Oona Tempest
I got to where I am today by apprenticing; the traditional way to learn a craft, especially in Japan.
WHO WE ARE
MTC Kitchen is operated by New York Mutual Trading, the premier Japanese food, alcohol beverage, and restaurant supply specialist. We hold true in our hearts to uphold genuine Japanese food traditions and explore new ways to provide innovative restaurant supplies and services.
FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
MUTUAL TRADING COMPANY, INC. is a Japanese food importer and distributer founded in 1926 with the corporate principle of "Bringing the Flavors of Japan to the people of the World." We offer a comprehensive array of Japanese products, including traditional items like ramen, and udon, as well as high quality restaurant supplies and professional kitchenware.
We strive to provide safe, quality assured products and excellent customer service to Japanese food trade professionals. We are committed to promoting traditional Washoku culture and introducing innovative products, as well as providing education and training programs, such as chefs training and Sake sommelier certifications. We look forward to working with you to continue acquainting people with the wonders of Japanese food culture, including high quality kitchenware and tableware, and propelling its progress for the next generation of Washoku professionals.
Masotoshi Ohata, President & CEO
AUTHENTIC JAPANESE FOOD DISTRIBUTION
Established in 1926, Mutual Trading Co., Inc. was originally a small co-op organization for centralized purchasing of basic import foods to service the needs of the early Japanese immigrant society in Southern California. We have grown nearly 90 years old now, and command a premiere position among Japanese food service suppliers, as well as fill a key role as "Culinary Ambassador" promoting Japanese foods worldwide. Currently, we import, manufacture, and distribute thousands of Japanese foods, beverages, restaurant equipment, and supplies.
OUR HISTORY
1926
Founded on April 19, 1926
In Los Angeles, California
On April 19, 1926, Mutual Trading Co. Inc. was conceived in Los Angeles by coming together of ten Japanese food store owners. Back then food importing from Japan was called "Takuwan Boeki" or the "Japanese Pickle Trade". Its origin is deeply rooted in the hearts of the early immigrants, yearning for the nostalgic taste of home faraway.
1968
Company Expansion in 1968
In Los Angeles, California
In 1968, Mutual Trading moved to a new warehouse, which boasted 15,000 square feet of storage space. Current CEO Noritoshi Kanai had an ambitious dream of popularizing sushi in the US. The introduction of sushi into the American market was a high risk venture as he was told by everyone, "Americans don't eat raw fish this period".
1970
Opening of Miyako Market in 1970
In Fort Lee, New Jersey
Mutual Trading chose a conservative approach by establishing an antenna shop in the form of a Japanese grocery store. Miyako Market opened its doors in Fort Lee, NJ, where they built a solid customer base.
1972
Start of New York Mutual Trading Inc., 1972
In Paramus, New Jersey
There was a staff of just three to start, but they struggled to build steady clients and to become a trusted Japanese food supplier in the New York area.
1975
Kanai, Inaba, & Harry Wolff Jr Become First Exporters of Beringer Wines to Japan, 1975
Current Chairman Kanai met food sales consultant Harry Wolff Jr, who told him, "Kanai, if you want to succeed in business here in America, you need a good lawyer, a good doctor and good friends". Mutual Trading hired Wolff, who played a vital role in the company's success.
1980
Japanese Food Boom, 1980
In 1977 there were 228 Japanese restaurants in Southern California, 39 of which had sushi bars. In 1980 that number jumped to 373, with 116 of which had sushi bars. On September 1, 1980, Nikkei newspaper reported that the number of Japanese restaurants in New York had reached 200.
1993
Started Japanese Food & Restaurant Show, 1993
In 1990 in Los Angeles, California. In 1993, in New Jersey/New York
Every fall Mutual Trading organizes an annual Japanese Food and Restaurant Show for trade businesses in Los Angeles, Hawaii, Las Vegas, and New York with more than 60 vendors from the U.S. and Japan to highlight new products. We also invite specialists and chefs to conduct seminars and/or cooking demonstrations at the event.
2009
Opened Japanese Culinary Center
April 15, 2009
The Japanese Culinary Center (JCC) opens as NYMTC's Manhattan showroom. A one stop shop for professionals and culinary enthusiasts with an interest in Japanese culinary culture.
IN STORE SHOPPING
Branches & Partners
Our company boasts a robust network, with Group Companies and Strategic Partners strategically positioned across North America, South America, and Hawaii. This extensive reach enhances our ability to serve and collaborate effectively in diverse markets.
LEARN MORE
Manhattan Store
Our showroom is where professionals in the restaurant industry can see our selection without going all the way to New Jersey, but we of course are open to the public and anybody is welcome to shop here!
VISIT OUR STORESTORIES FROM THE CULINARY WORLD
-
Read Now -
-
Douglas Kim
Read MoreI never wanted to get into food or cooking. I actually wanted to go to school for business or become a plastic surgeon.
KNOW AN OUTSTANDING CHEF?
SHARE A CHEF
