Blog

The Ubiquitous Kamenoko Tawashi Has a Fascinating Backstory
April 20, 2017
Although the Kamenoko Tawashi is one of the most popular household items in Japan, it originated from a failed invention.
Sake Gumi News: Spring Bling (April 2017)
April 15, 2017
This month’s Sake Gumi features sakes that are fresh, breezy, and fruity. Each of these sakes embody elements I love about spring.
The Umami Reader: The Japanese Wiener Obsession
April 14, 2017
Japanese hot dogs, David Chang's guide to kitchen tools; a scathing review of Le Cinq, Paris; Trap Kitchen, a restaurant founded on Instagram, more.
Simple, But Special: Lacquered Bamboo Chopsticks
April 14, 2017
Our Black and Brown Bamboo Chopsticks are handmade by Wakasa craftspeople in Fukui Prefecture. Minimal in design. Great for everyday use, or for plating.
Diamond Cut Glassware Sale! It Only Happens Once a Year!
April 13, 2017
Our most popular sale of the year. 30% off our entire Diamond Cut glassware line. Sale ends on Sunday, April 16, 2017 or until we sell out.
Here's the Menu for our 2nd Annual Sake Dinner at Camino!
April 11, 2017
Here's the menu for our three-course, sake-paired dinner at Camino. This spring-themed meal will be prepared by Russell Moore in Camino's wood-fire oven.
It's MAC, the Knife!
April 7, 2017
The MAC Santoku Knife is a reliably great everyday chef knife for all entry levels, from occasional home cook to professional chef. Made in Japan.
The Umami Reader: Here's How You Shouldn't Eat Soup Dumplings
April 7, 2017
A video about soup dumplings gets it all wrong, that tone-deaf Pepsi commercial with Kendall Jenner is so bad, traditional Asian post-partum recipes, more.
The New Gold Standard: Yukiwa Gold Boston Shaker Set
April 6, 2017
Made by renowned Japanese barware makers, Yukiwa, the Gold Boston Shaker Set consists of two high-quality gold-plated stainless steel tins.
Bay Eats Japan: April 2017
April 5, 2017
A list of the latest and upcoming Bay Area Japanese restaurants, including new ramen in Burlingame, sushi + omakase in San Francisco, and shochu in Oakland.
As Seen in the Breakfast Club: Soy Sauce Dispenser for One
March 31, 2017
This glass soy sauce dispenser harkens back to that iconic lunch scene in The Breakfast Club. Pour yourself the perfect portion of shoyu. Handmade in Japan.
Think Inside the Box with Ohashi Masu
March 31, 2017
Ohashi Masu are made for drinking sake, but you can use them for spices, art and office supplies, cards, and much more. Made in Japan.