Kama Asa Shoten Opens Its First Store in the US at Brooklyn
Kama Asa Shoten, a time-honored kitchenware retailer founded in 1908, is proud to announce the grand opening of its first store in the United States. Located within the multi-brand complex
50 Norman in Brooklyn, New York, the store will officially open its doors on
April 26, 2025. Focusing on the theme of
Authentic Japanese Kitchenware Store, this opening marks the second international location for the brand, following the success of its Paris store inaugurated in 2018.
Store Details
- - Address: 50 Norman | 38 Norman Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
- - Operating Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- - Product Range: Approximately 135 products including knives, pans, pots, and traditional Japanese kitchen utensils.
The offerings will feature an impressive lineup comprising both traditional and modern Japanese cooking tools, including:
- - Japanese and Western knives
- - Woks and traditional pots
- - Shichirin (Japanese charcoal grill)
- - Fireproof brick stoves
- - Customizable cutting boards and more.
Kama Asa Shoten aims to educate and engage visitors by providing insights into the craftsmanship behind their products. They will also offer maintenance services such as blade sharpening to ensure optimal tool performance.
The Inspiration Behind the Brooklyn Store
Kama Asa Shoten's entry into the Brooklyn market is not arbitrary, but rather a culmination of a rich history of engagement with American culinary communities. Since hosting two successful pop-up events in San Francisco in 2015 and 2018, the brand has observed a growing interest in Japanese kitchenware among local chefs and home cooks alike. During these events, they recognized the strong demand for Japanese kitchen tools and the stories behind them.
In addition, the company's popular flagship store in Kappabashi, Tokyo, has witnessed a significant rise in international visitors, particularly from the United States. This increasing interest affirms the company's belief that now is the perfect time to promote Japanese culinary tools directly in the U.S.
Daisuke Kumazawa, the fourth-generation owner and CEO, emphasized, “We feel a profound responsibility to showcase the beauty and functionality of Japanese kitchenware. This store will not only be a place to sell tools but a venue to communicate the essence and philosophy behind them.” He believes that through authentic Japanese cooking tools, they can share the joy of cooking and the value of quality craftsmanship with a global audience.
The 50 Norman Complex
Located in the creative Greenpoint area of Brooklyn,
50 Norman serves as a lively hub for various brands that highlight Japanese culture. Alongside Kama Asa Shoten, the complex features:
- - HOUSE Brooklyn, a French-Japanese restaurant
- - DASHI OKUME, a specialty shop that honors the traditional craft of dashi (broth)
- - CIBONE Brooklyn, a design gallery and shop that showcases contemporary Japanese design.
As a collective space,
50 Norman aims to create a unique cultural experience, bridging food, design, and lifestyle aspects of Japanese culture. This collaborative environment enhances the appeal of the individual brands while fostering an atmosphere of creativity and shared experiences.
Upcoming Events
In celebration of the Brooklyn store's opening, Kama Asa Shoten is planning a special event in Japan, partnering with BALMUDA, a designer lifestyle company. This event will feature two pop-ups in Tokyo on
May 24 and 25, 2025, where attendees can experience the essence of the Brooklyn store, including a selection of knives and workshops fostering a deeper understanding of Japanese culinary tools.
Kama Asa Shoten’s commitment to innovation while staying rooted in tradition uniquely positions it to captivate an international audience, promoting a deeper appreciation for Japanese cooking culture. With its thoughtful approach, the Brooklyn store is poised to become a distinguished destination for both culinary professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Kama Asa Shoten looks forward to bringing the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to Brooklyn as they embark on this new and exciting chapter.