Brothers Aaron and Yusuke Jackson Take on Mt. Fuji: A Taste of Japanese Soul Food Adventure – Arkansas Times

Ordering the ochazuke special at Mt. Fuji is like opening a childhood scrapbook for brothers Aaron and Yusuke Jackson. Though they’ve recently taken over this beloved sushi restaurant as it nears 40 years in business, they’re honoring the traditions that defined their youth.

Ochazuke, a simple Japanese dish of rice and tea, has been reimagined by the Jackson brothers. It now features miso butter grilled lobster and cured egg yolks, served tableside. Aaron explains that the goal is to bring the flavors of their childhood to diners in a way that’s unique and special.

In March 2023, just six months after taking charge, a powerful EF-3 tornado struck the shopping center housing Mt. Fuji. Aaron recalls thinking Yusuke was joking when he saw the storm approaching. But it quickly turned serious. Both brothers lost their cars, and Mt. Fuji had to shut down for repairs.

“We knew it would be hard work, but we didn’t expect a tornado,” Yusuke laughs.

Many chefs warned them about taking over such a cherished establishment. “They said it would be a tough road,” Aaron acknowledges. But he adds, it’s not every day that someone gets to carry on a family legacy at a place they love.

Mt. Fuji was opened by Emiko Biggin and her husband, Bruce, in 1987. Back then, sushi was still a novelty for many in Little Rock. The restaurant became a place for local families to experience Japanese cuisine. Aaron and Yusuke’s mother worked there as a server, creating a family-like atmosphere that included their childhood friends and neighbors.

At family gatherings, sushi became a delightful staple. “We mixed it with traditional dishes like turkey and ham,” Aaron recalls with a smile.

After spending time in Dallas, where Aaron learned the ins and outs of the restaurant industry, the brothers returned to Little Rock to purchase Mt. Fuji. They quickly secured their business license and began training under Emiko, learning the ropes of running the restaurant. This smooth transition allowed them to retain the essence of Mt. Fuji while also introducing fresh ideas.

As they took charge, they realized the shopping center was being revitalized. They were fortunate that the new owners wanted to keep Mt. Fuji alive but improve its condition. They currently operate in a new space that retains some of the original charm, like the blue Japanese tiles from the old location, delivered by boat decades ago.

Despite these changes, most of the classic dishes remain unchanged, offering familiar tastes at affordable prices. Longtime staff members joined the Jackson brothers in their endeavor, ensuring that the spirit of Mt. Fuji is preserved.

Alongside traditional favorites like katsudon and sukiyaki, Aaron has also introduced new dishes like hamachi crudo. This refreshing appetizer features yellowtail sashimi with a citrus dressing and ponzu. Another highlight is miso saba, a grilled mackerel dish that showcases authentic flavors, even if some patrons are hesitant due to the fish’s reputation.

The brothers celebrated their first anniversary in the new location with an omakase dinner, which was hugely popular. They brought in high-quality ingredients from Japan, and the response was overwhelming, with over 110 guests eager to experience this special dining event.

“It was a great learning experience,” Yusuke said. They aim to stay true to their roots while continuously evolving the menu. For Aaron and Yusuke, the key is finding that balance—preserving Mt. Fuji’s beloved past while exploring new culinary horizons.