Fourteen years ago Hiroki Ikeda attended Cherry Blossom Festival Events and realized that more authentic Japanese cultural events were needed to enhance the annual event.

She teamed up with Noriko Okamoto and out of their union was born the East Meets West Sushi Team.

Every year Ms. Ikeda, now Vice President and Cultural Liaison for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, invites Master Sushi Chefs to come from Japan and give a free demonstration of their skill (and a tasting!) at Phillips Flagship Restaurant on the Waterfront.

The 2000 event boasted thirty of the most respected sushi chefs in all of Japan.

This event is made possible through the generous donations of Ms. Ikeda and Mrs. Okamoto.