Benihana Founder Rocky Aoki passes away

Rocky Aoki, beloved husband, father, friend, well-known entrepreneur and founder of Benihana restaurants, passed away on Thursday, July 10. He was surrounded by his wife Keiko and his six children. The cause was complications from cancer. The family celebrated Mr. Aoki's life in a private ceremony.

Rocky Aoki opened the first Benihana restaurant in 1964 in Manhattan. Although the company has grown to encompass three brands (Benihana, Haru, and RA Sushi) with nearly 90 restaurants worldwide, Rocky’s legacy is much greater than the company. He was also a well-known sportsman, philanthropist, environmentalist and author.

Friends and members of the public who wish to pay their respects to Rocky Aoki are invited to a public visitation in Manhattan, New York on Wednesday, July 16. Visitors will be welcomed between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Frank E. Campbell The Funeral Chapel, 1076 Madison Avenue at 81st Street, New York, NY.

Here's and old commercial with Rocky Aoki


Here's an interview with Rocky Aoki on Forbes