Zac Hill's culinary journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. His new restaurant, Gaijin Sandos, is a celebration of Japanese-style sandwiches, bringing a unique twist to New Orleans' dining scene. But the story of Gaijin Sandos begins long before its opening, with a childhood filled with culinary curiosity and a grandmother's guidance.
A Culinary Curiosity
Hill's interest in cooking sparked at the age of 8, when he expressed a desire to cook to his grandmother. This led to a memorable summer of learning and experimentation, though the exact dish remains a mystery. This early experience instilled in him a love for the process of cooking, the successes, and the failures, shaping his future approach to food.
A Detour and a Return to Cooking
Hill's culinary journey took a detour when he attended Tulane University, initially studying architecture and then switching to business school with the goal of opening a coffee shop. However, a visit to San Francisco's Atelier Crenn ignited a new passion. The restaurant's attention to detail and theatricality inspired him to pursue food and create a robust dining experience.
The Pandemic and the Birth of Gaijin Sandos
The pandemic brought a new opportunity. Hill took a job at Union Ramen, where he worked for over four years, becoming chef de cuisine. A chance encounter with a bartender at DBA led to hosting pop-ups, where he introduced Japanese-style sandwiches to the city. The positive response fueled his passion, and he eventually quit his job to focus on Gaijin Sandos full-time.
A Simple Yet Robust Menu
Gaijin Sandos offers a menu that showcases the simplicity and robustness of Japanese cuisine. The fried chicken sando, for instance, is a masterpiece, combining crispy chicken with pimento cheese, pickled jalapeños, and sesame slaw. The tamago sando, a simple egg salad sandwich, and the fruit sando, featuring seasonal fruit and yuzu chantilly cream, are also crowd favorites.
Attention to Detail
Hill's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the restaurant. He spends three hours a day preparing the milk bread, a labor of love that results in soft, pillowy slices. This dedication to quality reflects his belief in never doing things halfway.
A New Orleans Staple
Gaijin Sandos is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Japanese cuisine in the heart of New Orleans. Hill's passion and perseverance have created a unique dining experience that is sure to become a staple in the city's culinary landscape. As he continues to innovate and inspire, Gaijin Sandos is poised to become a beloved destination for food lovers everywhere.
