Blog

Why Does Jim Meehan of NYC's PDT Love the Birdy Shaker?
February 4, 2016
The Birdy CS500 has a sleek, sexy design that helps chill drinks and prevents watery cocktails. And it has Jim Meehan of PDT's stamp of approval!
Umami Map: Top 3 Ramen Spots in the Bay Area
February 2, 2016
Top 3 ramen shops in the Bay Area. Ramen is a touchy subject in the Bay Area. Scratch that, it is a touchy subject ANYWHERE.
Falernum: A Taste of Tiki
January 28, 2016
Adding falernum to your rum or tequila drink will take your mouth on a tropical vacation. Find out how to use this sweet, spicy syrup in your next cocktail.
Event Recap: 3rd Annual Japan Beer Fest
January 28, 2016
At our third annual Japan Beer Fest at the Trappist, we offered 30+ microbrews from Japan and fried rice from Ramen Shop. It was rad.
Sneak Peek: The Pot Still at Hitachino Brewery
January 26, 2016
The makers of beloved Japanese Hitachino craft beer (Kiuchi Brewery) will distill whisky next!
Nest is Best: Visiting the Hitachino Beer Brewery in Japan
January 22, 2016
It was our true pleasure to visit the Hitachino Brewery in Japan last week where Hitachino Nest is brewed.
Matcha Salt – It's Like Green Gold Dust
January 21, 2016
A sprinkle of this Matcha Salt can finish and elevate a dish with earthy umami flavor. Handmixed for Umami Mart by Oaktown Spice Shop.
January 15, 2016
This video flips through Jiro Gastronomy, a full-color book of 60 pieces of sushi served at famed Tokyo restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro. Get ready to drool...
Sake Gumi News: Bold Brews (Jan 2016)
January 15, 2016
Jitsuraku Tokubetsu Junmai Kimoto, Shichi Hon Yari “The Seven Spearsmen” Junmai, Yamato Shizuku Junmai, Inemankai “Ine’s Full Bloom” Red Junmai Genshu sake.
Tokyo JUNKtion: Oreno Dashi in Akasaka
January 13, 2016
We ate at Oreno Dashi in Akasaka, Tokyo, which specializes in oden and soba made by Michelin-starred chefs.
Postcard from Tokyo: Tis the Season for Shirako
January 11, 2016
Visiting Tsukiji Sushiko, best cheap sushi in Tokyo, to eat Shirako fish sperm.
Upcoming Event: The Third Annual JAPAN BEER FEST
January 7, 2016
Join us at the Trappist in Oakland for Japan Beer Fest on Jan 24, 2016 for 20+ Japanese craft beers and Ramen Shop fried rice!