Masa Takayama Biography: Daughter, Net Worth, Wikipedia, Height, Age, Siblings, Children, Restaurants

Masa Takayama is a renowned Japanese chef and restaurateur, widely recognized as the owner of Masa, a prestigious three-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in Manhattan, New York City.

He has earned a reputation for his inventive take on traditional Japanese cuisine, especially sushi, and has expanded his culinary influence with other ventures such as Bar Masa and Kappo Masa.

Profile

• Full Name: Masa Takayama
• Stage Name: Masa Takayama
• Born: 1, May 1954
• Age: 70 years old
• Birthplace: Kuroiso, Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Japan
• Nationality: Japanese
• Occupation: Chef
• Height: unknown
• Parent: unknown
• Siblings: 4
• Spouse: Hisako Ishii (Divorced)
• Children: 3
• Relationship: Divorced
• Net Worth: $10 million

Early Life And Education

Masa Takayama was born on May 1, 1954, in Kuroiso, Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Japan. He was raised in a family with four siblings, though their personal details about them and his parents remain private.

Takayama attended school through high school, initially aiming to become a surgeon before discovering his passion for the culinary arts. He is of Japanese descent, and while his religious beliefs are not widely discussed, specific details are not publicly available.

Career

Masa Takayama’s culinary journey began in Tochigi, Japan, where he worked at his family’s fish market, igniting his passion for cooking. At the age of 18, he moved to Tokyo to pursue formal training, spending eight years apprenticing at the esteemed Ginza Sushi-ko under the guidance of sushi master Jiro Ono.

This rigorous apprenticeship refined his skills and deepened his dedication to sushi, inspiring him to bring his unique vision to the United States, where he aimed to create an unparalleled dining experience.

In 1980, Takayama opened his first restaurant, Saba-ya, in Los Angeles, which marked the beginning of his influence on the American culinary landscape. He later renamed the establishment Ginza Sushi-ko, establishing it as a beloved institution in Beverly Hills.

Takayama’s ability to blend traditional sushi techniques with innovative flavors quickly set new standards for sushi dining in America, earning him widespread recognition. His growing success culminated in the 2004 opening of Masa, located in the Time Warner Center in New York City, where the restaurant swiftly gained acclaim and earned three Michelin stars.

At Masa, Takayama offers an exceptional omakase dining experience that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation. The restaurant’s hinoki wood sushi counter and tranquil ambiance contribute to the overall sensory experience, making it a unique destination for sushi enthusiasts.

Expanding his culinary influence further, Takayama has opened additional ventures, including Bar Masa and Tetsu, each reflecting his commitment to both traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine.

Alongside his culinary endeavors, Takayama remains actively involved in charitable initiatives, supporting his community and fostering a deeper connection with his patrons.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @chefmasanyc

Personal Life

Masa Takayama was married to Hisako Ishii, a Japanese woman he met while working at a sushi bar in Orange County, California, in 1979.

The couple had three children before eventually separating. One of their daughters, Catherine Takayama, followed in her father’s culinary footsteps and became a pastry chef at The French Laundry.

While less is known about his other children, it is understood that they live in Los Angeles. Takayama remains closely connected with his family, frequently mentioning them in interviews and expressing pride in their achievements.

Net Worth

Masa Takayama’s net worth is estimated at approximately $10 million, primarily earned through the success of his renowned restaurants, including the three-Michelin-starred Masa in New York City and Bar Masa in Las Vegas.