Essentials: Ernesto Uchimura

It should go without mentioning that Hypebeast finds a comfort like no other when indulging in the culinary arts. From our Hypebeast Eats… series to our editorial staff’s Instagram profiles crammed with food shots hash-tagged ”#thatfoodcray,” we understand the important role food plays in not only our eclectic cultures but the creative world as well. With that being said, you may have noticed last month we covered a collaborative event between iconic brand Stussy and the newly opened Plan Check restaurant on 1800 Sawtelle Blvd in Little Osaka, Los Angeles. Representing the first time the streetwear label collaborated on a food item, the maestro behind the exclusive menu was Chef and Co-Founder of the aforementioned eatery, Ernesto Uchimura. The former Corporate Executive Chef at Umani Burger, Ernesto’s latest endeavor includes an enticing menu that blends modern American comfort food with subtle Asian influences. Showcasing his inventive nature, the 30-something chef recently created what he calls “ketchup leather” – “a solidified sheet of ketchup that locks the tomato flavor in place,” preventing the unfortunate soggy bun epidemic. In advancing our Essentials series, the culinary artist lays out a few must-haves to his trade as well as additional personal items that includes a Stussy T-shirt that was released at their joint celebration.

Photography: Brandon Shigeta/Hypebeast