Shiku Sushi in Ballard hosted an unforgettable Sake and Jazz night, where guests were treated to a special menu featuring exquisite sushi pairings and premium Joto sake brands. The atmosphere was elevated by Jun Iida and his quintet, who performed a soulful tribute to 2000’s hip hop classics, seamlessly blending smooth jazz with nostalgic beats. The combination of delectable sushi, vibrant sake, and the electrifying music created a laid-back yet lively vibe, making it a night to remember for everyone in attendance.

Jazz & Sake Series at Kai's Bistro (2024-2025)

In 2023 and 2024, Kai’s Bistro's intimate back bar hosted a series of unforgettable jazz events, blending live music with a curated sake menu for a one-of-a-kind experience. These exclusive evenings featured the incredible talents of Jun Iida, a local Japanese American trumpet player, and his quintet, bringing a unique blend of smooth jazz and vibrant improvisation to the venue.

This special evening featured a one-of-a-kind collaboration between two talented chefs, Pap Wongsakorn and Alisha Davis, and myself bringing our unique cultural influences and industry experiences to the table through food and drink.

I hosted a personal pop-up featuring an extensive sake menu paired with classic Cantonese dishes at Kai Bistro’s back bar. The event offered a curated selection of premium sakes, thoughtfully matched with traditional Cantonese flavors, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

In 2024, Kai's Bistro's back bar hosted a thrilling pairing dinner where a wine sommelier and a sake sommelier went head-to-head to prove which beverage best complemented classic Cantonese dishes. Guests enjoyed a delicious multi-course menu, with each dish expertly paired by both sommeliers, sparking friendly competition and lively conversation. The event showcased the unique qualities of both wine and sake, offering a fun and interactive experience to discover the perfect pairing for traditional Cantonese flavors.