MTC JFRE2024

Saturday, September 29th was the Japanese Food & Restaurant Expo (JFRE) held by Mutual Trading at the Pasadena Convention Center.

This is the 33rd time for the expo that introduces and sells the newest Japanese food ingredients and products to restaurant individuals.
It is the longest and largest business show held outside of Japan. More than 140 companies participated to promote their products.

Mutual Trading also introduced their newest easy to make and high quality gyoza and beef bowls.
This is in response to the labor shortage problem in the restaurant industry.

Miyazaki beef and other high-end wagyu were introduced, and long lines were formed to try the samples. Frozen fatty tuna using Super-Frozen technology to preserve its freshness also called attention.

The Sake Pavilion had 52 booths, including 42 were from Japan.
Takara Sake USA that are known for their “Sho chiku bai” brand introduced their newest bourbon barrel aged Junmai sake.

In addition, a selection of sparkling sake, ranging from premium to more affordable options, as well as a variety of cocktails made with shochu, were offered.
From traditional sake to new styles, and from major brands to products from small breweries, a wide variety of offerings were available to meet the diverse needs of the attendees.

The customary Ceramic Fair also happened outside foodstuffs being introduced, and names being engraved on to kitchen knives by the metal engravers was a must-have.

This year’s theme of the expo was “The Essence of WA – Bridging Cultures and Future Through Japanese Cuisine.”

At the venue, different workshops and seminars of: pairing sake with sake cups, chopsticks making, and fashioning takeout boxes from furoshiki cloths were available introducing different Japanese food related culture.

About 2,600 people attended the event, and it ended in great success.

Keiro no Hi Festival 2024

Saturday, September 21st was the “Keiro no Hi Festival” at JANM.

This event is held by the non-profit organization, Keiro that provides services to Japanese American seniors.
Every year, Keiro holds this free community event in honor of the Japanese national holiday, and this year is the 7th time.

About 600 pre-registered participants that are over the age of 60 attended the event from LA, Ventura, and OC using free transportation service.

First, Keiro CEO, Beverly Ito stated her greeting and appreciation to the attendees.
The Consul General Kenko Sone and Assembly member, Al Muratsuchi also giving their greetings, and City of Council member, Kevin de León handing Certificate of Appreciation to the recipients.

Complimentary bento boxes were served during lunch time.
Entertainment like taiko, ukulele, and singing performances were done onstage, and seniors enjoyed their time together by taking pictures with each other.