Watch Hiro's Table

Hiro's Table is a thought-provoking and heartwarming documentary film that revolves around the life of Hiroji Obayashi, a Japanese chef who has made a significant contribution to the culinary world in America. The film speaks not only about Hiro's life but also about the impact Hiro and his food has had on people who have tasted it.

The documentary starts with the introduction of the filmmaker, Lynn Hamrick, who is a close friend of Hiroji Obayashi. She traces Hiro's journey from his childhood in Japan to his present-day, where he is the owner and head chef of the famous TAO restaurant in Los Angeles.

As the story unfolds, we see how Hiro's passion for cooking was instilled in him at a young age by his mother, who would cook up delicious meals for the family. Hiro's connection with food goes beyond just cooking; it is almost spiritual for him. He believes that food has the power to heal people, both physically and emotionally.

Through candid interviews with Hiro's family, friends, and colleagues, we get to know the man behind the food. One of the most touching parts of the film is the portrayal of Hiro's relationship with his wife, Candice Obayashi. Candice has been a pillar of strength for Hiro throughout his life, and she talks about how Hiro's passion for cooking sometimes overshadowed his family life. However, she also speaks about how cooking has always been the center of their family gatherings and how it has brought them closer over the years.

The documentary sheds light on the struggles Hiro faced when he first arrived in America in the 1960s. He faced racism, discrimination, and a lack of acceptance for his culture and food. However, Hiro never gave up, and he continued to cook and create dishes that blended the best of Japanese and American cuisine.

One of the highlights of the film is the focus on the food itself. We see stunning visuals of Hiro's dishes being prepared and served, and we can almost taste the flavors through the screen. The documentary also features interviews with food critics, who speak about the impact Hiro's food had on the culinary scene in America.

The film also depicts Hiro's bond with his customers, who have become his extended family over the years. Hiro often speaks about how he wants to give back to the community, and he does this by organizing events to raise awareness and funds for charities close to his heart. We see how Hiro's cooking has brought people together, regardless of their background or culture.

Hiro's Table is not just about food, but it's also about legacy and memory. The film talks about how Hiro is passing on his culinary knowledge to the next generation, and how he hopes to keep his legacy alive even after he's gone. Hiro's children and grandchildren also make an appearance in the film, speaking about their memories of Hiro and his cooking.

In conclusion, Hiro's Table is a touching and intimate portrayal of a man who has dedicated his life to cooking and has impacted the lives of many through his food. The film is a celebration of food, family, and culture and is a must-watch for anyone who loves good food and heartwarming stories.

Hiro's Table is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.