MEET THE Team
Each member plays a vital role in creating memorable dining experiences and upholding our commitment to culinary excellence.
Jay Pugong
CORPORATE CHEF
With a passion for the culinary arts, specifically Japanese cuisine, Jay oversees every aspect of the culinary program at Hell Nori. A dynamic leader, with more than 15 years of culinary experience, Jay continually strives to expand his knowledge, while being an enthusiastic and supportive mentor to his team. Jay never fails to challenge himself to learn exciting new techniques, and Hello Nori continually inspires him to share his growth with guests and future leaders of the brand.
Since 2012, Jay has travelled to Japan annually, working as a guest in various prestigious restaurants in order to satisfy his desire to develop new skills, and bring home fresh perspective on Japanese culinary culture.
Most recently, he was the head chef at Vancouver’s Minami where he was known for pushing boundaries when creating unique dishes, all while contributing to the impressive and incredibly competitive Japanese culinary scene of Vancouver.
Isaac Olivier
DIRECTOR OF RESTAURANT OPERATIONS
Having had the great fortune of working in some of Vancouver’s finest restaurants, both as a team member and as a leader, Isaac Olivier is deeply honoured to share his experience and passion with the Hello Nori team.
Isaac began his hospitality career in Gastown’s steadfast Water St. Café. After working his way up in every possible position, including time spent on the kitchen line, he sought to further his career by joining the well-established Cin Cin as a server. Within a year, Isaac had learned the principles of fine-dining and felt a deep affinity for the craft. Seeking further development, Isaac secured a position in 2015 as a manager at the esteemed Hawksworth restaurant where he learned the art of playing host to a high-profile room. Following was an opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar which provided the most rewarding five years of his career as he worked alongside national champions, witnessed the restaurant receive numerous accolades including restaurant of the year, and was personally awarded the “premier crew” award by Vancouver Magazine, in 2020.
Isaac now sets his sights on the growth and expansion of Hello Nori and looks forward to sharing his passion and enthusiasm with his team and their future leaders!
Atsushi Ogawa
HEAD CHEF
With over two decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Atsushi Ogawa brings a wealth of knowledge, skill and passion to his role as Head Chef.
Atsushi began his career in Ginza, Tokyo at the age of 18. After four years he developed a love of the craft and pursued the disciplines of French, Italian and Spanish Cuisine. After eight years of establishing a strong and varied skill set, Atsushi moved to beautiful Vancouver to continue his career.
With exceptional skills, Atsushi had no problem securing a job as head chef at Vancouver’s Kamei Royale and spent the next ten years developing the menu and team of the popular Vancouver restaurant.
Atsushi was excited about the fresh opportunity at Hello Nori, and has brought an invaluable perspective and work ethic that he shares with the guests and his team each day!
Olivier Havard
GENERAL MANAGER
As a hospitality professional hailing from Paris, France with over 15 years of experience in the industry, Olivier has honed his skills and expertise in delivering exceptional guest experiences.
During his tenure at the prestigious Fouquet's restaurant, Olivier had the privilege of being part of a team dedicated to providing unparalleled service. This esteemed restaurant's ranking as a historic monument speaks volumes to the standards Olivier fastidiously upheld.
His passion for management and leadership, coupled with a love for the hospitality industry, has driven Olivier to expand his horizons travelling through 20 countries, absorbing diverse cultures and cuisines along the way.
These travels brought Olivier to Vancouver and the exciting opportunity at Hello Nori! Olivier is thrilled to bring his wealth of experience and skills to Hello Nori, as he strives to continuously enhance his expertise.