An Unforgettable Evening of Yokohama Gourmet and Music
Special Guest: Mika Hino

Join us for a sumptuous celebration of Yokohama's rich culinary traditions with the exquisite harbor city sounds of renowned singer Mika Hino.

Commodore Perry brought not only warships and cannons; on board the infamous Black Ships were the finest representations of western culture carefully assembled to impress and entertain the Japanese officials. Samurai invited to the Commodore's feast experienced fine roasts, foie gras and wines never before seen, much less tasted, to the accompaniment of classical music. Olde Yokohama never looked back, and within a few years it was to become Japan's largest port and gourmet capital.

Executive Chef Paul Dodd creates a culinary tapestry with wonderful anecdotes of how some of Japan's best known "western" dishes came into being, be it the Beef Burgundy Stew brought back by the Imperial Navy from their training in England, and highly "localized" for lack of ingredients, or the exquisite Shrimp Doria, created by the New Grand Hotel's first executive chef Sandy Weil as a showcase for local rice, spinning together Italy's national colors (represented by shrimp, parsley and rice in cream sauce with parmesan cheese) into a national favorite.

Renowned singer and long time Yokohama resident Mika Hino will set the stage for the Yokohama soiree with songs from her recent album celebrating the beautiful port city through the ages. Originally making her debut as an enka singer, Hino immediately sprung to fame with her mega-hit "Hisame" and won her first spot on the Kohaku Year End Song Program. She has subsequently branched out into songwriting, and boasts numerous No.1 hits performed by top artists. Her album, "Yokohama: Fall In Love", a selection of classic songs from Yokohama commemorating the 150th Anniversary of its port opening, was named one of Best 5 albums in the Popular Music category by Music Magazine for 2009.

The price for members and guests is 5,775 yen, and includes a four course dinner. Please reserve at the reception desk, 03-3211-3161, or online http://www.fccj.or.jp/node/5034 (Reservations cancelled less than 24 hours in advance will be charged in full.) Please reserve early to avoid disappointment!

Food & Beverage Committee