We had the good fortune of connecting with Yuki Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yuki, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

To be honest, I would have never thought of starting my own business until the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world. Working at a restaurant and my son being forced to homeschool, the pandemic completely changed my world. I was forced to start my own business, but after sharing my original sukiyuki bowl to many of my wonderful customers and receiving so many complements, I truly thought everything was meant to be. Now my business is expanding to not just a to-go bento but selling my original truffle sauce ,private catering and events. I am thrilled to expanding and sharing my original foods to more people out in this city of Angels.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The most thing I learned from starting my business was that tough time truly did bring opportunity. Until the pandemic, I worked at restaurants as sushi chef at night times, making me spend very limited time with my son. Ever since I started running my own business, I am able to work flexible hours and spend a lot more time with him. Doing the “mom-job” made me feel that I am his mother for the first time, and I am so grateful for what I have by not giving up during the pandemic. I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to all my family, friends, and customers who has shown great support!!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would definitely take them to Torrance farmers market and Redond beach!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I dedicate my shoutout to Genma Matsuyama( IG @gemnator) my ex-coworker at N/naka, my best friend, a small business owner just like me who definitely inspired me on starting my own. Thank you always and love you!

Website: https://sukiyuki-la.com/

Instagram: @sukiyukila

Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/Sukiyukila

Twitter: @sukiyukila

Facebook: sukiyuki la

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