VOL 27 ISSUE 39, Oct. 5, 2026
Morimoto Asia recently hosted the inaugural Sushi Showdown at Disney Springs, welcoming five of Orlando’s top sushi chefs for a culinary competition that celebrated creativity, craftsmanship and community. But the best part: The event raised funds for Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre resort in nearby Kissimmee that provides critically ill children and their families with week-long wish vacations at no cost.
The Sushi Showdown raised more than $11,000 for the nonprofit while featuring standout dishes from several acclaimed local restaurants, with Sushi Pop earning the inaugural People’s Choice Award and Okonomi taking home the Judges’ Award.
Guests sampled inventive sushi creations while interacting directly with chefs throughout the evening, creating an engaging experience that showcased the diversity and innovation of Orlando’s sushi scene.
The event was organized by Yuhi Fujinaga, Patina Group’s director of culinary and former executive chef of Morimoto Asia. Fujinaga helped bring together chefs, restaurateurs and guests for an evening dedicated to celebrating the artistry of sushi and supporting a meaningful cause.
“It’s always great to see all the chefs come together to support such an amazing cause in Give Kids The World,” Fujinaga said during the event, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined the evening.
