Columbus “anime chef” taking over former Village Taco storefront – 614NOW

Here comes Chef Hiro.

Also known as the Columbus anime chef—as large anime characters decorate the food truck he currently operates—Chef Hiro will soon be serving up his unique blend of Jerk-based soul food from the concept’s first standalone restaurant space. Chef Hiro is currently a Columbus food truck.

The new eatery, which according to owner Jean-Claude Ba is aiming for a Juneteenth opening this year, is located at 1297 Parsons Ave.

Chef Hiro is taking over the former site of Village Taco, the popular plant-based taco restaurant that closed last fall.

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For Ba, securing a standalone brick and mortar is the next step for a concept that has fought to remain stable during COVID.

“It’s a bit of a weird feeling. There’s a small feeling of relief because the brand is finally getting it’s own space, but also a small feeling of anxiety because now is when the real work for the franchise begins,” Ba said.

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