National Sushi Day spotlights family tradition and fresh flavors at Mak's Asian Kitchen & Sushi

FORT MYERS, FL (WINK) - Sushi lovers have the perfect excuse to grab their favorite roll on June 18 as National Sushi Day celebrates one of the world's most popular dishes.

At Mak's Asian Kitchen & Sushi in Fort Myers, the holiday is about more than just sushi. It's a chance to showcase the family tradition, dedication and craftsmanship that have helped make the restaurant a local favorite for the past seven years.

"Good sushi starts with fresh, simple ingredients," said co-owner Billy Mak. "That means high-quality fish and good rice. You don't need to overcomplicate it."

The family-owned restaurant has built a loyal following in Southwest Florida with a menu featuring everything from classic rolls to specialty creations like the popular Crunchy Tiger Roll. Guests can also enjoy fresh nigiri, sashimi and a variety of cooked dishes.

"A big misconception is that all sushi is raw," Billy Mak said. "We have plenty of options that are cooked. We also have plenty of items from our kitchen like Mongolian beef, fried rice and so much more."

Behind the sushi bar is years of experience. Co-owner Kevin Mak has spent decades mastering the craft and even trained his younger brother Billy.

"It's almost like basketball," Kevin Mak said. "You might make it on the first two tries and then none after that. It's constantly practicing. You also really need to love what you do."

That passion for the craft is reflected in the restaurant's diverse team of sushi chefs. While sushi chefs have historically been Japanese men who traveled the world perfecting their skills, Kevin Mak says Mak's embraces talent from many different backgrounds.

"We have sushi chefs from all around the world," Kevin Mak said. "We also have a female sushi chef from South Korea."

The restaurant prides itself on serving high-quality fish sourced from Japan while creating an environment where both experienced sushi lovers and first-time diners feel comfortable exploring the menu.

National Sushi Day gives customers the opportunity to try a new roll, enjoy a longtime favorite or learn more about the artistry behind one of the world's most beloved cuisines. For the Mak family, it's also a chance to celebrate the community that has supported their restaurant since it opened seven years ago.

Whether you're a longtime sushi enthusiast or trying your first roll, National Sushi Day serves as a reminder of how a traditional Japanese dish has become a favorite around the world and right here in Southwest Florida.