Blog

One Week Only: Save 30% Off All Otsuka Tableware
March 9, 2017
For a limited time, our entire Otsuka Tableware line is 30% off. These simple and elegant glass dispensers showcase, store, and serve condiments in style.
Bay Eats Japan: March 2017
March 7, 2017
Newly or soon-to-open Japanese restaurants and bars throughout the Bay Area, including Hitachino Beer & Wagyu, Marufuku Ramen, and Karaage Burger.
Event Recap: Japanify All Day at Umami Mart
March 7, 2017
See photos of our party celebrating our Japanify All Day cookbook zine, including winners of our Japanify Golden Ticket contest!
Event Recap: Japanify Zine Party at The Kebabery
March 6, 2017
Our zine release party happened at North Oakland restaurant, The Kebabery. We had kebabs, sake, beer, and fun times! Check out the photos from the event.
Cook Homestyle Japanese Food for the Family
March 3, 2017
Everyday Harumi features 60 Japanese recipes. This is a wonderful introduction to the typical flavors and textures of Japanese cuisine.
The Umami Reader: Kawaii!! Japanese Animal-Shaped Donuts
March 3, 2017
This week's food news includes cute donuts, Noma's dishwasher becomes a co-owner, what Trump's steak preference says about him, and more.
Get Classic Japanese Design: Hard Strong Stacking Glasses
March 2, 2017
Toyo-Sasaki Hard Strong Stacking Glasses are classic Japanese glass tumblers you'll see in ramen shops, izakayas, and other eateries throughout Japan.
10 Years of the Umami Mart Blog
February 27, 2017
Umami Mart started as a food blog back in 2007 by a ragtag group of food lovers around the world who gave an unique, unapologetic perspective.
The Umami Reader: Can Ethnic Restaurants Be "Authentic" If They're Not Cheap?
February 24, 2017
Hawker Fare closed because of the glut of restaurants in Oakland, but also the expectation that ethnic restaurants should be cheap. This and more food news.
We Have Real Deal Mirin, and So Should You
February 23, 2017
Mirin, or sweet cooking sake, is an integral ingredient in Japanese cuisine to add umami and sweetness, richness. But not all mirin is the same.
Japanify: Takikomi Gohan
February 22, 2017
Takikomi Gohan (mixed rice) is a Japanese comfort food that fills the kitchen with an earthy aroma. Made with shiitake mushrooms and hijiki.
The Umami Reader: We Support Restaurants that Support Immigrants
February 17, 2017
Food stuff you should know about this week, Immigrant support in the restaurant industry, the California Croissant, a Bourdain profile, cat wine, and more.