A Culinary Welcome to Japanese Culture

From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted by subtle notes of cedar and rice wafting from chilled masu cups. As everyone settled in, Shun began weaving stories that linked each pour to centuries‑old customs—explaining how regional water, rice polishing ratios, and brewing traditions shape flavor and, ultimately, identity.

Pairings That Told a Story

SOHO’s chefs mirrored that narrative on the plate. Silky sashimi was matched with a crisp, lightly effervescent junmai ginjo that accentuated the ocean’s sweetness. Later, a slow‑braised kakuni pork belly arrived alongside a bold yamahai, its earthy depth cutting through richness. With every course, Shun paused to spotlight tasting cues—encouraging guests to notice how temperature and texture shift a sake’s personality.

More Than a Tasting—An Experience

What made the evening special wasn’t only the lineup of premium bottles but the dialogue they sparked. Members swapped notes on newfound favorites, servers chimed in with pairing tips, and laughter filled the room as kanpai echoed off SOHO’s brick walls. By the end, many remarked that they hadn’t just sampled a drink; they had touched a culture.

Looking Ahead

Sake Club was conceived as a bridge between worlds, and this session proved how powerfully food and drink can connect people. We’re already brainstorming the next installment—think seasonal sakes, limited‑edition brews, and maybe even a hands‑on koji workshop.

To everyone who joined: ありがとう—thank you! Your curiosity and good spirits made the night unforgettable. Stay tuned for our next event, and until then, may your cup never be empty.

Kanpai!