10/28/2025
In Japan, sushi legend Jiro Ono turned 100 on October 27, 2025, yet shows no signs of full retirement, declaring, "I plan to keep going for about five more years." The founder of Sukiyabashi Jiro—a 10-seat Ginza basement gem that held three Michelin stars from 2007 to 2019—earned Guinness recognition as the oldest three-star head chef at 93. Featured in the 2012 documentary *Jiro Dreams of Sushi*, he served dignitaries like Barack Obama, once shifting their 2014 reservation to prioritize regulars.
Born in 1925 in Hamamatsu, Ono apprenticed at 7, moved to Tokyo at 25, and opened his restaurant in 1965, pursuing perfection: "I haven't reached the top yet." Now among Japan's 100,000 centenarians, he credits work as "the best medicine," visiting when possible despite hand issues, serving only special guests. His son Yoshikazu, head chef, notes Ono's humor and kindness—once worrying director David Gelb was bored filming octopus massage.
Aiming for 114 after hearing of Japan's oldest man dying at 113, Ono walks, eats well (no alcohol), and favors maguro, kohada, and anago. Gelb calls his enduring tradition "an inspiration." Under autumn skies, Ono embodies lifelong dedication.
