- Byung
(B.K.)
Park
is an award-winning chef specializing in
Japanese cuisine. Before joining Arami as head sushi chef and co-owner,
B.K.
was the head sushi chef at some of Chicago’s favorite restaurants
including
Tsunami, Mirai, Aria and Meiji. B.K. has been a consultant and chef
trainee for
Meiji and Aria as well. B.K. is known for his unique ability to create
personal
experiences for the diners. He brings out the true flavors of the food
and
presents them in a beautifully detailed way that is in tune with
nature.
- Ty Fujimura moved to Chicago in 1997 where he founded Base
by the Pound, an internationally recognized DJ and promotions company.
After working with several local bars with Base by the Pound, Ty opened
a bar of his own (with his brother Troy) in 2002--SmallBar Logan
Square. SmallBar has become known for its specialty menu items and
extensive beer selection (over 150) and has expanded with two more
locations in Wicker Park and Lincoln Park. Ty is also owner of The
Exchange a cocktail parlor in Wicker Park. Arami, Ty’s latest project
is an homage to his grandparents shop in Hawaii and features
traditional family-style (non-Americanized) Japanese dishes and sushi.
- Troy Fujimura is the founder of OOGGOO, a design, lighting, and
programming firm. Troy’s past projects include programming everything
from Broadway Shows like Dreamgirls and Simon & Garfunkel’s Asian
tour, to corporate events for Ford and Nintendo. Troy’s design
background can be seen in Arami’s décor and architecture, where he had
a very hands-on role, building out the space with his partners. Troy’s
career has taken him all across the world giving him a deep
appreciation for unique, one-of-a-kind restaurants and bars. Troy
co-owns SmallBar Logan Square and Arami along with his brother Ty.
Troy’s passion for good food and great service can be seen in Arami’s
approachable dishes and cozy layout, always making sure the guests are
engaged and enjoying themselves.