My journey started as humble busboy in a small restaurant which inspired me to embark on the journey of being a chef, which was only 16 years ago!  I first met Akira Back a few years later when he recruited me to be a chef at Akira's Yellowtail restaurant in Las Vegas, a great opportunity.  Akira and I would consider each other as brothers and this restaurant has been a second home to me with friendly and professional colleagues. Everyday, I reflect on the cultures of the places I lived and worked in such as Jakarta, Hawaii, Las Vegas or Hanoi, and apply the same culinary styles and local ingredients I have learnt to create special dishes at Akira Back. Every time I see the customers leaving, it's with a smile on their faces, that makes me proud of my food.

I always knew my love for cooking from a young age, so at the age of 17, I got recruited and trained to become a  professional chef at a big restaurant in Japan, with particular emphasis on sashimi. The job has taken me to many places such as Las Vegas, Miami, Jakarta, Dubai...and have worked for many years with chef Akira Back in Aspen City, Colorado (USA). It's a very professional working environment and the team are fantastic!

Akira Back challenges my leadership everyday. How to be tough but most important, how to be gentle and diligent to bring the team together. I am inspired by my colleagues and we work to better each other everyday. 

My journey at JW Marriott Hanoi started right after I graduated from college as hotel receptionists for a few years. I love working at Akira Back and learnt a lot from the management to the operation of an international restaurant. And on my days off, I miss everyone at work very dearly. Food is my joy and Akira Back is my family. 

I'm grateful for that coincidence everyday. I have found my second family, everyone is lovely and respectful towards each other.