From Fine Dining to Ice Cream with Snow Crane's Chef Takeshi Nishikawa

On this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, I’m joined by Chef Takeshi Nishikawa, founder of Snow Crane—a Japanese-inspired ice cream shop coming to Hyattsville, Maryland in 2025. After years leading high-profile kitchens like the Michelin-starred Rose’s Luxury and Pineapple and Pearls, Takeshi is now channeling his energy into small-batch, seasonal ice cream that reflects his minimalist approach and deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions. We talk about the challenges of launching a culinary business, and how he"s applying his fine dining background to a neighborhood-focused ice cream shop. He shares lessons learned from overseeing complex catering operations, why mentorship is critical, and how he’s laying the groundwork for Snow Crane’s success. TAKESHI  NISHIKAWA Instagram for Snow Crane and chef Takeshi Snow Crane"s website New Kitchens on the Block (April 26th) - Try Snow Crane"s ice cream CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear"s personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show