Casa Madai is an Omakase-inspired restaurant infusing Japanese and Mexican cuisine in the most authentic and reverent way possible. This project has been brought to life by Ismael Lucero Lopez, a well-known and respected sushi chef, whose experience began in Chicago in 1999 at Mirai Sushi. Working alongside his mentor Chef Junzan Ichikawa, Ismael perfected the skills of proper Osaka sushi preparation and presentation. Not only was Junzan a mentor, he became the source of inspiration to continue in search for greater things because he believed in Ismael and his potential. Since then, he has worked at multiple prestigious Japanese restaurants such as Japonais, Rebar, Kissaki Omakase in New York City, and Tengoku. From the Midwest to the East Coast, Ismael has shared his passion for sushi and always works hard to be better every day in his skill.
Just like many of us, Ismael and his family emigrated to the United States for a better life. This is never an easy or simple act. After a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice, Ismael’s dream of owning his own restaurant has become a reality. Family is extremely important in Mexican culture, and being so, Ismael’s dream has also become his family’s dream. Whenever needed, his family has always been there to help in any way possible. When you step into Casa Madai, you are stepping into a dream that has become reality. You are stepping into a home. This is the first step from a million-mile-long journey, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
“From humble beginnings, come great things.”
