Namiko Hirasawa Chen has a vast collection of hashi okis, or chopstick rests, reflecting her culinary journey and family heritage. Collected over nearly 30 years, these miniature items come in various shapes, including vegetables, fish, and flowers, and are significant for Japan's dining culture. Chen emphasizes their affordability, often priced around $10 in the U.S., which makes them accessible to hosts looking to elevate their tablescaping without substantial investment. Her family's tradition of collecting hashi okis adds a personal touch to her extensive cooking website, JustOneCookbook.
I've liked miniature hashi okis since my childhood. I've been collecting them since college and my mom has a beautiful collection.
Hashi okis are an unsung yet essential supporting player in Japanese tablescaping, and an easy, affordable, and meaningful way for hosts to elevate their dining tables.
I think it's one of the most inexpensive investments out of all of the tableware that people can make.
Hashi okis are remarkably affordable and approachable, with many priced around $10 in the United States - and even less in Japan.
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