Elevated Sushi Catering
Kanpai Sushi offers live chef experiences for
private gatherings and events in Hawai‘i.
KANPAI!
“Kanpai” is a common phrase used to say “cheers” or give a celebratory toast in Japanese.
Founded by Chef Eric Oto, Kanpai Sushi is committed to supporting and sourcing local wherever possible, We offer a selection of fresh seafood with bespoke pairings and Japan-grown rice milled on the island of O‘ahu. Working directly with local farmers, purveyors and small businesses, we contribute to fostering a more sustainable food system in the Aloha State.
OUR SERVICES
LIVE SUSHI BAR
An elevated dining experience with locally curated selections, prepared live by Chef Eric.
From cocktail hour to dinner party, cater your next event with our signature, local-inspired dishes.
CATERING
Born and raised on the island of O‘ahu, Chef Eric Oto developed a passion for the culinary arts at the age of four, when he caught his first fish with a bamboo cane. He spent much of his childhood near the ocean, learning the philosophies of respecting and appreciating Hawai‘i’s ecosystem from his father, a lifelong farmer and fisherman. Today, Chef Eric's reverence for the ocean can be seen and tasted in his cuisine. He enjoys fishing along the shoreline, offshore or freediving, often preparing his catches with techniques including drying, smoking and pickling.
With more than two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, Chef Eric has honed his skills at some of the world's most prestigious resorts. He served as Executive Chef at G.LION HAWAII leading culinary operations at Quiora and La Vie at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. Previously, he served as Chef de Cuisine of Hoku’s at The Kahala Hotel & Resort and as Sous Chef on the opening team of the Four Seasons O'ahu at Ko Olina. Notably, Chef Eric spent more than a decade at the renowned Halekulani, assuming pivotal positions including Sous Chef at Orchids restaurant and Banquet Chef, overseeing the events culinary program.
Committed to supporting Hawai‘i’s next generation of chefs, Chef Eric has served as a chef-mentor for the Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation and the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Jeune Chef Competition. He is on the advisory board of the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program.
ABOUT CHEF ERIC
From poke to paella, Chef Eric will teach your group (minimum 10 guests) how to prepare a special dish while learning about its history and cultural significance.