Omotenashi Growth Lab
Boost Your Japanese Restaurant’s Local Presence. From Menu to Marketing, We Make It Work.
Menu Optimization
Crafting menus that sell — translation, localization, and photo enhancement.
Team Operations Support
Staff hiring support, operations streamlining, and language gap solutions.
Temporary Support & Consulting
Short-term in-store support (e.g. acting manager) and consulting services.
Local Marketing
Google Business Profile management, review strategies, and local SEO.
Sake & Beverage Curation
Customized drink menus tailored to local customers, enhanced by in-house training on sake, conducted by a Sake Master.
Japanese Cuisine School
Learn the fundamentals of sushi, ramen, yakitori, and more — a training program crafted for restaurant staff and local enthusiasts.
Our Approach
・Cross-Cultural Expertise
-Bridging the cultural gap between Japan and the U.S.
・Hands-On Experience
-Practical improvement methods built through on-site work.
・Local Insight
-Deep understanding of the dining scene around The Bay Area.
・Sales-Driven Thinking
-Revenue-focused strategies for menus, hiring, and more.
About
About Ryusuke Hiyama
Driven by Experience. Rooted in Results.
📍 Based in Mountain View, California
🇯🇵 Originally from Japan
Why I Started This Business
After years of working hands-on in both Japanese and American business environments, I saw the recurring challenges Japanese restaurant owners face in the U.S.: cultural misunderstandings, ineffective marketing, and communication gaps with local teams.With my unique background—sales expertise in Japan and real-world restaurant management experience in California—I decided to launch this service to support Japanese restaurant owners in building profitable, locally-loved businesses.I don’t just advise. I stand by your side in the field, helping you adapt, grow, and thrive.
Career Timeline
2007–2011
Restaurant Manager – Japan
Managed daily operations, staff training, and customer service in a busy restaurant environment. Developed strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of hospitality.
2012–2018
Top Salesperson – Japan’s Newspaper Industry
Consistently achieved top-tier sales performance, surpassing ¥1M in monthly personal sales. Recognized for outstanding negotiation, customer engagement, and persistence in a competitive market.
2019–2023
Silicon Valley – Business, Food, and Import Experience
Studied Business Administration while immersing in Bay Area food culture. Supported multiple Japanese restaurants with menu, operations, and marketing improvements. Worked at a Japanese food import company, gaining expertise in sourcing, supply chains, and local market adaptation.
2023–Present
Restaurant Manager at Sumika Los Altos (Yakitori Izakaya)
Took charge of operations and communication in a multicultural environment. Improved team coordination, updated the beverage program, and implemented cost-effective hiring strategies—leading to steady sales growth and streamlined service.
