the significance of curiosity in leadership, and the positive changes in staff gatherings. The discussion culminates in reflections on continuous improvement and the joy of living a mindful life free from the constraints of alcohol.
A first-generation Japanese Korean American, Jesse grew up in his family's restaurant, Fuji. Starting as an after-school dishwasher at age 14, he spent more than a decade working alongside his dad, Masaharu Ito, a celebrated chef, training in everything from prep and pastry to tempura and fish butchery. In 2016, Jesse opened Royal Sushi & Izakaya—and since opening, Jesse has been named an Eater Young Gun and one of Zagat's "30 Under 30." He has also received seven award nominations from the James Beard Foundation, most recently as a finalist for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic in 2025.
Jesse got sober during the pandemic. He was running on fumes and realized that working so hard simply wasn't sustainable. He began prioritizing his mental and physical health, and getting sober was a big part of that.
