Tsuchiya Kaban Appreciation Dinner
2023 in Portland Oregon

We held an exclusive Japanese-style *Omotenashi dinner party for our ambassadors based in Portland on November 16th  2023, at the incredible home of our good friend, Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini. 

* A Japanese expression steeped in the traditions of hospitality and mindfulness, finds its roots in the artful role of the host during a Japanese tea ceremony.

Welcoming our guests with a table adorned in Tsuchiya's signature color, Indigo, in the form of custom-dyed Tenugui (Japanese cloth napkins) and custom chopstick rests crafted by a local glass artist. Enhancing the ambiance with a florist's artful touch of “Ikebana”, our table captures the essence of Portland's autumn, showcasing the vibrant colors of fall foliage.

As our guests arrived, they enjoyed a cocktail with new and old friends while reveling in the world of Tsuchiya's craftsmanship. The guests indulged in masterpieces like “Fun of Carrying” and explored the artistic realm of the “Artist Series”, where Tsuchiya's signature Randoseru were brought to new life with hand-painted drawings by talented artists.

Sharing our Japanese custom of pouring sake in a masu box, Kampai!

We celebrated this special gathering starting with Sake spirits crafted in Oregon. Guests poured overflowing sake each other into glasses within the masu box, partaking in the generous spirit of a Japanese-style 'Kanpai.' This tradition not only embodies our unique form of ”Omotenashi” hospitality but also serves as an expression of heartfelt gratitude.

The bento-style dinner was a multi-course culinary journey, which was not only delicious but truly stunning to behold. Guests savored the rich flavors of Oregon's wild salmon, expertly miso-glazed, alongside traditional Japanese celebratory dishes symbolizing enduring health and happiness. To finish it off on a sweet note, guests helped themselves to Japanese rice flour shortcake and bespoke ice cream, signature creations made by local Portland chefs specially for this event.

Exclusive Sneak Peek into Our Latest Randoseru Model

At the culmination of the party, we proudly unveiled our latest Randoseru model to our guests, showcasing it before anyone else. Drawing inspiration from the Randoseru Thomas had cherished for over 15 years, this masterpiece is the collaborative result of skilled artisans and designers. Soon to be released exclusively on our global site!

The Artisan/makers who made the evening so special.

Catering - Soen, Naomi Molstrom
Beverage - SakeOne, Kimino, Iyoshi Craft Cola
Dessert - Salt&Straw, Mio’s Delectables
Ingredients - Sho Japanese Restaurant, Obon Shokudo
Snacks - Fulamingo
Ikebana Florals - Diane Dixon
Glass holders - Kurumi Conley

Truly a night to remember!
Thank you Thomas Lauderdale and Portland, we love you!

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