Hi, we’re Little Nishi.
It’s nice to meet you.
Founded in September 2023, Little Nishi is an Austin-based food truck with two locations, offering premium hand rolls, fresh sashimi, and inventive Japanese-inspired small plates infused with local flavors.
Our core values are gratitude, commitment, and humility.
Joel Taylor is the founder, owner, and executive sushi chef for Little Nishi.
Joel's love for Japanese cuisine blossomed during his childhood when his parents hosted Japanese exchange students. This passion led him to pursue a sushi apprenticeship at a Japanese restaurant in Chico, CA.
In 2020, Joel began working at Uroko, training under chef and owner Takehiro Asazu and Masaumi Saio for 3 years fine tuning his skills, allowing him to pursue his own creative ventures.
Then, in September 2023, the Little Nishi trailer opened.
The second trailer opened in October 2024.
We’re slated for a brick and mortar by summer 2026.
Continuing his culinary journey, Joel took on the role of head chef at Roll On Sushi Diner in Austin, dedicating three years to the company. His experience then led him to Kome Sushi, where he trained under chefs Toshiake Irie and kazuaki Shimizu for 5 years, learning traditional Japanese technique