Q&A with Toshi Kizaki, Master Chef / Izakaya Den and Sushi Den

Sushi Den and Izakaya Den are known as being some of the best destinations for Japanese fare in Denver, and master chef Toshi Kizaki is the man behind their top-notch sushi and globally influenced cuisine. The newer of the two, Izakaya Den, opened just last year in a sleek space complete with a bamboo garden, a patio, and a cocktail lounge. Izakaya Den brings to the scene a Japanese dining tradition that’s similar to Spanish tapas, offering small, shared plates and plenty of sake. After hearing so many rave reviews, I knew I had to chat with Toshi to learn what makes him tick, and how he manages to make the freshest sushi in Denver.

Q: Tell us why it’s important to offer global fare at Izakaya Den?

Denver is one of the top culinary cities.  We might get overlooked at times, but Denver’s dining public is well educated on cuisine and we like to keep them interested.  We introduced global and izakaya style cuisine to showcase the fun and convenience of sharing plates with dinner companions in an unpretentious style.

Q: How do you find inspiration for menu items?

We travel to Japan several times a year.  With our youngest brother at the fish markets in southern Japan, we know what is happening around the world and are able to secure the best product available.  We also enjoy sharing what we personally like as chefs.  Everything chosen on the menu is also done so with sake in mind.  Sake is an important part of the meal.

Q: What is the biggest challenge of being a chef? And biggest reward?

Being a chef isn’t just being in the kitchen.  It is about creativity, management and hospitality.  Knowing your audience is a big key to success.  Our biggest reward is seeing guests become regulars and bring their friends and family.

 Q: Tell us about your culinary background.

I am trained as a master chef and had sushi bar in Japan before I moved to Denver.  We opened Sushi Den in December 1984, and will be celebrating the 30th anniversary this year.

 Q: What do you most love about Colorado?

We love the people of Colorado.  It’s a wonderful state and people here are kind.

Q: What is something readers would be surprised to know about you or your business?

Our youngest brother lives in Southern Japan and gets up at 2 am every morning to choose fish for our restaurants.  All our fish selections have arrived at that popular fish market just off the Sea of Japan, which is in the southwest corner of the country.  Because of his relationships, we get the best selection of fish.  All fish has been inspected by the Japanese government agency equivalent of the FDA before it arrives to the fish market, and is inspected by US FDA when it arrives in less than 24 hours.