Maynard James Keenan opens Arizona sushi spot
Beyond the riff and the rhythm, Maynard James Keenan is cultivating a unique kind of empire in Northern Arizona, blending high-level music and exquisite cuisine into a vibrant regional experience. The frontman, known for his deep connection to culture and quality, is expanding his hospitality footprint with a new addition to the growing Verde Valley scene: Queen B Sushi.
Set to open on September 4th in Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona, this upscale Japanese restaurant represents the latest chapter in the Queen B universe he has developed alongside his wife, Jennifer. This venture builds upon a long-standing commitment to creating immersive, high-quality spaces that cater to both culinary delight and artistic community.
The roots of Keenan’s passion for sushi extend back nearly four decades. His journey to culinary appreciation began while living in Boston around 1987, but it was his first Japanese tour with A Perfect Circle in 2000 that truly ignited a profound appreciation. That experience was so transformative that his souvenirs included titanium and hardwood travel chopsticks from Snow Peak, which he has carried ever since. In fact, he recalls carrying them in his pocket for twenty-five years—a small detail that speaks volumes about his love for the food.
This dedication to culinary excellence is now realized through Queen B Sushi. The restaurant is not just a place to dine; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience. The concept itself emerged almost accidentally while developing the Queen B Vinyl Café, leading to the realization that the perfect culinary operation was already in place. Now, the space is managed by culinary director and chef Brett Vibber, who brings a wealth of experience, including Roka Akor locations in London, Hong Kong, and the U.S.
Vibber’s team is a powerhouse, featuring Chef Chuhiro “Thomas” Kato, who trained under masters like Nobu Matsuhisa and Masaharu Morimoto, alongside Chef Sheridan “Sher” Chase, an Arizona native with experience across California and Texas kitchens. This team ensures that the sushi experience is built on a foundation of authentic, world-class technique.
The dining experience is further enhanced by Keenan’s commitment to pairing, offering a rotating selection of wines sourced from his own Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards. This holistic approach ensures that every visit to Queen B Sushi is a celebration of taste and discovery.
This expansion reflects Keenan’s broader work in the region. Over two decades, he has helped establish the Verde Valley as a serious wine destination, successfully campaigning for the region’s AVA certification in 2021. Whether establishing fine dining or nurturing the local wine industry, Keenan continues to weave a rich tapestry of culture and commerce across Northern Arizona.
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