Yamasaki Family | Toyosu Fish Market
Through a direct partnership with the Yamasaki family at the Toyosu Fish Market, Sushi-san receives daily deliveries of the best fresh fish and seafood available.
About Us
Sushi-san blends high-quality Japanese cuisine, warm hospitality, and golden-era hip-hop vibes across three Chicago locations: River North, Lincoln Park, and Willis Tower. From fresh sushi and binchotan-grilled dishes to blast-chilled Asahi and one of the largest selections of Japanese whisky in America with over 182 bottles and counting, every menu item reflects a commitment to top-tier ingredients and refined, simple technique.
To bring this vision to life, we’ve built strong relationships with purveyors who share our standards. Get to know the people and partnerships that make Sushi-san what it is.
Where we Source
Balfego Bluefin Tuna | Spain
Regarded as one of the most sustainable and premier Bluefin Tuna purveyors in the world, Balfegó delivers consistency, traceability, and rich, buttery cuts that are essential to our menu.
Martinez Seafood & Produce | Chicago
The exceptional seafood served at Sushi-san is rooted in a decades-long friendship between Chef Kaze Chan and Ted Martinez of Martinez Produce and Seafood, a family-run business based in Chicago’s South Water Market. Since meeting in the late nineties, Kaze and Ted have grown together—Kaze helping shape Chicago’s sushi scene, and Ted building deep sourcing relationships with markets across Japan. Today, they continue to work closely to bring in the highest-quality seafood, including Balfego Bluefin Tuna, and exclusive catches from Fukuoka and Tokyo.
Daimon Brewery | Osaka, Japan
Our private-label sake, Sake-san, is crafted in collaboration with the award-winning Daimon Brewery in Osaka, Chicago’s official sister city.. Sake Sommelier Daniel Bennett traveled to Japan to work hand-in-hand with the Daimon team, creating a sake that bridges both cultures and cities. “I set out to craft Chicago’s jizake, a gateway sake that represents Japan and Chicago all in one brew,” says Daniel. The label design, by artist Alex Payne, features a symbolic bridge connecting the skylines of Osaka and Chicago. Crisp, bright, and food-friendly, Sake-san is brewed to pair with bold flavors and is available exclusively by the bottle at Sushi-san.
Mars Distillery | Japan
Sushi-san proudly collaborates with some of Japan’s most respected distilleries, including Mars Distillery, known for its innovation and craftsmanship. Our partnership led to the exclusive Mars Single Barrel Komagatake San Edition Single Malt Japanese Whisky—bottled just for Sushi-san and crafted to complement our bold, umami-rich cuisine.
Stock Mfg. | Chicago
To ensure our team looks as sharp as the dishes we serve, Sushi-san works in partnership with Chicago-based Stock Mfg. Co. to craft our custom uniforms and exclusive merchandise. Known for blending fashion-forward design with durable functionality, Stock Mfg. has outfitted some of the finest restaurants and hotels worldwide. Their commitment to quality and local craftsmanship perfectly complements our bold, laid-back vibe.
Think Package | New York
Every Sushi-san takeout and catering order is designed to deliver the full Sushi-san experience, wherever you are. That’s why we partner with Think Package, a New York-based packaging company known for creative solutions and deep expertise in the food and beverage industry. Together, we’ve developed custom packaging that balances form and function, ensuring every order, whether dine-in, to-go, or catering, brings the same bold, high-quality aesthetic you expect from Sushi-san.
Our Team
Kaze Chan
Executive Chef Partner
A descendant of Vietnamese and Chinese heritage, Master Sushi Chef Kaze Chan has influenced Japanese cuisine across Chicago for nearly 30 years. Under the mentorship of Japanese Sushi Master, Shozu Iwamoto, Kaze-san began his formal training at the age of 20 in Boston, MA. Combining traditional Japanese techniques with his international heritage, Chan's cuisine has garnered high praise, including awards from Travel + Leisure and the Michelin Guide.
Matt Riordan
Executive Chef Partner
Matt Riordan is an Associate Partner and Divisional Executive Chef at Lettuce Entertain You, where he oversees the culinary vision for Ramen-san, Sushi-san, and the upcoming Crying Tiger. Since joining Lettuce in 2016, Matt has played a key role in shaping the San portfolio, from opening Sushi-san River North as Executive Chef to launching locations across the city, including Sushi-san Lincoln Park. A proud Chicago native with a passion for Southeast Asian flavors and mentoring his team, Matt brings bold, craveable dishes and a spirit of curiosity to everything he creates.
Darryl Smith
Managing Partner
Darryl Smith is a Partner at Sushi-san, bringing over two decades of hospitality experience to the team. His journey began in high school as a dishwasher, eventually leading him to management roles at iconic LEYE restaurants like Shaw’s Crab House, RPM Italian, and RPM Steak. A certified sommelier with a passion for service, Darryl opened Sushi-san in 2017, where he continues to learn and collaborate alongside Master Sushi Chef Kaze Chan. Under his leadership, Sushi-san has expanded to a second and third location in Willis Tower and Lincoln Park and introduced The Omakase Room at Sushi-san, offering a refined omakase experience in the heart of Chicago.
Bailey Evans
General Manager
Bailey Evans is the General Manager of Sushi-san Lincoln Park, bringing her leadership, passion for hospitality, and deep knowledge of the brand to our newest location. Before opening LP, Bailey led the team at Sushi-san River North, helping to shape the high-energy, guest-focused experience that defines Sushi-san.
Jackie & Shannon
Our Parties & Special Events Team
Our Parties & Special Events team at Sushi-san is here to turn any gathering into an unforgettable experience. Whether you're planning an intimate seated dinner, a lively birthday bash, or a full restaurant buyout, our team handles every detail, from curated menus to personalized touches, with energy, creativity, and signature San hospitality.