My SGV Podcast
Welcome to the My SGV Podcast. A show where you will hear personal stories of triumph over failures, and how others successfully navigated the unique landscape that is the San Gabriel Valley. What makes us different? Well, just like you, we have chosen the San Gabriel Valley for our home or businesses, or both. We believe it is the people and small businesses that make this community great and we love to share their stories with you. We always encourage your questions and feedback and you can find all of our contact information at sgvmasterkey.com.
My SGV Podcast
Thee Sawadwid - Building Fillet Sushi in Old Town Monrovia
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
Thee Sawadwid is the chef and owner of Fillet Sushi, located in Old Town Monrovia. Raised in Thailand, he transitioned into the culinary world through a deep respect for Japanese discipline and craftsmanship. His path into the profession was defined by hands-on practice and experience in high-level kitchens, including training at Matsuhisa Beverly Hills, rather than formal culinary schooling. Together with his wife and partner, Lin Sawadwid, he has established a dining experience centered on intentional hospitality and technical precision.
This episode explores the journey of launching and operating Fillet Sushi in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. Thee discusses his culinary philosophy, which prioritizes balance, consistency, and restraint over excess. The conversation covers the practicalities of maintaining long-term standards, the importance of a calm dining environment, and his approach to thoughtful evolution. This philosophy honors Japanese foundations while allowing flavor and harmony to lead the way. He also shares the challenges of navigating growth with humility alongside Lin, who oversees the restaurant's operations.
For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley, this episode provides an inside look at the dedication required to run a successful independent business in Monrovia. The guest’s audience and those interested in the culinary arts will find value in his perspective on self-taught mastery and the discipline of sushi. People searching for insights into restaurant management and Japanese food culture will benefit from Thee’s breakdown of how he balances traditional roots with a modern, community-driven business model.
To hear more stories from local leaders and innovators, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you found this conversation insightful, please share this episode with a friend or fellow food enthusiast.
_______________
Music Credits
Intro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Stinger
Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library
Outro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
__________________
My SGV Podcast:
Website: www.mysgv.net
Newsletter: Beyond the Mic
Patreon: MySGV Podcast
info@sgvmasterkey.com
