Mark Shim, Todai Houston’s Executive Chef and owner, began his culinary carrier 18 years ago as a Sushi Chef . After obtaining apprenticeship from a renowned Sushi Chef from Osaka, Japan, Mr. Akio Muranaka, Mark opened his first Japanese restaurant Awomatsu in the wall street financial district. Having lived in Asia and various parts of South America, Mark continued his culinary carreer with expansion of restaurants of various cultural background, such as Nutrisserie Gourmet, and Pastabilities Italian Restaurant. Mark's experience prompted to be recruited by international upscale Japanese restaurant Chain Todai, as a Corporate Chef, and later becoming owner of one of Todai's locations in Houston. As a Chef with training in both Asian and Western Cuisines, Mark is actively involved with sharing his experience and providing supports in the business and academic fields. The Culinary Institute Alain & Marie LeNôtre is very happy to have Chef Mark Shim as a member of our culinary team.