Hungru.
Photo by James Beard Foundation

Masako Morishita

Japanese Comfort FoodKobe-style Home CookingModern Izakaya ClassicsWashoku Traditional Flavors

Quick Actions

Follow

About Masako Morishita

Masako Morishita is a self-taught chef from Kobe, Japan, who transitioned from a career as an NFL cheerleader for the Washington Commanders to become a James Beard Award-winning executive chef. She is renowned for revitalizing the historic Perry's in Washington D.C. with a menu focused on the nostalgic, home-cooked flavors of her childhood.

★Awards & Recognition

James Beard Foundation: Emerging Chef Wi… (2024)Eater DC: Chef of the Year (2023)StarChefs: Rising Star Chef Award (2022)

Chef Timeline

2013
Moved to the United States
N/A

Moved from Kobe, Japan to Washington, D.C.

2014-2018
NFL Cheerleader
Washington Commanders

Served as a cheerleader while pursuing her passion for cooking on the side.

2020
Launched Otabe Pop-up
Otabe

Started a successful Japanese comfort food pop-up that gained significant local attention.

2022
Appointed Executive Chef
Perry's

Took over the kitchen at the long-standing Adams Morgan institution.

2022
StarChefs Rising Star
Perry's

Recognized as a Rising Star in the D.C. culinary scene.

2024
James Beard Award Winner
Perry's

Won the prestigious Emerging Chef award.

Insights

Key Information

Masako Morishita is a self-taught chef from Kobe, Japan, who transitioned from a career as an NFL cheerleader for the Washington Commanders to become a James Beard Award-winning executive chef. She is renowned for revitalizing the historic Perry's in Washington D.C. with a menu focused on the nostalgic, home-cooked flavors of her childhood.

Customer Perception

Customers frequently praise the 'soul-warming' nature of her dishes, noting that her food feels personal and authentic rather than overly commercial. Reviews often highlight her ability to make Japanese comfort food accessible yet sophisticated, with the Miso Butter Clams being a universal favorite.

Cuisine Highlights

Japanese Comfort FoodKobe-style Home CookingModern Izakaya ClassicsWashoku Traditional Flavors

News

  • Masako Morishita wins the 2024 James Beard Award for Emerging Chef.
  • Featured in James Beard Foundation's 'Achieving Her American Dream' series in July 2024.
  • Named Eater DC's Chef of the Year for her transformative work at Perry's.

Restaurants

Perry's (Washington, D.C.), Otabe (Pop-up)

Iconic dishes

Miso Butter Clams, Japanese Potato Salad, Pork Gyoza, Grilled Onigiri, Mama's Curry

Additional Details

Before taking the helm at Perry's, Masako gained a cult following through her pop-up, Otabe. She often cites her grandmother's recipes as the primary inspiration for her culinary style, aiming to bring 'true Japanese home cooking' to the American palate.

Data freshness: 3mo ago

Dishes

No dishes linked to this chef yet.

Restaurants by Masako Morishita

Reviews on restaurants by Masako Morishita

Loading reviews...

News Feed

Loading...