Masa Ishizawa

Wynn/Encore

Okada at Wynn

Executive Chef

Masa Ishizawa, Executive Chef of Okada, Wynn Las Vegas’ energetic, contemporary Japanese restaurant, creates flavorful dishes that expertly marry fresh produce with a variety of fish selections to create innovative pairings. Among Ishizawa’s recognitions at Okada is the 2008 AAA Four-Diamond award.

A veteran of the restaurant industry, Ishizawa’s talents first emerged in his hometown of Kyoto, Japan. After attending college in San Francisco, the chef returned to Japan to work in some of the country’s finest kitchens including the Kyoto Hotel, Sciyo Zendokoro “Okumura” and Bell in Shiga where he developed and honed his classic Japanese culinary techniques. Upon returning to the United States, Chef Ishizawa had the opportunity to work with Nobu Matsuhisa and Julian Serrano, and cites both as mentors.

“I believe in using clean, simple ingredients that are seasonal and authentic,” says Ishizawa. “At Okada, we have a classic Japanese menu for all seasons as we do in Kyoto where I grew up.”

Prior to joining Wynn Las Vegas, Ishizawa was the corporate and executive sous chef at The Riviera Country Club & Tennis Club in Pacific Palisades, CA, a platinum, exclusive golf and tennis club with 30 hotel rooms. In this role he oversaw the planning and production of all VIP events and the Terrace Dining Room, the resort’s main dining area.

Chef Ishizawa made a name for himself in San Francisco before moving to Las Vegas. During his time there he worked at Hotel Nikko, MASA’S Restaurant, Brasserie Tomo (awarded three stars by the San Francisco Chronicle) and was the owner and chef of Chika, a Japanese restaurant and sushi bar.