WHEREAS, The inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list was released, celebrating culinary excellence across Canada, the Caribbean, and the United States, showcasing the region’s diversity, creativity, and innovation in dining; and
WHEREAS, A group of 300 chefs, restauranteurs, journalists, educators and experienced diners anonymously ranked the restaurants to highlight the most outstanding restaurants on the continent; and
WHEREAS, The award ceremony took place on September 25, 2025, at Wynn Las Vegas, where the honorees were distinguished with red scarves and recognized for their remarkable contribution to the culinary arts; and
WHEREAS, Chef Jessie Ito having grown up immersed in the traditions of Japanese cuisine at his parents’ renowned sushi restaurant, Fuji, partnered with his father to open their own establishment in Queen Village, bringing a legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to Philadelphia’s culinary scene; and
WHEREAS, Royal Sushi & Izakaya offers a highly sought after omakase experience to only 16 guests per evening, with a remarkable waiting list of more than 600 patrons. The menu showcases exceptional ingredients such as dry aged tuna, blackthroat sea perch, Hokkaido uni, and firefly squid; and
WHEREAS, Complementing the exquisite cuisine, the restaurant’s bar features an expansive selection of Japanese whiskies and sake, further enhancing the authenticity and depth of the dining experience; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia had three restaurants featured on the list, a testament to the City’s dynamic culinary landscape and rich cultural fabric. This kind of recognition comes at a pivotal moment, as Philadelphia prepares to take center stage for the nation’s Semiquincentennial celebration; and
WHEREAS, Royal Sushi & Izakaya’s recognition reflects not only its individual culinary excellence but also highlights Philadelphia’s vibrant and world-class food scene on both the national and international stage; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes Royal Sushi & Izakaya, a Philadelphia culinary gem specializing in fresh omakase, for being ranked No. 32 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Royal Sushi & Izakaya as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
End