Pyae Sone
Paing Soe

Est. 2023

Originally from Burma (Myanmar), Pyae Sone Paing Soe began his journey with Hissho Sushi in 2023 after moving to San Diego, CA.

He says, “Since then, I’ve been working hard, learning new skills, and building my life here. I’m passionate about self-growth and creating opportunities for myself. Right now, I’m in the process of planning my own business and taking the next steps toward my future goals.”

Can you share your background prior to coming to Hissho?

Before joining Hissho, I began my journey in the food industry working as a dishwasher at several Indian restaurants. Unfortunately, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S., the restaurant I was working at had to close down. This pushed me to find a new job, and I started working at a grocery store, carrying large rice bags.

Later, with the help of a friend, I got the opportunity to work at a Hissho sushi bar as a helper. Around the same time, I also bought a car and began doing food delivery as a side income.

After four years of gaining hands-on experience as a sushi helper and chef, I proudly stepped into the role of a sushi franchise owner.

Can you share any experiences where your cultural perspective positively impacted your interactions with customers or employees?

My heritage has greatly influenced my work ethic and the way I manage my business. Growing up, I was taught the values of discipline, respect, and dedication — all of which have helped me build strong relationships with customers and employees. I believe in providing excellent service and maintaining high-quality standards, which reflect the traditions I grew up with.

Although I currently do not celebrate or display my culture directly within my franchise location, the principles and values from my background are deeply woven into the way I run my business every day.

What motivated you to become a Hissho Sushi franchisee and a sushi chef?

When I first started working at a sushi bar, I had no experience in making sushi, but I found myself really enjoying the work and the culture around it. Over time, I developed a strong passion for sushi and for the food industry. I wanted to grow beyond being just an employee and challenge myself to build something of my own.

Becoming a Hissho Sushi franchisee was the perfect opportunity for me to take control of my career, create a better future, and keep doing the work I love every day.

In what ways has your heritage influenced your role as a business owner? Are there ways you celebrate your culture within your franchise location?

A great majority of the franchisees and those who are a part of the Hissho Sushi Family are of Burmese-background. This similarity of cultural and heritage background has helped build a community of friends, and families within the Hissho community where we are all comfortable reaching out to one another and sharing our great experiences within Hissho Sushi as well as creating more job opportunities for our Burmese community here in the United States.

How has being a business owner impacted your life?

Becoming a business owner has completely changed my life. It has given me a sense of independence and responsibility that I never had before. I’ve learned how to manage not only food preparation but also customer service, sales, and running a team. Although there are challenges, the experience has made me stronger, more confident, and more focused on my long-term goals. It has also given me financial stability and the ability to plan for a better future for myself and my family.

What are some of your passions outside of your Hissho business? How has your role as a Hissho Sushi chef enabled you to pursue and advance your passions?

Outside of my Hissho business, I have a strong passion for cars, as well as buying and selling items such as phones and watches. These interests allow me to stay engaged, continuously learn, and build valuable connections.

Being a Hissho Sushi franchisee has provided me with greater financial stability and flexibility, enabling me to invest more time and resources into these passions. It has also helped me develop important business skills, such as negotiation and customer service, which complement both my personal and professional growth.

More Franchisee Stories

What is your favorite sushi roll?

That’s an easy one — spicy tuna roll! It’s simple, it’s fresh, and it’s got just the right amount of kick. It’s actually the roll that made me fall in love with sushi in the first place, so it’s still my go-to today.

Find my locations!

Sprouts
Farmers Market

3243 Camino de los Coches
Carlsbad, CA 92009-8966

🍣 FRESHEN UP YOUR FEED FOLLOW ALONG @HISSHOSUSHI 🍣 FRESHEN UP YOUR FEED FOLLOW ALONG @HISSHOSUSHI
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