by Danny Yamamoto

   At the end of July the band played for the Asian Caucus at the Democratic National Convention, and we got a chance to eat at Ming Tsai's restaurant, Blue Ginger in Wellesley, MA.  Before dinner Ming invited all of us to his home where we met his wonderful wife Polly and their two energetic young sons.

 
The Gang
 
Ming offered us drinks and prepared a shrimp/gaspacho appetizer which was so good that we all agreed we'd have been happy to eat just that for dinner.  The Tsais made us feel so welcome and comfortable we could have easily stayed, but there were more delights awaiting us that evening.
 
June and Ming
 
 
    Blue Ginger is not a big restaurant nor is it imposingly fancy.  The simple, understated decor is quite comfortable.  It feels good.  We were joined at a large dining table by Marissa and Gary Salvati and actress Tamlyn Tomita.
 
Ming and Dan
 
Our Taiko player Shoji Kameda and Tamlyn
 
Ming, Tamlyn, and Dan
 
    We were all treated to four incredible appetizers.  Here's Dean with my favorite: Sake-Miso marinated Alaskan Butterfish.
 
Here's Kimo with the entree I got as well: Garlic Black Pepper Lobster with Lemongrass Fried Rice.  The best lobster I ever had.
 
We also saw Senator Akaka from Hawaii there that night.
 
Me and my girl, Karen Hamada
 
June and our road manager, John Chung
 
Me and June


 


: Trying New Things

: Happy New Year 2020

: Carrying the Past

: Hollywood Bowl

: Love and The Hard Stuff

: Piano/Keyboard Influences

: Keep Culture Alive

: Asian Pacific Heritage Month

: Feeling Grateful

: This is That

: June Jan Blog

: Mind-Blowing Drummers

: Hawaii State of Mind

: Bishop Museum

: Ahhhhh

: Las Vegas

: More Music Danny Likes

: Magical Night

: In Memory of George Duke and Ricky Lawson

: Music Danny Likes

: Monster Cable

: Asian Caucus DNC

: Seven River

: The Bridge