Sip Sake in Seattle
When you’ve had enough of Seattle’s coffee, beer, and wine offerings, head to Sake Nomi in Pioneer Square to learn about and taste premium Japanese sake. Owners Johnnie and Taiko Stroud are trying to spread the enjoyment of this beverage, along with some of the tradition and culture that goes along with it.
Sake Nomi is both a sake store and a sake bar, where sake aficionados and novices alike can share an interest or curiosity in this mysterious alcoholic beverage. Learn, ask questions, taste. And if you find yourself hooked, you can purchase a bottle to take home, or browse through sake related accessories.
Since I’m very much a beginner when it comes to sake, I found these tips interesting and helpful:
- Sake is properly pronounced “sa-kay” (rhyming with day) not “sa-key” (rhyming with me).
- Sake is not served hot, and it is not always served warm either. It was originally heated because doing so eliminated funky flavors and odors. That’s not a problem with modern technology, so lightly or gently warming sake becomes a matter of personal taste preference.
- Most high end sake should be slightly chilled, like white wine, in order to best appreciate the flavors and aromas.
- A few degrees in temperature can make a substantial change in how sake tastes.
Sake lovers will feel right at home at Sake Nomi, and monthly seminars and special tastings offered. If you’re new to the beverage it may take a little time to acquire and appreciate the nuances of the drink, but the Stroud’s will make sure you have a good time while doing it.
Location: 76 South Washington Street, Pioneer Square between 1st Avenue and Alaska Way (map)
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 2-10 pm; Sunday, noon-6 pm. Closed on Monday.
Photo credit: SXC
