Overview: Hirofumi Leung (or “Hiro) started Dragonfly Sushi in Gainesville, FL in 1999. He had no prior experience in the restaurant industry and used a business plan he created with his brother to get financing for the restaurant. The name "Dragonfly" was inspired by an abundance of them around Lake Alice at the time they were creating their vision board. After opening numerous other businesses and learning from mistakes, Hiro opened up Dragonfly Orlando 10 years later after going door-to-door to hotels to spread awareness about the restaurant.
In this blog, he shares his story of how he opened the restaurant after being inspired by Kaizen principles. He also talked about expanding to Miami, where they are now in year six. Hiro’s favorite dishes come from their staff members who take initiative to break out of their comfort zone and create something unique. Lastly, Hiro expressed his desire to contribute back to the community by finding ways to work with others in order to make Gainesville a better place for all its residents.
Introduction
You've probably heard of Dragonfly Sushi, but do you know where it started? And what's with the name? Well, they're questions I've been asked over and over again. So I'll tell you a little story about this Gainesville original.
Hirofumi Leung
Hirofumi Leung is the owner of Dragonfly Sushi, which has been serving Gainesville's finest sushi since 2006. His mother is Japanese and he has been in the business for over 15 years. Currently living in Gainesville, FL with his wife and two children, Hirofumi opened his first restaurant Dragonfly in 1999. That location has expanded into two more locations throughout Florida.
Hiro's Journey as an Entrepreneur
Hiro first came to Gainesville to visit his brother, who studied at the University of Florida. Hiro was looking for his next venture. One night, he crashed on his brother's couch, and grabbed one of his brother's Nike shoe collections. He couldn't go to sleep, so he decided to make a miniature model of a restaurant inside (this became the model for Dragonfly Sushi). It was such an exciting idea that he decided not only would this be his next project but also where he would live when it opened its doors!
Gainesville's Original Dragonfly Sushi
Dragonfly Sushi has gained a reputation for serving some of the best sushi in Gainesville, FL. They also serve up an array of other specialty rolls, nigiri and sashimi pieces, and appetizers like edamame or gyoza dumplings.
Dragonfly serves the best sushi in town.
If you're looking for the best sushi in town, look no further than Dragonfly.
The restaurant continues to be one of the most popular restaurants in town. They have an extensive menu that includes everything from classic rolls to unique creations. With so many different types of sushi on offer, there's sure to be something for everyone at this local favorite!
Rolling it up
The history of sushi in Gainesville is a long one, but Dragonfly Sushi has been at the forefront of this culinary tradition since its inception. Their expertise sets them apart from other restaurants that offer similar menus. If you have not tried Dragonfly yet, then go now!
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