Employees Only

Behind every great meal, there are individuals who works the hardest and often go unappreciated. "Employees Only" is a black and white documentary photo project that seeks to illuminate hard working people behind dining experience. The choice of black-and-white film for this series underscores the timelessness, and pronounced film grain represents sweat and grit of restaurant workers. Each photograph reveals the dedication, camaraderie, and resilience that characterize the daily lives of chefs, servers, dishwashers, and other staff members. Through a series of intimate portraits and candid moments, this collection captures the raw essence of the restaurant environment. This particular submission is from Employees Only - Ramen" episode. As a native Japanese and the son of chefs, the experience of shooting this episode holds a special place in my heart.