Japantown is Open! (sort of)

 

Irasshaimasu!

Ever so slowly, Seattle’s Japantown businesses are peeking out from behind plywood to welcome you for whatever you need. So where can a visitor explore the historic neighborhood these days? Here’s the short list, with more doors cautiously opening every week. Come on down — and arigato for wearing a mask!

SHOP

 

Daiso

Seven days a week, 10:00 - 7:00

$1.50 shop

710 6th Avenue South

daisojapan.com

206.623.3312

 

International Model Toys

Seven days a week, 11:30 - 7:30

For the hobbyist and collector

524 South King Street

206.682.8534

 

Kinokuniya Bookstore

Seven days a week, 10:00 - 6:00

Books, CDs, stationery galore

525 South Weller Street

kinokuniya.com

206.587.2477

Momo

Friday and Saturday, 

Noon - 5:00

Or by appointment (lala@momoseattle.com)

Happy ‘hapa’ shop for men and women

600 South Jackson Street

momoseattle.com

206.329.4736

Pink Gorilla Games

Seven days a week, 11:00 - 7:00

Video games, anime toys

601 South King Street

pinkgorillagames.com

206.264.24.34

 

Savvy Cosmetics

Seven days a week, 11:00 - 5:00

Japanese beauty treatment, skincare and cosmetics

Located inside Uwajimaya

600 5th Avenue South

206.223.1866

 

Trichome

Monday, Wednesday - Saturday, Noon - 6:00

Sunday, 12:00 - 5:00

Lifestyle shop for the cannabis culture

618 South Jackson Street

trichomeseattle.com

206.905.9884

 

Uwajimaya

Seven days a week, 8:00 - 8:00

Asian persuasion gift/grocery store

4601 6th Avenue South

uwajimaya.com

206.624.3215

 

EAT & DRINK

 

Fuji Bakery

Take out only

Monday - Saturday, 7:30 - 5:00

Sunday, 7:30 - 4:00

French-Japanese pastry café

526 South King Street

fujibakeryinc.com

206.623.4050

 

Fuji Sushi

Dine in and take out

Tuesday - Sunday, 11:00 - 9:30

Sushi and bento in a contemporary setting

520 South Main Street

fujisushiseattle.com

206.624.1201

 

Fort St. George

Dine in: Monday - Saturday, 5:00 - 10:00

Take out: Friday and Saturday, 11:30 - 2:00, Sunday, 11:00 - 8:00

Casual fusion of Japanese/American

601 South King Street

fortstgeorgeseattle.com

206.382.0662

Maneki

Take out only

Tuesday - Sunday, 4:30 - 8:30

Mom-style cooking

304 6th Avenue South

manekiseattle.com

206.622.2631

Momosan Ramen & Sake

Take out only

Seven days a week, 11:30 - 8:00

Noodle shop of a famous Iron Chef

504 5th Avenue South

Momosanramen.com

 

Musashi’s

Dine in and take out

Lunch: Monday - Saturday, 11:00 - 2:30

Dinner: Monday - Saturday, 4:30 - 9:00

Japanese favorites done quickly

512 South King Street

206.829.0277

 

Panama Hotel Tea and Coffee

Sip in and take out

Seven days a week, 9:00 - 3:00

Historic hotel offering tea, coffee and cocktails

605-1/2 South Main Street

panamahotelseattle.com

206.223.9242

 

Samurai Noodle

Take out only

Monday - Thursday, 11:00 - 8:00

Friday - Sunday, 11:00 - 8:30

Authentic ramen and gyoza

606 5th Avenue South

samurainoodle.com

206.624.9321

 

Tsukushinbo

Dine in dinner only: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 5:00 - 10:00

Friday and Saturday, 5:00 - 11:00, Sunday, 5:00 - 9:00

Take out: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, Noon - 10:00

Friday and Saturday, Noon - 11:00, Sunday, Noon - 9:00

Take out mini lunch special: Wednesday - Sunday, Noon - 2:00

Secret restaurant and sushi bar

515 South Main Street

206.467.4004

 

EXPLORE

 

Danny Woo Garden

Open during daylight hours

An active community garden

Visit the Kobe stone lantern at the top

Across from the Panama Hotel

 

Nihonmachi Alley

Open 24/7

A tribute to historic Japantown featuring murals and more

On South Jackson between Sixth and Maynard

 

Pioneer Barber Company

Monday, Wednesday - Friday, 10:00 - 6:00

Saturday, 10:00 - 5:00

Modern barbershop within an historic space

314 6th Avenue South

pioneerbarbercompany.com

206.623.3056

 

ETC

 

Artform

Wednesday and Thursday, 10:30 - 5:00

Custom quality framing services

527 South Main Street

206.467.7074

  

FRIENDS OF JAPANTOWN

 

Susu Dessert Bar

Take out only

Friday - Sunday, 11:00 - 3:00

Epicurean Eurasian pastries

665 South King Street

sususeattle.com

New Star Seafood

Take out only

Seven days a week, 11:00 - 10:30

Cantonese and Hong Kong-style classic cuisine

516 South Jackson Street

newstarseafood.com

206.622.8801

 

World Pizza

Take out only

Tuesday - Saturday, 3:00 - 7:00

Vegetarian slices and pies, salads and sweets

672 South King Street

worldpizzaseattle.com

206.682.4161

 

 

 

In these days of Endless Summer, how do you know it’s Friday?

Because Momo and Susu Dessert Bar, a delicious new addition to the neighborhood, are both open! Giving you two worthwhile reasons to trek on down to the District on the weekend — shopping AND sweets. 

Much like Momo, the café owned by Katie and chef Muhammad Fairoz brings together Asian and European influences to create a wholly unique experience. Currently, offerings are limited and very special. Newbies may want to start with a kouign amann (pronounced queen-ya-mahn). Sort of a cross between a malasada and croissant, it’s at once flaky, soft and buttery with a crunchy, caramelized finish. After sinking his teeth into one of these heavenly orbs, Mr. Momo proclaimed, “It's got everything going for it!” Two thumbs up from a finicky foodie.

Adventuresome eaters will want to sample pastries featuring durian, the Southeast Asian fruit notorious for its objectionable fragrance and delicious flesh. Among the creations are durian fancier and durian pâte à choux or cream puff. Momo Mamo has yet to find the courage to try the peculiar fruit, preferring to stick with more understated options like the lemon cake — dense, moist, perfectly tart and beautiful to behold. 

There is so much more and the menu varies. At present, everything is to go, with friendly service at the walk up window. We look forward to the day we can sit within the sparkling fresh restaurant and enjoy a glass of wine with dessert. In the meantime, go early to make sure you get what you’re craving — and tell them Momo sent you.

And Momo is OPEN. Since you’re in the ’hood, don your Hawaiian shirt and party mask and give us a visit. Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 - 5:00. We miss you and can’t wait to see your eyes. Or, if a private shopping session is preferable, that can be arranged: drop us an email at lala@momoseattle.com. Check us out online at momoseattle.com, on IG: @hellomomoseattle and FB: MOMOseattle

Susu Dessert Bar

Friday - Sunday, 11:00 - 3:00

665 South King Street

In the Louisa Hotel

sususeattle.com

And Mahalo to sister Carrie Wedemeyer for the idyllic photo and graphic treatment. Check out her design on IG: @eat.drink.dezign

Happy Aloha Friday!

Momo to Go: The Dad’s Day Edition

Uh, so what day is it again? It’s almost Dad’s Day — Sunday, June 21. Time to send a little love to the father figures in our lives. We’ve combed through our current collection to bring you our favorites from Momo to Go. And of course, it wouldn’t be the same without our fame-ish sets, so here are a few. We’re always open to mixing and matching ... send us an email at lala@momoseattle.com to get your gift going. For a complete guide to Momo to Go, visit our post on More Momo to Go. And thanks, Dad. 

Time for a change: Is dad ready to ditch the sweatshirt he’s been wearing for the past 80 days? Hit ‘Refresh’ with a heather grey cotton pocket sweater from Copenhagen. Casual, lightweight comfort is perfect for hanging out or Zoom meeting at home; $120. Cut a little long with a semi-slim fit. S-M-L-XL. 

The gift of time: The Logic stainless steel watch with Seiko quartz movement is an expression of rugged elegance. Featuring a 42mm diameter case with a real wood dial face on a sturdy 22mm Italian leather band. Screw-down crown assures water resistance to 330 feet; $150.

For the Waterman: Unisex watch with bright Lume dial in 38mm diameter stainless steel case with Seiko quartz movement. Screw-down crown assures water resistance to 660 feet; $155.

$ocks Set; $39 - $49

Say you love him from his wallet, right down to his toes. Your choice of sleek leather accessory paired with either Italian dress socks or sporty Japanese socks. 

Flip Fold

First the wallets: 

A simple flip fold that fits neatly in a pocket. ID window, slots for credit cards, business cards and cash, 4.25" x 3.25". In Brown/Black, Cobalt/Yellow, Black/Brown or Red/Black. 

Sleek bi-fold with room for ID, credit cards and cash. 4.25" x 3.375". In Black/Brown, Mahogany or Black. 

Bi-Fold

Then the socks: 

Italian socks add the right amount of levity to a look. Made in Italy of fine cotton (rugby stripe is light weight merino wool), in a smooth knit that feels cool on the feet. Fits shoe sizes 8.5-12. Designs left to right: Gone Fishing, Diamonds, Tiny Dots, Dinosaur Bones or Thin Stripe Rugby. 

Japanese reversible socks give you twice as much wear! Ankle length fits men’s shoe size 8-10. In Light Grey or Desert Tan. 

Japanese performance sport socks with engineered compression arch-fit support. Extremely comfortable whether you’re finishing the back nine or spending the day touring. Fits men’s shoe size 8-10. In Sea Blue or Pop Green. 

Italian

Japanese reversible

Japanese Performance 

Grooming Combo; $75

Dad will be looking dandy with our Billy Jealousy shave creme and aftershave (substitute face moisturizer for after shave if you'd like) and smile brightening Italian toothpaste, all tied up furoshiki-style in a locally made ‘Know Your Fishing Knots’ bandana. We have only two bandanas in stock, so if you like this one, please let me know ASAP. 

Father Fix It; $35

A great gift for the gadget geek includes a lightweight cotton beanie, milled in Canada, and a pen screw tool with eight micro heads for tightening the smallest of screws (think glasses, watches and computers). And, a multi-function, handyman pen friend. Select your choice of colors for all three. 

Hot Stuff Special; $38

Spice up your dad’s daily routine with a these choice peppery products. ‘No Spice, No Life’ sticker from a local Seattle artist says it all, along with a packet of Japanese togarashi, Seattle-made Mama Dragon grinder blending Himalayan salt with jalapeño, habanero, chili and ghost peppers. Plus, a jar of everyone’s favorite Mama Lil’s pickled goat horn peppers. 

Mother’s Day is in the Bag with Mom-O to Go

Happy Mother’s Day! Momo sends big love to all moms, those who have mothered another, and anyone who nurtures and inspires you.

And for Seattle-ites, it’s not too late for Mother’s Day Momo to Go (MtG), easy peasy with our unique Kimono Kits. Pick from two sets of Japanese kimono silk pouches filled with little luxuries — ‘Deluxe’ with five products or ‘Essentials’ with three products (so sorry, Essentials set is sold out, see Deluxe kit for update). For delivery, I can pop in the mail, drive within five miles for $5, or you’re welcome to fly by for pre-arranged pick up.

Kimono Kit Deluxe: Cosmetics pouch
with five pampering products; $100.

Kimono Kit Deluxe; $100. Includes a roomy gusseted pouch filled with a full-size soap, Italian toothpaste, Japanese moisturizer and lip balm, and solid perfume. This bag is perfect for cosmetics, lotion and other everyday necessities. Update: Since the Essentials Set is sold out, you are welcome to purchase the Deluxe pouch ($47) and pick whatever you’d like to put inside to make your own kit, cost will vary according to what you choose. 

Kimono Kit Essentials: Flat Pouch with three treats; $60. 

Kimono Kit Essentials; $60. Tucked into a slim, flat pouch you’ll find a full-size soap, Italian toothpaste and Japanese moisturizer. This pocket is ideal for phone cords, notepads and other small items. Update: This flat pouch is sold out. 

How does it work? It’s simple as 1-2-3! 

1. Pick Your Pouch. Our vintage kimono silk pouches are hand sewn by Portland textile artist Katherine Ragghianti. Lightweight, zippered and lined in plastic, they’re smart for travel.

Kimono Kit Deluxe pouches: Starting at top left and going clockwise, state color(s) and 1-2-3-4-5-6. Please give first and second choice. I have more (similar) options on hand, too. Dimensions: 7" wide x 5" tall x 2" deep. Update: front left pouch is reserved for Jiawen!



Kimono Kit Essentials pouches: Starting at the top left and moving clockwise, state 1-2-3-4. Please give a first and second choice. Dimensions: 9" wide x 6" tall x 3/8" deep. Update: Essentials flat pouch is sold out, you are welcome to substitute the Deluxe pouch for $82 total. 2. Pick Your Soap, Moisturizer and Toothpaste.

Formulary 55 Bath Bars

Formulary 55 shea butter soap is hand made in Pueblo, Colorado by a duo of once-residents of Seattle. Try it and you’ll fall in love with the creaminess and divine fragrance. Bath bar lasts through many a lather at 6 oz. Apiary No. 55 is Milk & Honey.

Yu-Be super moisturizer. 

Yu-Be moisturizing face and body cream helps you say sayonara to dry skin. Invented in 1957, this non-comedogenic, glycerin-based concentrate from Japan is a proven winner. Original formula in orange box has a bit of a camphor scent, Advanced Formula in green contains chamomile extract.

Marvis Italian toothpaste.

Marvis Italian toothpaste will turn your daily ritual into a dental delight. It leaves your mouth clean and fresh without an aftertaste, and doesn’t contain flouride (a good thing as I’m allergic). Choose from Classic Mint, Whitening (voted one of the best whitening toothpastes by Allure Magazine, or exotic Jasmine Mint. 

3. Pick Your Fragrance. For Kimono Kit Deluxe, choose from six scents from Portland’s Sweet Anthem, thoughtfully made of soy wax, organic shea butter and essential oils.
Freyja: Warm amber, comforting tonka bean and traquil blueberry.
Juliet: Jasmine sambac flowers, orange blossoms and pink pepper.
Annabelle: Sweltering jasmine, Osmanthus and sea spray.
Elliott: Pinyon pine, labdanum and tonka bean.
Anton: Apple, wasabi, sandalwood and cedar.
Colin: Cardamom, saffron, mahogany and fig.

Sweet Anthem Solid Perfume includes unisex fragrances. 

Like to add a card? I have one of each of these made in Hawaii by Mozaic Paper (my talented sister’s design firm). Standard size cards are letterpress on fine paper; $6. Gift enclosures are printed; $2. Please share first and second choice.

Hawaii-style greetings from Mozaic Paper.

Ready to order? Email lala@momoseattle.com with the following information:
- Your full name and phone number
- Full name and address of the person receiving your gift
- Deluxe or Essentials and first and second choices of
   > Pouch
   > Soap
   > Moisturizer
   > Toothpaste
   > Fragrance if relevant (Lip balm as is)
   > Card if you’re adding
- Any message you would like to include if you are not picking up

Each kimono pouch is unique and quantities are limited, so act soon if you’re interested. I’ll be working solo fulfilling order throughout the week so your patience is appreciated. Prices are pre-tax and delivery (no tax on shipping or MtG drop off). Also, I’m collecting payment via Venmo, Zelle or cash. Thank you and Happy Mother’s Day!

More Momo to Go!

Welcome to more Momo to Go! I’m tickled with the happy (and overwhelming) response ... and it’s time for answers to commonly asked questions. Interested? Please read through and send me an email. Thanks much!

What is Momo to Go (MtG)? 
MtG are tasty sets of small delights, for a gift or gift-to-self. You can participate in what’s included, or leave it to me. The process requires your patience, and I appreciate that, as I take care of everything, from picking, to wrapping, to walking to the post office —making it a uniquely personal ‘online’ shopping experience.

How do I get my MtG order started?
Email me at lala@momoseattle.com (my name is Lei Ann but you can call me Lala, too!) with the following information:
- Your full name
- Your phone number
- Full name and address of the person receiving the MtG
- Your desired price range, including tax
- Details about what you’re looking for including likes, for example “foodie, hedgehogs and the color orange”
- Any other helpful information, including special occasion and date

How do I begin to know what my choices are?
- Peruse our blog and choose from one of our pre-made sets.
- Add to and subtract from an existing set, for example, you like Ramen Lover and want to add a Ramen Shark tee and decal, but don’t want the tea towel — no problem!
- If you don’t see what you want, ask me.
- So sorry! Currently we’re not able to restock, so some items sell out.

Is everything you offer shown on your blog?
We’ve got a brick-and-mortar full of goods including men and women’s clothing and jewelry. Eventually we’ll get around to posting, time permitting. For now, if you don’t see what you want, tell us what you’re looking for ... always happy to send a few photos.

How much does a MtG order cost?
Price will vary according to what’s in your package, starting at $40 and on to $150 (including tax). or higher, it’s up to you. Shipping and handling is additional.

How do I pay for my MtG?
- Venmo (our favorite way)
- Zelle (I’ll send an invoice)
- Cash
- Check in some cases

How soon can I get my MtG?
Currently the fulfillment is 7 - 10 days from the time of your request. Keep in mind that I’m working solo, shuttling between the shop and home, so everything’s always where I’m not! If your package is for an occasion, allow two weeks to ensure your gift is delivered on time.

How is MtG delivered and what does that cost?
- Pick up: at Momo at time that works for both of us, no charge.
- Hand delivery: within five miles of Momo for $5.
- US Post Office: rates estimated between $7 to $14 depending on destination.

If it’s a gift, can I include a note?
Definitely. You can either purchase a card and I’ll write a message of your choice, or I can include a postcard with your note.

Momo-a-Go-Go

Hankering for a little retail relief? Introducing Momo to Go, tasty hand-selected sets of our favorite gifts, ready for takeout or delivery*! Many combos are one-of-a-kind, so don’t dally — take your pick and give us a jingle. Feel free to use this menu as a starting point to customize your own sets (substitutions welcome, additional charges may apply). Delivery is $5 within a five-mile radius of Momo. Shipping charges apply to orders farther afield.

Message us: 

FB: @hellomomoseattle 

Email: lala@momoseattle.com 

Text/Call: 206.850.9766

Hot Stuff Special   $30

Add a little zest to your life with tasty pickled peppers to tuck into a sammy, or drizzle on pizza. Sided with to-grow peppers from Japan (just add water) and finished with a spicy sticker from Mis0happy. Update: last Togarashi To Grow went to Julie, happy to replace with another grow pot or other item of your choice.

Ramen Lover   $40

For the noodle nerd, a hearty helping of favorites including a cotton tea towel and tantalizing tabisocks, garnished with a Ramen Girl pin from local artist Stasia Burrington.

Hawaii Plate   $40

Go loco moco for island-style treats. Brownie Mochi Mix (also available in regular) and fun-for-the-family Hanafuda Japanese card game, topped with a delicious Hawaii grindz decal.  

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub   $40

Wash away your cares with heavenly scented soap, lathered up with our delightful silicone Korean fish scrubbie. You’ll feel squeaky clean, but not too crispy with a side of creamy Japanese hand treatment. Update: Thanks to popularity, travel-size tubes have now been replaced with full-size tubes.

Little Birds   $25

Serve up quiet entertainment from morning ’til night with two board books from local librarian turned author Toni Yuly. Tossed with a silicone duck scrubbie for good, clean fun. Update: Last two books going home with Jiawen!

Ahhhh Spa   $35

Savor self-care with our signature soy-wax candle (Momo x Lulumière) in a reusable Japanese teacup, sided with a fragrant bath fizzy and soothing Korean beauty mask. Update: One Sweet Pea & Clover fizzy left, new shipment of Sea Salt & Lavender arriving soon!

Chai Time   $35

Tea time is ‘me’ time, with a perfectly spiced cup of chai sipped out of a charming cup, both locally sourced. Jaipur Avenue box holds 15 packets; other Bowl Maker animal designs also available. Update: this spoon now belongs to Grace as she purchased this particular package. Other spoons still available, let us choose for you! Another update: Variety pack and koi cup are sold out, Original Masala and other cute cups still available. 

Scrunchie Donuts   $25

Choose two of your favorite flavors of this kawaii accessory made by Seattle’s own Morning Siren. Crafted of scrap fabric, it’s an eco-chic way to perk up your pony. Substitute Japanese socks for a Scrunchie at no extra charge. Apricot, Mustard, Blueberry or Butterscotch. Update: Mustard went to Chloe, Blueberry to Victoria and Butterscotch already claimed, too. If your heart is set on a scrunchie, contact @MorningSiren on IG, I’ll bet Kaitlin can round up another!

Kids Combo   $30

A medley of snack-sized goodies including a Kidrobot Savory & Sweet surprise keychain, meditating animal blind box, Italian wood racecar, cupcake spinner pen and Panda zip-lock bags for nibbles. Update: Meditating animals currently sold out, should we order more? Weigh in!

Cat Mama’s Delight   $30

Crazy cat ladies, rejoice! This one’s for you. Two reusable nylon snack bags (carry those kitty treats) and a locally foraged Space Kitty pin from Stasia Burrington, accompanied by a yummy cat pen. Update: Donut cat pen currently sold out.

Sunday Grace

Pandemic

What if you thought of it
as the Jews consider the Sabbath —
the most sacred of times?
Cease from travel.
Cease from buying and selling.
Give up, just for now,
on trying to make the world
different than it is.
Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life.
Center down. 

And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.
(You could hardly deny it now.)
Know that our lives
are in one another’s hands.
(Surely, that has come clear.)
Do not reach out your hands.
Reach out your heart.
Reach out your words.
Reach out all the tendrils
of compassion that move, invisibly,
where we cannot touch.

Promise this world your love — 
for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
so long as we all shall live.

- Lynn Ungar 3/11/20