Masa Hamaya

Executive Chef & Partner

Chef Masatomo “Masa” Hamaya is the Executive Chef, Partner, and visionary behind Shokudô, a modern Japanese tavern located in the heart of downtown Charleston, SC.

 Born and raised in Japan, Hamaya’s first experience in the United States was as a college student at Arizona State University. Following graduation, he returned home to Tokyo to learn the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine. After gaining hands-on experience in Tokyo’s culinary scene, Hamaya followed his passion back to the United States, where he formally launched his culinary career. He spent time in kitchens including the critically-acclaimed Uchiko in Austin, Texas as well as Saison, Ozumo and Michelin-starred Ame in San Francisco. Hamaya joined the Indigo Road Hospitality Group in 2020 as Executive Chef at O-Ku in Atlanta and was named head of all Japanese culinary concepts in 2023. In this role, he oversees menu development, staff training, and standards across all Japanese concepts, including O-Ku Sushi, in 7 states.

With Shokudô, Hamaya aims to introduce Charleston to a new side of Japanese cuisine—one that’s interactive, approachable, and steeped in history. He strives to cultivate cultural appreciation and curiosity through hospitality, establishing Shokudô as a destination where Japanese craftsmanship meets Southern hospitality.

When Hamaya is not working, he enjoys spending time with family, exploring his new home in North Charleston, and cooking with loved ones.