Michael earned his first Michelin star in 2022, a year after launching Soseki Modern Omakase in Orlando, FL. Soseki, a 10 seat multi-course tasting menu, utilizes the best fish from around the world while exploring the amazing bounty Central Florida has to offer. Michael is also the chef owner of Orlando’s 2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand’s Sushi Saint a temaki and sushi omakase lounge. As well as Perla’s Pizza a cocktail pizza bar, Sushi Saint NYC, and Bar Kada sake bar.

With over 20+ years in the hospitality industry, Michael searched to work for some of the best chefs from Wolfgang Puck, Joel Robuchon, Eric Ripert, Masa Takayama and Jennifer Carroll. Spending time working in leadership roles for amazing brands like Levy Restaurants, MGM Grand, Ritz Carlton, Aria Casino and Culinary Director for a multi unit/ concept brand. 

In 2024 Michael had the opportunity to train in Japan with the Gohan Society for a culinary exchange program.  This allowed for a much deeper understanding of culture and cuisine, spending time in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, & Kanazawa working with Chef Shin Takagi of Zeniya.  Training in areas of fugu, miso koji, sake production as well as training in a traditional Kaiseki restaurant.