It was during the 70s that Eitaro Takatsuka first arrived in New Brunswick to work in the eel farming industry. He went on to find love, marrying a local woman with whom he had three daughters, one of whom was Michiko. Having been surrounded by the Japanese culture her whole life, she wanted to offer a unique culinary experience in a region where seafood reigns supreme. This led her to move to Toronto where she gained experience in a reputable Japanese restaurant, becoming better prepared for the return to her native Acadian Peninsula in 2005 when she would set up Mitchan Sushi.
Initially, Michiko’s sushi was on offer at the Cooperative supermarket in Caraquet. This allowed her to give the local community an opportunity to discover her products. Mitchan Sushi then went on to open in a handsome heritage house in the town centre. With the mission to offer fresh local produce at an affordable price as a uniquely Japanese experience, Mitchan Sushi now employs up to 20 members of staff. As well as an extension of the restaurant in 2008, allowing for more seating and more efficient production of takeaway dishes, Mitchan Sushi has also returned to its roots with a brand-new counter at the Coop IGA Extra.
In 2007, Michiko received prizes for Young Entrepreneur of the Year both from the CBDC Péninsule Acadienne and the Gala Commerc'Or in Caraquet. The restaurant offers an experience that is truly unmissable both for the local population and for visitors.