Have you tried a California roll? Andy, the "godfather of Taiwanese California rolls," opens Izumi Restaurant

▲The main ingredients of a California roll include California avocado, cucumber, and crab meat, but Izumi’s head chef Andy adds his own creative twist. (Photo by reporter Hsu Wen-bin)

Reported by Huang Shih-yuan, Taipei

What is a California roll? It was originally created by Japanese sushi chefs in Los Angeles for Americans who didn’t eat raw fish. Avocado, which is abundant in California, was used instead of raw fish, along with cucumber and crab meat, forming the roll. It became widely popular in North America and was thus named the California roll. Andy, known as the “godfather of Taiwanese California rolls,” has just opened his new Izumi Asian fusion restaurant, which officially launched on May 8.

Head chef Andy explained that the California roll was originally invented by Japanese chefs in Los Angeles, mainly targeting Americans who didn’t eat raw fish. Avocado from California replaced the raw fish, and it was later named the California roll. Andy said that the essential components of a California roll are avocado, cucumber, crab meat roll, and vinegared rice.

▲The original California roll was created by Japanese chefs in Los Angeles, mainly for Americans who didn’t eat raw fish. (Photo by reporter Hsu Wen-bin)

However, Andy has now upgraded the California roll by adding his own creativity, designing over 40 different flavor variations. For example, there's the Volcano Roll, which uses the California roll as a base and is topped with five types of cheese and sauces. Although it also contains scallop sashimi, those who have tried it say it’s delicious. The Sumi Roll features smoked salmon, eel, onion, and six kinds of cheese that are grilled. In addition to various California rolls, the Izumi Asian fusion restaurant also serves pizza, fried foods, and skewers.

The Izumi Asian fusion restaurant, which opened on May 8, differs from traditional Japanese restaurants. It features a stylish American-style bar counter and lounge sofas that make you feel like you’re in a lunch bar, blending delicious food with a trendy atmosphere. The goal is for guests to enjoy their meals comfortably and relaxed. Aside from the tasty food, the Izumi bar also offers cocktail services, and if you prefer sake or beer, those options are available too.

To celebrate the opening and contribute to society, Izumi will donate 10% of its revenue within the first month after opening to Nepal to assist with disaster relief. Additionally, customers who spend over NT$2,000 will receive either two Pacific oysters or two creative cakes.

▲Izumi will donate 10% of its revenue within the first month after opening to Nepal for disaster relief.

Izumi Asian Fusion Restaurant
Address: 1F, No. 101, Songren Rd., Xinyi District, Taipei City (rear entrance of Group Amity Financial Building)
Phone: 02-87805265