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<figure id="figure-k9xhcg0csalp89xkhh"><p><span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: 32px; font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight);" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: 32px; font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight);">Building Lasting Connections: My Journey as a Sushi Chef in Maputo</span><br></p></figure><h3>Introduction:<br></h3><p>As a private sushi chef in Maputo, I have had the pleasure of not only creating delicious and intricate dishes but also forming meaningful relationships with my clients. Every interaction with a client is an opportunity to connect, and create unforgettable culinary experiences. In this blog post, I would like to take you on a journey of my travels to clients and the bonds I have formed along the way.</p><h3>Exploring Maputo's Culinary Scene:</h3><p>When I first arrived in Maputo, the vibrant capital city of Mozambique, from my hometown of Tofo-Inhambane, I was greeted by familiar dishes from my roots as i ventured into small eateries at Bazar Marketplaces. These ventures, initially driven by my desire to find something to eat due to my laziness to cook, transformed into journeys of exploration.</p><p> As I exchanged pleasantries and conversed with servers during these culinary expeditions, I discovered how Maputo gracefully embraces a diverse range of cultures and flavors. The city serving as a captivating melting pot, where the influence of the Vatonga tribe from Inhambane (my mom’s side) and the Vatswa tribe from Inhambane (my dad’s side) is prominently felt. &nbsp;But that’s not all! There are so many other tribal groups from across Mozambique that contribute to the rich tapestry of Maputo’s cultural heritage.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-jjvsl2kthklp8czz33"><img id="jjvsl2kthklp8czz33" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0M5v1HkYh1FRZgiqvsrfoocOP72r5eCiSAhvC4ryilZWrmEDxI53uhAuLjwyjmXr.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p><br></p><h3>Taking Sushi to My Clients:&nbsp;</h3><p>Before I arrived in Maputo, I was just a sushi chef with a dream. But now, I’m a sushi chef with a dream and a passport! This is why i decided to take my passion for sushi and my extensive experience as a hospitality professional in the Barra beach area and the Tofo beach area and create something truly special. I wanted to create a sushi catering service that would make people’s taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. And that’s exactly what I did! I’m now a sushi superhero, swooping in to save the day with my trusty chopsticks and a smile. Every journey being an adventure, and taking me to different neighborhoods and allowing me to discover the diverse communities that make up Maputo province.&nbsp;</p><h3>The Car Ride to my clients Home</h3><p>Let me tell you aboutThambissa, my great, great, great grandparent. He was a general of the last dynastic emperor of the Empire of Gaza, Emperor Ngungunhana, but he decided to ditch his King and settle in Thambissa - Inhambane, which is located approximately 15 kilometers off the main road from Ka Nhazete, between Guiuwa and Jangamo. And guess what? He named the area after himself!</p><p>I bring up Thambissa because his spirit of adventure and innovation may be runing in my blood! When in the kitchen I’m like a sushi warrior, slicing and dicing my way through the culinary world as i stealthily blend flavors and techniques to create new and exciting dishes, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.</p><p>But it’s not just about the sushi. It’s about the journey. That’s why I listen to traditional Timbila tunes during our car rides to the homes of clients. It’s like we’re on a musical safari, exploring the wilds of Maputo province. And let me tell you, when the team and i start singing along to the rhythm of Timbila, it’s like we’re all part of one big, happy family. We laugh, we sing, we break chopsticks. It’s like a party on wheels!</p><p>I imagine that this is how Thambissa would have found relief from pre-war jitters and connected with his war comrades. And now, I’m carrying on that tradition. So if you’re looking for a sushi experience that’s out of this world, come join the party!&nbsp;</p><h3 id="figure-z2np4zx1mhlp8d4moh"><img id="z2np4zx1mhlp8d4moh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8oGPdmFQ8rXSoIC2u23LAphLya36NYOFng5trick3s5COjWDrkMqUDi9Y5Qp6jGg.jpg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8oGPdmFQ8rXSoIC2u23LAphLya36NYOFng5trick3s5COjWDrkMqUDi9Y5Qp6jGg.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></h3><h3>Building Trust and Connections:</h3><p>One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the relationships I have built with my clients. Over time, we have developed a level of trust and understanding that goes beyond the culinary realm. Being entrusted with 80% of the total catering fee is a rare occurrence in the catering industry. Typically, caterers are only entrusted with 50% of the total amount. However, my clients have been so impressed with my work that they have recommended me to others, which has allowed these others to place their complete trust in me. </p><p>They feel no discomfort or hesitation in depositing this amount, even though they are entrusting it to a stranger. This is a testament to the quality of my work and the trust that I have built with my clients. As I prepare the sushi, I also often engage in conversations with my clients, learning about their lives, stories, and experiences. These connections have given me a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of Maputo's people. I have had the privilege of hearing personal stories, witnessing important milestones, and even being invited to join in celebrations.</p><figure id="figure-o7l97crylflp8d6bpc"><img id="o7l97crylflp8d6bpc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1cXeCBTJEq7eV6LbeAOXk3alhMQF0qEmj01XdX2O87Aqrz8wC8h4WtrYDtdZNvQC.jpg" alt="birds on body of water during daytime" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1cXeCBTJEq7eV6LbeAOXk3alhMQF0qEmj01XdX2O87Aqrz8wC8h4WtrYDtdZNvQC.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><p><br></p><h3><br>Creating Unforgettable Culinary Experiences:&nbsp; &nbsp;</h3><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">My dishes have been said to be a masterpiece, something of an art Museum. A symphony of flavors and a culinary rainbow, with every color symbolizing the rich diversity of Mozambique’s tribes. And i have had my clinets say that i&nbsp; create sushi dishes that are so unforgettable, they are like a party in the mouth.&nbsp;</span></p><h3>Grateful for the Journey:</h3><p>As I reminisce about my journey as a sushi chef in Maputo, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the experiences and connections I have forged. My culinary voyage has taken me to meet and connect with fisherman, to the homes of hospitable individuals in Goba, Sommerschield, Polana, Ponta do Ouro, Maracuene, Makaneta, Ponta Malongane, Mozal, Shihango, Triunfo, and the entire Costa do Sol area. I’ve even had the pleasure of interacting with the Senhoras do mercado (meaning ladies of the Bazar marquet) at the vibrant Bazar marketplaces such as Fajardo, Malanga, Zimpeto, and Mercado Central. These remarkable women not only provide me with fresh vegetables for my sushi but also inspire me with their zest for life.</p><p>I’m looking forward to embarking on many more journeys, exploring new flavors, and building even deeper connections with the incredible people of Maputo. Who knows, maybe I’ll even find a way to incorporate coconuts into my sushi recipes as a way to pay homege to my home land Inhambane.&nbsp;</p><p>If you are in search of a private sushi chef who not only creates exquisite dishes but also brings a personal touch to your event, I would be honored to be a part of your culinary experience.<br>Together, let's create unforgettable memories through the art of sushi.</p><p>Arigato gozaimasu, Chef Stelio<br></p><p><br></p><h3>Bookings</h3><p><strong>Would you like me to cater for you?</strong> Check my <a title="Services" href="https://chefstelio.com/services" data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/services">Services, Call on +258 8454 90017</a> or go straight to my <a title="Bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings">Bookings</a> form and let's plan your next event!</p><p><br></p><h3>Stay Updated</h3><p>Updates of my sushi catering events in Maputo can be found on Instagram: <a title="@chefstelio" href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/">@chefstelio</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Blogpost: Building lasting connections as a Sushi Chef in Maputo

<p><strong>If you're planning a party or an event, one of the most important things to consider is the food. When you're looking for something unique and delicious, sushi is an excellent choice. However, making sushi requires a lot of skill and experience, so it's not something that just anyone can do. That's why it's a good idea to hire a sushi chef for your event.</strong></p><p><br></p><h2>What is a Sushi Chef?</h2><p>A sushi chef, also known as an<em> 'itamae</em>,' is a highly skilled professional who specializes in making sushi. We are trained in the art of sushi-making, and we have years of experience in preparing and presenting sushi dishes. A good sushi chef has a deep understanding of the ingredients, the techniques, and the traditions of sushi-making.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-faww7kqhioliuscw5o"><img id="faww7kqhioliuscw5o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36GijbNjVFsMSrU0WEkqk9AKu4RBcVKLnbcm9WDIs4w7XD4qvnLMuICQsPbus8yj.png" alt="sushi rolls" title="sushi rolls" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3><br></h3><h2>Why Hire a Sushi Chef?</h2><p><br></p><h3>Expertise</h3><p>One of the main reasons to hire a sushi chef is their expertise. Sushi-making is a complex and delicate process that requires a lot of skill and experience. </p><p>A professional sushi chef knows how to select the best ingredients, how to prepare them, and how to present them in an attractive and appetizing way. </p><p><a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/" href="https://chefstelio.com/" title="Chef Stelio">As Chef,&nbsp; i</a> know as one of the best how to add Mozambican flavours to well-known sushi dishes to make it an even more exciting experience.</p><p><br></p><h3>Quality</h3><p>If you want to serve high-quality sushi at your event, hiring a sushi chef is the way to go. A professional chef will use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients and they will prepare the sushi with precision and care. This will ensure that your guests enjoy the best possible sushi experience.&nbsp;</p><p><a title="Chef Stelio" href="https://chefstelio.com/" data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/">Chef Stelio</a> guarantees the best ingredients will be used and he makes high-quality sushi at your location, which allows you to see a master creating his art right there in the comfort of your home.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h3>Customization</h3><p>Another advantage of hiring a sushi chef is the ability to customize the sushi to your liking. A good sushi chef will work with you to create a menu that suits your preferences and dietary restrictions. They can also create unique and creative sushi dishes that will impress your guests.</p><p>I will take all your dietary requirements into account and I can create a tailor-made menu that suits the goal of your (private) dinner or (corporate) event.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h3>Presentation</h3><p>Sushi is not just about the taste, it's also about the presentation, just like my dishes. These are simply a piece of art. A professional sushi chef knows how to create beautiful and visually appealing sushi dishes that will impress your guests. They will use different colours, textures, and shapes to create a stunning sushi display.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-99zzjd0nbliuscz4z"><img id="99zzjd0nbliuscz4z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eA3QwdwaMinaOrZGSzfMi2A4M3Qa1OFV3xo8eOI6YTJiguUp1ymn0aHbzvWQKRk.png" alt="sushi nigiri" title="sushi nigiri" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eA3QwdwaMinaOrZGSzfMi2A4M3Qa1OFV3xo8eOI6YTJiguUp1ymn0aHbzvWQKRk.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3><br></h3><h2>How to Hire a Sushi Chef</h2><p>If you're interested in hiring a sushi chef for your event, there are a few things you should consider. First, make sure to find a sushi chef who has experience and expertise in sushi-making. You can ask for recommendations from friends or search online for sushi catering companies. </p><p>As Chef Stelio, i have&nbsp; been able to build my sushi catering business through word of mouth this way. People find me, because those who have hired me are very happy with my expertise and quality of my sushi as well as the way i presents it. Like one client mentioned:<em> "I had the pleasure of experiencing Chef Stelio's private sushi chef service. From the moment&nbsp; he arrived, I was greeted with warm hospitality and professionalism."</em></p><p>Second, make sure to discuss your budget and your expectations with the sushi chef. They should be able to provide you with a customized menu that fits your needs and your budget. You should also ask about their availability and their setup requirements. </p><p>Ask Chef Stelio what he can do for you and contact him via his <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" title="bookings">bookings</a> form. He'll be happy to give you a quote that fits your budget.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><blockquote><p>"... I had the pleasure of experiencing Chef Stelio's private sushi chef service. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warm hospitality and professionalism!"</p></blockquote><p><br></p><p>Hiring a sushi chef is a great way to add a unique and delicious touch to your event. With their expertise, quality ingredients, and creative presentation, a sushi chef can create a sushi experience that your guests will never forget.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-3rbzb20gr6liusd1iv"><img id="3rbzb20gr6liusd1iv" src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/blocks/19GwTrkaunVClTxLjKs4FXB2ufEqbtfVz7QJ4TE1OlbSul883ArlqsOsa8KDDkOM.png" alt="piri piri sushi" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/blocks/19GwTrkaunVClTxLjKs4FXB2ufEqbtfVz7QJ4TE1OlbSul883ArlqsOsa8KDDkOM.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3><br></h3><h3>Sushi from Chef Stelio; a blend of Japanese Sushi Art and Mozambican Ingredients.</h3><p>I, <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" title="Chef Stelio">Chef Stelio</a>, am honoured to be the pioneer of an in-home sushi catering service in Maputo, Mozambique.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h3>Bookings</h3><p><strong>Would you like me to cater for you?</strong> Check my <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/services" href="https://chefstelio.com/services" title="Services">Services</a> or go straight to my <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" title="Bookings">Bookings</a> form and let's plan your next event!</p><p><br></p><h3>Stay Updated</h3><p>Updates of my sushi catering events in Maputo can be found on Instagram: <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/" href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/" title="@chefstelio" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@chefstelio</a></p>

Why hire a sushi chef?

<p><strong>Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish that has been around for centuries. It is made with vinegared rice, raw fish, and vegetables and is often served with soy sauce, wasabi and pickled ginger. Over time, sushi has evolved and spread around the world, becoming a popular cuisine in many countries. In this blog I. <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/about" href="https://chefstelio.com/about" title="About Stelio">Stelio</a> will tell you more about the history of sushi.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><br></p><h2>Origins of sushi</h2><p>The origins of sushi hark back to Southeast Asia’s traditional fish preservation method, akin to Inhambane’s rural practices where fish is layered with salt for conservation. This ancient technique involved packing fish with salted, cooled cooked rice, allowing it to be stored for long periods. As the rice fermented over time, the fish remained preserved.</p><p>This method journeyed to Japan, evolving into today’s sushi. Initially, only the fish was eaten and the rice discarded. By the 17th century, the Japanese began enjoying the fermented rice with raw fish, giving rise to the sushi that is now a global phenomenon.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-faww7kqhioliuscw5o"><img id="faww7kqhioliuscw5o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28jNWXn4hvLbeJhMsasegBsMP9ENrz2fsKFEGNSW978KkOtk2urMhMQ9Zcavw5G0.png" alt="sushi rolls" title="sushi rolls" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28jNWXn4hvLbeJhMsasegBsMP9ENrz2fsKFEGNSW978KkOtk2urMhMQ9Zcavw5G0.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3><br></h3><h2>Styles of sushi</h2><p>As sushi became more popular in Japan, different styles of sushi began to emerge. One popular style is nigiri sushi, which is made with a small ball of rice topped with a slice of raw fish. Another style is maki sushi, which is made by rolling rice and fish in seaweed.</p><p>As sushi spread around the world, it began to evolve even further. In Mozambique for example, I have created unique, very delicious sushi rolls such as the '<em>Mathapah'</em> roll, which is made out of cassava leaves and Dzithogomah. This is a rare and highly delicious shellfish (crustacean) that can only be found in Inhambane.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-99zzjd0nbliuscz4z"><img id="99zzjd0nbliuscz4z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/15xwjeutdNdkH2fnxqczoXwwlF205Z7TFtnwHdtNvEiDAK1WoTPszuBeOn4meX5R.png" alt="sushi nigiri" title="sushi nigiri" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3><br></h3><h2>Sushi catering Maputo</h2><p>I have been running my own private sushi catering business since 2018 in Maputo, Mozambique where I became a renowned chef. My passion for sushi began in Tofo where I worked and began my apprenticeship. </p><p>After my time at Hotel Tofo-Mar in Tofo, I have worked at various sushi restaurants for many years prior to creating my own business. While I was still in Tofo, I often received requests from satisfied clients. </p><p>The same thing continued to happen when I moved to Maputo and I would prepare sushi for them in their homes on my days off.&nbsp; This is what made me to decide to establish my business '<a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/" href="https://chefstelio.com/" title="Chef Stelio">Chef Stelio</a>' in Maputo,</p><p><br></p><blockquote><p>"... This gives my sushi a unique flavour that can’t be found anywhere else!"</p><p><br></p></blockquote><h2>Mozambican sushi</h2><p>I love creating innovative sushi rolls that blend the traditional Japanese art with a bit of the local ingredients, which is a bit of the flavours of Mozambique.</p><p><br></p><p> </p><h3>Matapha roll</h3><p>One such innovation being the '<em>Matapha</em>' roll, which contains <em>Dzithogomah</em> as an ingredient. Dzithogomah is a rare and highly delicious shellfish (crustacean) that can only be found in Inhambane.</p><p><br></p><h3>Prawn roll</h3><p>Another one of my most popular rolls is the Prawn roll, which is made with Kewpie Mayo and spicy Mozambican piri-piri sauce. </p><p>I also use local seafood like tuna, lobster and crab when the fishermen have those available for me. This gives my sushi a unique flavour that can’t be found anywhere else.</p><p>You can be certain that my sushi is delicious and original and it's a blend of the Japanese sushi art with a Mozambican twist.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Future of sushi</h3><p>Sushi has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a way to preserve fish. Today, it is a popular cuisine enjoyed in Tofo, Vilanculos, Beira, Nampula and many more areas along the Mozambican coastline. </p><p>When chefs like myself continue to put our own spin on the dish, we can expect to see even more unique and delicious sushi creations in the future.</p><p>Whether you prefer traditional nigiri sushi or more modern sushi rolls, there is no denying that sushi is a delicious and fascinating cuisine with a rich history and a bright future.</p><p><br></p><figure id="figure-1z45exdwwhljihsy1o" class=""><img id="1z45exdwwhljihsy1o" src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/blocks/2ciALQcvSfRCMTAzqDov5K1O9VxfHxrrPuXLRQItGf9frs6Lz7aqKA5O50yTdaLf.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/blocks/2ciALQcvSfRCMTAzqDov5K1O9VxfHxrrPuXLRQItGf9frs6Lz7aqKA5O50yTdaLf.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><p><br></p><h3>Sushi from Chef Stelio; a blend of Japanese Sushi Art and Mozambican Ingredients.</h3><p>I, <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" title="Chef Stelio">Chef Stelio</a>, am honoured to be the pioneer of an in-home sushi catering service in Maputo, Mozambique.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h3>Bookings</h3><p><strong>Would you like me to cater for you?</strong> Check my <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/services" href="https://chefstelio.com/services" title="Services">Services</a> or go straight to my <a data-mce-href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" href="https://chefstelio.com/bookings" title="Bookings">Bookings</a> form and let's plan your next event!</p><p><br></p><h3>Stay Updated</h3><p>Updates of my sushi catering events in Maputo can be found on Instagram: <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/" href="https://www.instagram.com/chefstelio/" title="@chefstelio" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@chefstelio</a></p>

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Blogpost: Building lasting connections as a Sushi Chef in...

Why hire a sushi chef?

Where does sushi come from?