Jiro Ono is a world-renowned Japanese chef best known for his mastery of sushi. As the owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro, a prestigious Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in Tokyo, he has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of sushi-making. His incredible skills and dedication have earned him international recognition, making him a true icon in the culinary world.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Jiro Ono (小野 二郎)
Birthdate	October 27, 1925
Age	99 years old
Birthplace	Tenryū, Shizuoka, Japan
Nationality	Japanese
Profession	Chef, Restaurateur
Restaurant	Sukiyabashi Jiro
Famous For	Sushi Mastery, Michelin Stars
Net Worth	$5 Million
Marital Status	Married
Children	Yoshikazu Ono, Takashi Ono

Early Life of Jiro Ono

Jiro Ono was born on October 27, 1925, in Tenryū, Shizuoka, Japan. From a young age, he showed a passion for food, but his journey to becoming a master sushi chef was not easy. At just seven years old, he began working in restaurants, learning the basics of traditional Japanese cuisine. His early life was filled with hardships, but he remained committed to his dream.

In his teenage years, Jiro became an apprentice at a sushi restaurant, where he learned the fundamentals of Edomae-style sushi. Over the years, he honed his skills, developing his own unique techniques that would later revolutionize the sushi world.

The Journey to Becoming a Sushi Master

Jiro Ono’s journey to culinary greatness was filled with dedication and perseverance. He worked in various sushi restaurants across Japan, gaining experience and refining his techniques.

By the age of 26, he became a fully trained sushi chef, and in 1965, he opened Sukiyabashi Jiro, a small sushi restaurant in Tokyo’s Ginza district. His goal was simple yet ambitious—to serve the best sushi in the world. Through hard work and an unwavering commitment to quality, he achieved this dream.

Sukiyabashi Jiro – The Legendary Sushi Restaurant

Sukiyabashi Jiro is one of the most prestigious sushi restaurants in the world. It gained global fame when it became the first sushi restaurant to receive three Michelin stars. Located in a modest 10-seat space in a Tokyo subway station, it serves some of the finest handcrafted sushi using the freshest ingredients.

Jiro Ono personally inspects the fish and rice used in his restaurant, ensuring unmatched quality. His meticulous techniques and traditional sushi preparation methods have made Sukiyabashi Jiro a must-visit for sushi lovers worldwide.

Michelin Stars and Global Recognition

In 2007, Sukiyabashi Jiro was awarded three Michelin stars, a testament to Jiro’s culinary excellence. However, in 2019, the restaurant lost its Michelin rating because it no longer accepted public reservations. Despite this, it remains one of the most exclusive and highly regarded sushi restaurants in the world.

Jiro Ono’s Dedication to Perfection

Jiro Ono is known for his unwavering dedication to the art of sushi-making. His philosophy is simple:

“You must dedicate your life to mastering your skill. That’s the secret of success.”

Even in his 90s, he continued to work at his restaurant, ensuring every piece of sushi met his high standards. His passion and commitment to perfection have inspired countless chefs and food enthusiasts around the world.

Jiro Ono’s Influence on the Culinary World

Jiro Ono’s influence extends beyond his restaurant. His techniques and philosophy have shaped the way sushi chefs approach their craft. Many aspiring chefs have trained under him, hoping to learn from the legendary master.

His son, Yoshikazu Ono, has taken on the responsibility of continuing his father’s culinary legacy. Under his guidance, Sukiyabashi Jiro maintains its reputation as one of the finest sushi establishments in the world.

Jiro Dreams of Sushi – The Iconic Documentary

Jiro Ono’s life and work were showcased in the 2011 documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Directed by David Gelb, the film provides an in-depth look into Jiro’s daily routine, his pursuit of perfection, and the philosophy behind his sushi-making.

The documentary received critical acclaim and introduced Jiro’s legacy to a global audience, further solidifying his status as a culinary icon.

Personal Life and Family

Jiro Ono is a private person, but it is known that he is married and has two sons, Yoshikazu Ono and Takashi Ono.

• Yoshikazu Ono works alongside his father at Sukiyabashi Jiro, continuing the family’s sushi tradition.
• Takashi Ono runs his own sushi restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi, following in his father’s footsteps.

Despite his fame, Jiro remains humble and dedicated to his craft, prioritizing sushi-making over personal fame.

Jiro Ono’s Net Worth and Success

Jiro Ono has an estimated net worth of $5 million. His earnings come from his world-famous restaurant, his documentary, and various culinary accolades.

Even though Sukiyabashi Jiro is small in size, its high-quality sushi and elite reputation have made it one of the most expensive and exclusive restaurants in the world.

Awards and Achievements

Jiro Ono’s culinary excellence has earned him numerous awards, including:

• Three Michelin Stars (2007-2019)
• Japanese Order of the Rising Sun (2014) – Awarded by the Japanese government for his contribution to Japanese cuisine
• Global Recognition as the world’s greatest sushi master

The Future of Sukiyabashi Jiro

As Jiro Ono approaches 100 years old, the future of Sukiyabashi Jiro rests in the hands of his son, Yoshikazu Ono. Many believe that Yoshikazu will continue his father’s legacy, ensuring that the tradition of excellence lives on for generations.

Final Thoughts on Jiro Ono

Jiro Ono is more than just a sushi chef—he is a legend in the culinary world. His dedication, discipline, and passion for sushi-making have made him an inspiration for chefs around the globe. Despite his age, his legacy lives on through his restaurant, his sons, and the many chefs he has influenced.

His story is a testament to the power of dedication and mastery, proving that true success comes from lifelong commitment to one’s craft.

Conclusion

Jiro Ono is more than just a sushi chef—he is a living legend whose dedication and passion have redefined the world of Japanese cuisine. Through Sukiyabashi Jiro, he has set the gold standard for sushi, inspiring chefs and food lovers across the globe.

Even at 99 years old, his commitment to perfection remains unchanged, proving that true mastery comes from a lifetime of dedication. While the future of his restaurant now rests in the hands of his son, Yoshikazu Ono, Jiro’s legacy will live on as an inspiration for generations to come.

FAQs

Who is Jiro Ono?
Jiro Ono is a legendary Japanese sushi chef and owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro, one of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world.

How old is Jiro Ono?
Jiro Ono was born on October 27, 1925, making him 99 years old as of 2025.

What is Jiro Ono’s net worth?
Jiro Ono has an estimated net worth of $5 million, primarily earned from his world-renowned restaurant Sukiyabashi Jiro.

What makes Jiro Ono’s sushi special?
Jiro’s sushi is known for its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and freshness, along with his meticulous preparation techniques.

Does Sukiyabashi Jiro still have Michelin stars?
No, Sukiyabashi Jiro lost its Michelin stars in 2019 because it stopped accepting public reservations.

Who will take over Sukiyabashi Jiro?
Jiro Ono’s eldest son, Yoshikazu Ono, is expected to continue his father’s sushi legacy.

Is Jiro Dreams of Sushi a true story?
Yes, Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a documentary that explores Jiro Ono’s life, work, and his relentless pursuit of sushi perfection.

How much does it cost to eat at Sukiyabashi Jiro?
A meal at Sukiyabashi Jiro can cost over ¥40,000 ($270 USD) per person, depending on the menu.

Where is Sukiyabashi Jiro located?
Sukiyabashi Jiro is in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan, inside a subway station, making it one of the most exclusive sushi restaurants in the world.

Does Jiro Ono still make sushi?
Despite his age, Jiro Ono still oversees operations at his restaurant, though his son Yoshikazu manages most of the work.

For More Updates Visit: Fortune Magazine