Ginza Natsuno Chopsticks Case Study: Sushi Bar Maumi

Sushi Bar Maumi

For over 30 years, Sushi Bar Maumi has been offering “authentic” sushi 8,000 km away from Japan, in Canada.

Not only are the ingredients carefully selected, but the tools are also treated with care, allowing customers to enjoy a sake flight paired with the meticulously chosen dishes.

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Natsuno: Today, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Maumi of the renowned sushi restaurant “Sushi Bar Maumi” in Vancouver, Canada. While we couldn’t visit in person due to the location, we’re delighted to introduce him.

Natsuno: Thank you very much for taking the time to correspond with us via email, despite the 13-hour time difference between Canada and Japan. We appreciate your time today.

Maumi: Thank you very much. I’m looking forward to our conversation.

Natsuno: Although we haven’t been able to visit your restaurant yet, when did you open it?

Maumi: We opened on May 16, 2014, so this year marks the 11th anniversary of the restaurant.

Natsuno: What led you to open a sushi restaurant in Vancouver? Could you share a brief overview?

Maumi: I immigrated to Canada in my 20s and have been working as a sushi chef for 33 years now. After gaining extensive experience, I became independent 10 years ago.

Natsuno: I see! When did you start using Natsuno chopsticks?

Maumi: We’ve been using them for about two years now, providing them for our customers.

Natsuno: Thank you! Actually, there’s a story behind these chopsticks. At the time, it was quite difficult to find stylish chopsticks with a fine tip, so we worked with a chopstick workshop to create an original design, which eventually became a product.

Maumi: I didn’t know that. I had been searching for fine-tipped, dishwasher-safe chopsticks for a long time, so I was thrilled when I found them.

Natsuno: As a chopstick shop, I hesitate to ask, but how many of your international customers use chopsticks when eating sushi?

Maumi: About 70% of our customers use chopsticks. Those who are accustomed to eating sushi often use their hands. Many Asian customers tend to use chopsticks.

Natsuno: I’m surprised to hear that so many people use chopsticks. Are there any notable differences between your Canadian and Japanese customers?

Maumi: One difference is the way they place chopsticks; many people in Canada place them vertically along with the chopstick rest during meals. There are often surprising differences in customs, but it’s always a pleasure when customers who appreciate and understand Japanese food culture visit us. While we strive daily to serve delicious sushi, we also make an effort to communicate and share Japanese food culture with our customers.

Natsuno: Now that you mention it, it’s interesting to see how chopstick customs differ. Are there any other things you pay attention to besides chopsticks?

Maumi: Japan has many beautiful chopsticks, tableware, and sake cups, so I’d like to continue introducing them in the future.

Natsuno: If there’s anything we can help with, don’t hesitate to reach out, no matter the time difference! By the way, you mentioned a “sake flight” earlier—what does that refer to?

Maumi: A sake flight is a way to introduce people who don’t usually drink sake to its flavors and qualities, hoping they’ll come to enjoy it. It’s like a tasting experience where customers can sample small amounts of various types and discover new flavors.

Natsuno: That’s a great way to introduce Japanese sake! Do your local customers ever ask about the chopsticks?

Maumi: They often ask where they can get such beautiful chopsticks and if they’re from Japan. Some customers have even visited Natsuno.

Natsuno: We’re honored that you introduce our chopsticks to your customers. We also offer international shipping, so please feel free to use our services.

Sushi Bar Maumi
For over 30 years, Sushi Bar Maumi has been offering “authentic” sushi 8,000 km away from Japan, in Canada.

Not only are the ingredients carefully selected, but the tools are also treated with care, allowing customers to enjoy a sake flight paired with the meticulously chosen dishes.

1668 Robson Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6G1C7
<<Dine in>>
6 days a week except Thursday
Only 1 seating: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
(604) 609-2286

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Thank you for using Natsuno chopsticks in a place as far away as Canada. We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the refined atmosphere and carefully selected materials of your establishment.