Union Square | Kato Sake Works Sake 101 with Shinobu Kato

13 E. 13th Street, New York, NY 10003

Join us for a special, hour long Sake 101 and guided tasting of four Sake's from Kato Sake Works, located in Bushwick, Brooklyn.

About Kato Sake Works & Shinobu:

When Shinobu Kato moved from Tokyo to the U.S., he quickly realized something was missing: good local sake. In Tokyo, sake was everywhere- sold at convenience stores, gourmet shops, divey izakayas, and upscale farm-to-table restaurants. In the U.S., however, it was rare, leaving Shinobu without the drink he loved for hosting friends, cooking, and entertaining. Inspired by the craft beer scene and homebrewing, Shinobu decided to try making his own sake. After a successful tasting party with friends, he realized he had something special and began dreaming of a place where people could enjoy locally made sake.  

In 2020, Shinobu opened Kato Sake Works in Bushwick, Brooklyn, a small brewery with just 500 square feet, a tiny koji room, a few fermentation tanks, and a bar with five seats. They served three sake styles on tap: Junmai, Nigori, and Nama. The grand opening was set for April 1st, just as the pandemic forced a citywide lockdown. Despite the challenges, Shinobu and his small- but growing- team kept brewing, determined to brighten tough times, and the community rallied behind the brewery, spreading the word even during lockdowns.  

By 2023, demand outgrew the space, and Kato Sake Works moved to a larger location just 15 minutes away, partially funded by a successful crowdfunding campaign from family, friends, and customers. Today, the brewery offers a welcoming taproom where visitors can enjoy freshly brewed sake, live music, and food pairings, making it a place to celebrate both sake and community.

Join us afterwards at the bar for more wine & sake by the glass! Shinobu and the lead brewer, Joanie Payne will be on chatting up guests with additional sake and flights for purchase.  Join us at the bar for a glass of wine and dinner the day of class and receive 10% off your check.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations may be made for a full refund 48 hours prior to class. Cancellations and transfers cannot be accommodated within 48 hours of your scheduled class time. If you cannot attend class, you may send someone in your place. There are no exceptions to our cancellation policy.

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