The culinary empire of renowned Japanese chef, Chase Kojima, is facing upheaval as he departs from his role as executive chef at Sokyo in Pyrmont, and the closure of his two Senpai restaurants.
Chase Kojima made an indelible mark on Sydney’s culinary scene at the tender age of 29 when he founded the upscale Sokyo restaurant at The Star in 2011. His innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, blending edgy Japanese flavors he honed while working at Nobu restaurants with the traditional teachings of his chef father in San Francisco, garnered widespread acclaim.
In addition to his work at The Star, Kojima embarked on personal culinary ventures, introducing Sydneysiders to his signature bunless rice burgers and launching two Senpai restaurants in Chatswood and Burwood.
While both Senpai restaurants are presently listed as temporarily closed online, an Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) filing reveals that Senpai Dojo, with Kojima listed as a director, is undergoing liquidation.
John Refalo, the joint liquidator representing insolvency practitioners Moore Australia, has reported that a comprehensive report detailing the extent of debts to creditors is being finalized. However, Refalo refrained from providing an estimate of the debt amount at this stage, indicating that the liquidation process typically implies a terminal outcome for the businesses.
This development marks a poignant moment for Kojima, who continued to amass favorable reviews, notably introducing Sydney to its first ramen omakase experience with the opening of Senpai Ramen in Chatswood in March of the previous year. Despite his expanding culinary endeavors, Sokyo retained its coveted chef’s hat status, with the Good Food Guide 2023 commending its ability to strike a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.
As Kojima parts ways with Sokyo and the future of his Senpai restaurants remains uncertain, the culinary landscape in Sydney faces a notable transition.
