Chef Morimoto on Sushi, Innovation & Techs Role at Mori Mori!

When Chef Masaharu Morimoto set out to launch Mori Mori—his first-ever hand roll bar and quick-service concept—he knew efficiency was key. To deliver high-quality sushi at speed while preserving its artistry, he turned to AUTEC, the leader in commercial sushi robots.

At Mori Mori, the Iron Chef and Iron Chef America star relies on the AUTEC ASM895A Maki Maker, a cutting-edge machine that produces up to 1,300 rice sheets per hour—one every three seconds—without manual input. Its double rice sheet mode boosts efficiency, while its compact design seamlessly integrates into Mori Mori’s sushi counter, optimizing kitchen workflow.

In an exclusive Q&A, Chef Morimoto shares how AUTEC’s technology is transforming the sushi industry: 

• What AUTEC robots are you using in your new QSR concept? What features make them well suited for your restaurant?
• Chef Morimoto: “At Mori Mori, we use the ASM895 to enhance efficiency, consistency, and quality in sushi preparation. By automating tasks like rice rolling, it reduces prep time and ensures that every hand roll is uniform in size and shape. Plus, its compact design is a perfect fit for our pop-up space.”

• What inspired you to integrate AUTEC’s technology into your sushi-making process?
• Chef Morimoto: “Precision and consistency are essential in sushi preparation. AUTEC’s technology delivers both without compromising quality, allowing us to maintain the traditional artistry of sushi while streamlining production.”

• How do you balance technology with maintaining authenticity in sushi-making?
• Chef Morimoto: “Automation helps with precision and efficiency, but the artistry is still in our hands. The robots handle repetitive tasks, while we focus on the details that make each roll unique. This balance lets us honor tradition while embracing innovation.”

• How has incorporating AUTEC technology changed the way you manage efficiency, creativity, and overall workflow?
• Chef Morimoto: “With AUTEC handling the basics, my team has more time to focus on creativity, flavor refinement, and presentation. This workflow seamlessly blends tradition and technology, making the sushi-making process more efficient without sacrificing quality.”

• How has AUTEC’s automation impacted your foodservice operations so far, and what potential impacts do you foresee in the future?”
• Chef Morimoto: “AUTEC’s automation has significantly increased our speed and efficiency, allowing us to serve more guests without compromising on quality. In the future, I see even greater innovation in how automation can support both creativity and efficiency in restaurant kitchens.”

• What role do you think technology will play in shaping the future of restaurant kitchens?
• Chef Morimoto: “Technology will continue to streamline operations, improve consistency, and allow chefs to focus on creativity and guest experience. As automation evolves, it will empower chefs to push culinary boundaries while maintaining the artistry behind every dish.”