Chef Engin Onural is the chef and owner of Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey. While you didn’t see him at the Paris Olympics this year, he is a two-time World Sushi Olympics attendee. In 2017, he placed 27th at the event. Additionally, he is among a small group of sushi ambassadors designated by the Japanese government and was named Best Chef America in 2016.
How did you get your start in the culinary world and what drew you to sushi?
I decided what I wanted to do when I was 10 years old – my mom even found an old video proving it a couple of years ago and we watched it and laughed. I always felt close to Japanese cuisine in general – but sushi specifically. Now, I’ve been doing this professionally for over 20 years and I still love it.
What was your experience being in the World Sushi Olympics?
The first time I went was in 2017, and the last time I went was this January – which was a makeup event since there wasn’t an event during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s very important to me because the best of each country is represented.
Of course, it’s a competition and everyone wants to win, but just by attending you’re among the top sushi chefs in the world. It’s the only place that I feel nervous. The most important part is that I’m around people who love sushi the way I do and it’s always fun to meet people who share the same level of passion as you. And now, I have friends from all over the world.
What does it mean to you to have your sushi certification from the Japanese government?
It’s very important because it’s the place for sushi. It shows people that even though I’m not Japanese or Asian, I know what I’m doing. Even now that I have proven myself with my work, it’s important to me – for my heart – that I’m still attached to them on that level.
What made you decide to open your second Sandfish location in Phoenix?
I thought about it for almost a year. One of the reasons is the Phoenicians – they’re awesome and very down to Earth. I felt more welcome in Phoenix than the other city I was considering, and I liked the location in Melrose. I’ve already become friends with people in the area and have found it to be such a nice neighborhood.
What are the must-try items on the menu?
The spicy tuna tostada starter is a must. Our sandfish roll is very unique. Our Spanish octopus is a really good, cooked option. The sushi is always amazing – but those are three items that are unique to us. We also have a great selection of whiskey and cocktails that really complement the food. People should also try the items on our sunset menu – it’s quite extensive and allows people to have some great options even if they’re paying attention to what they’re spending.
