(From left to right) Sam Liu, Tony Sato & Jimmy Khov hold a unique, yet fitting partnership in the restaurant. Starting off as General Manager (Liu), Executive Sushi Chef (Sato) & Head Barman (Khov) of Miyagi, the trio (2004) decided to take over as owners of the successfully established restaurant.

Liu might be considered the original face of Miyagi, considering he has been with the restaurant since its beginning (8 years). Regular clientele might describe Liu as the face of Miyagi because “his smile is the first thing you see as you walk in,” says Jodi P. of Carmichael.

“I love to see the customers we have. It makes my job easier and something to look forward to,” explains Liu.

With fresh fish coming in daily, Shokunin Tony Sato creates his original sushi fare with care and patience. His creativity is portrayed in his food he prepares and stems from his 35 years of experience as a sushi chef. Having pioneered specific techniques in the art of Sacramento sushi, many notable executive chefs have worked with or under Sato in the past.

“I’ve been doing sushi here in Sacramento for a very long time. I have seen many changes in sushi here, some for better, some for worse.”

Khov has been with Miyagi for over 7 years, having been hired on as a busser in 2002, he quickly moved up and became a bartender and eventually a co-owner in October of 2004. Khov graduated in 2004 from Sacramento State with a Communication Studies degree. As an Alum of Sacramento State, Khov pursued the University as a future establishment. The Sacramento State branch of Miyagi Sushi opened in 2009.

“It’s a great way to get back on campus. To work of course! My mind has already been fed, it’s time to feed others!”