[Photographer's notes: Jean Chiang and Rock Fu are some of the hardest working people I know—not only because they are in the food industry—but because they care so much about the quality of the food they serve and are committed to providing a real sense of community through their eatery. I was lucky enough to be given complete access to their restaurant to capture—through photographs—what their day was like, and it was busy! What is shown here is only a fraction of the incredible images that capture Jean and Rock's true sense of commitment, an all-hands-on-deck work ethic and warm customer rapport.]

About the Kizuna Sushi & Ramen: Was there ever a time when a friend told you about a great, locally-owned and family-run restaurant located right under your nose? That immediate bond and sense of gratitude toward your friend for sharing this knowledge are precisely how some patrons feel when they visit Kizuna Sushi & Ramen, a Japanese eatery in Vienna, Virginia. And, it is this bond and the relationships forged that form the namesake of this venue.

Kizuna means bonds between people. This, is a place, friends tell friends about.

And, owners, Rock Fu and Jean Chiang, delight in this "word-of-mouth" reputation. Situated in a modest location off a small service road in the heart of Tysons Corner, Virginia, Kizuna Sushi & Ramen might be easy to miss but the locals are persistent and it pays off, especially if you enjoy a purist version of ramen.

"We really care about the quality of the food here and we don't take short-cuts," says Chiang.

The eatery along with its fresh, carefully prepared menu is a welcome change from the excess of chain restaurants that saturate the area. Opened for nearly three years now, Kizuna Sushi & Ramen is a place where you'll feel part of the community.