Montrealers know Hiroshi Kitano as the purposeful solo chef in the kitchen at Kitano Shokudo, his soulful Japanese bistro in the heart of the Plateau.
But what they might not know is that twenty years ago, he left his home in Ise City, Mie prefecture on the southern Japanese island of Honshu with a dream to play basketball in America.
Now the co-owner of the light-filled, brand-new Ohayo Café right next door to Kitano Shokudo, Hiroshi’s passage to Montreal—and away from basketball—makes perfect sense.
“We found the best place for me and my family to live,” he says. “We’re super happy here.”

“We found the best place for me and my family to live. We’re super happy here.”
Unlock Montreal’s stories. Join The Main community.
Read this story free.
Enter your email to unlock your first article and get The Bulletin — our weekly roundup of food, art, and local culture.
- 5 free articles per month
- Save your favourite places & guides
- Weekly newsletter The Bulletin
- Stay connected to Montreal culture
Become an Insider.
Join a community that supports independent Montreal stories and celebrates the people shaping its culture.
Subscribe- Unlimited access to all stories
- Exclusive features & local insights
- Special offers and event invites
- 10% off in our shop
- Support local storytelling
Already a member? Sign in









