Micaela Giambanco – A Renowned Figure in Rome’s Sushi Scene “Building a bridge between Japan and Italy – one piece of sushi at a time.”

2025.5.20

In the heart of Rome’s San Giovanni district, a cozy little eatery named Izakaya Mikachan is gaining popularity for offering an authentic, traditional of Japanese cuisine. At the helm is chef-owner Micaela Giambanco, affectionately known as Mikachan.
Having trained extensively in Japan, Mikachan made headlines in 2018 after winning the preliminary round of the World Sushi Cup 2018, where her creative and elegant take on Edo-style sushi captivated the judges.
We spoke with her about her culinary journey, her restaurant, and why she places her trust in the tools kitchenware made by Hasegawa Corporation.

Izakaya Mikachan

Izakaya Mikachan is a cozy, Japanese-style eatery tucked away in the San Giovanni neighborhood of Rome. The restaurant is filled with Japanese goods, creating an atmosphere that feels just like a hidden spot in Japan.
In addition to running the restaurant, Mikachan also leads a culinary school where she teaches traditional Japanese home cooking to Italian locals. Her classes focus on fostering cultural understanding through food, offering participants a hands-on introduction to the flavors and techniques of everyday Japanese cuisine.
Izakaya Mikachan has earned a loyal following not only for its culinary excellence, but for its warm hospitality and deep cultural authenticity. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Japan in Rome.