Umami Mart Originals

Did you know that the designer of many beloved Bee House (aka Zero Japan) products lives right here in Oakland? We met Yoko Glogowski many years ago, when we first started carrying Bee House tea pots, salt boxes, and condiment pots. She is a vibrant, warm artist who we are lucky to call a friend.

Join us for a super special event where you can browse through one-off ceramic pots, salt shakers, and more, while chatting with Yoko about design. Read more about Yoko in our interview article here.

Have you been hearing about shochu from your friends? From our emails? From coming into the shop? Do you have experience drinking shochu either at our bar or in Japan but never took a deep dive before? Know the difference between shochu and soju??? Join us for this fun and educational program that demystifies this yet-to-be-discovered distilled beverage.

What is Japanese whisky all about? This beginner and intermediate friendly course answers this burning question and more, led by our Spirits Portfolio Manager De'Andre Crenshaw. This seminar will cover history, production, and current trends, plus a guided tasting comprised of five prominent Japanese whiskies.

Join us November 12 for our quarterly book club meeting at Umami Mart to discuss this historical novel. We'll undoubtably talk about what's changed, what hasn't changed, and what needs to change! Our lively discussion will take place at our bar, were you can order tea, sake, and cocktails.