On September 11, 2024, a special showcase of Sugimoto Shiitake’s forest-grown mushrooms was held at Sen Restaurant, a Japanese dining establishment in Long Island, New York. Following the success of last year’s event, RESOBOX once again supported the planning and execution of this delicious experience, bringing the rich flavors of Takachiho-grown dried shiitake mushrooms to New York’s discerning food enthusiasts.

A Luxurious Shiitake-Centered Menu

The talented chefs at Sen Restaurant curated an exclusive menu featuring Sugimoto Shiitake’s log-grown dried shiitake mushrooms from Miyazaki Prefecture. The dishes highlighted the umami-rich flavors of shiitake in creative culinary presentations. Some of the standout menu items included:

• UMAMI Ramen: A specialty dish with noodles infused with shiitake powder.
• Salmon Poke Bowl: Silver salmon aged with shiitake powder and smoked with cherry wood.
• Shiitake Dumplings: Crispy dumplings filled with shiitake mushrooms and chicken.
• American Wagyu: A luxurious dish seasoned with shiitake powder and shiitake butter.
• Shiitake Burger: A black bean and shiitake patty topped with shiitake tomato jam.
• Crispy Shrimp Chips: Made with shrimp purée and shiitake powder for a smoky crunch.
• Shiitake Empanadas: Shiitake powder-infused dough filled with ground beef and rehydrated dried shiitake mushrooms.

To complement the meal, shiitake-themed cocktails were also served, including intriguing creations like the Shiitake Margarita and the Miyazaki Mai Tai, delighting guests with their innovative twists.

A Deeper Appreciation for Shiitake Mushrooms

The event featured heartfelt speeches by Sugimoto Shiitake President Kazuhiro Sugimoto and Sen Restaurant owner Ryunosuke Jesse Matsuoka. They shared insights into the traditional log-growing process of shiitake mushrooms and the secret to their exceptional umami flavor, offering guests a deeper appreciation for this incredible ingredient.

To close the evening, exciting plans for next year’s event were revealed. Sugimoto and Matsuoka announced their vision for a luxurious culinary experience pairing fresh seafood caught off the coast of Long Island with shiitake mushrooms, leaving guests eagerly anticipating what’s to come.

This event not only expanded the audience’s awareness of the many things that can be made with dried shiitake mushrooms, but also reaffirmed the global appeal of Japanese ingredients. RESOBOX remains committed to promoting Japan’s exceptional food culture worldwide. For inquiries about Sugimoto Shiitake’s products or future events, please don’t hesitate to contact us.