Jiro Dreams of Sushi: A Documentary About Work, Family, and the Unending Pursuit of Perfection

September 5, 2012

Jiro Ono is 85 years old. He runs a small sushi restaurant located in a Tokyo subway tunnel that seats 10 people. He has been working at his trade for over 70 years, and is considered to be the world’s greatest sushi chef.

Here’s one tidbit that floored me: Jiro’s restaurant has received a three-star Michelin Guide rating – which means that the restaurant is considered “exceptional cuisine,” and warrants a special journey to the country simply to eat the food. As of 2009, there were only 81 three-star restaurants in the world.

Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a documentary about Jiro’s life and approach to work, and in many ways a story about striving for perfection. But in addition to focusing on Jiro, the film also focuses on his family – especially Yoshikazu, his eldest son who at 50… still works for his father.

Huge thanks to Chris for making this recommendation. It’s a great film, and is the kind of documentary that leaves you both awed and inspired in equal measure.

Available on both Amazon Instant Video and Netflix Streaming.