Hide-san is the chef on the right.
After he left Maruya (San Francisco), he worked at Umami (also SF) for a little bit then departed.
In talking with random chefs, they say he went to Los Angeles. Has anyone seen him around town at a restaurant and can confirm where? Never got to try his nigiri, but supposedly it’s damn good. If he is anywhere that can prop him up the right way, he will soar.
Thanks so much