Kenji Nakamura
Contributing Editor, Drinks
As the Contributing Editor for Drinks at Tastes Good Magazine, Kenji Nakamura explores the diverse worlds of spirits, cocktails, sake, and shochu. His work focuses on demystifying complex fermentation and distillation processes, making the nuances of bar culture accessible to all readers. By diving into cocktail history and modern drink trends, he highlights the unique stories and traditions behind every glass.
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Latest Articles
New Jersey Governor Signs Permanent To-Go Alcohol Law
On August 28th, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed legislation making the sale of alcoholic beverages 'to go' a permanent fixture, a significant development for the state's hospitality sector.
Aug 29, 2026 · 3 min read
To-go cocktails are here to stay, permanently reshaping California's bar scene.
During the pandemic, one San Francisco bar reported 40% of its weekly revenue came from bottled Negronis sold through a takeout window, a practice now permanently enshrined in California law.
Aug 28, 2026 · 3 min read
Americans' alcohol consumption stays at a record low 54%
For the second consecutive year, 54% of Americans report consuming alcohol, a record-low figure, according to Gallup News .
Aug 21, 2026 · 3 min read
How to Design a Successful Restaurant Cocktail Program
A $30 bottle of vodka, containing approximately 25.
Aug 20, 2026 · 3 min read
What Is a Cocktail and Why Does Its Origin Still Matter?
Before 'cocktail' became a global shorthand for mixed drinks, its name might have been a mispronunciation of a French eggcup, a reference to barrel dregs, or even a term for a docked horse's tail.
Aug 14, 2026 · 3 min read
Marella Cruises to expand zero-alcohol menu across fleet by 2026
Marella Cruises will offer 18 new alcohol-free cocktails and six 0% ABV spirits across its fleet, with full availability by August 2026.
Aug 10, 2026 · 2 min read
Classic Cocktails Resurge, Re-evaluating Pricey Modern Mixology
At a recent gathering in Macau, top bartenders from six major cities debated "The Death or Rebirth of the Classic Cocktail," ultimately agreeing that foundational drinks are paramount, even as some ex
Aug 9, 2026 · 4 min read
Conchy Joe's Jensen Beach Elevates Local Seafood Scene
After 35 years as a local staple, Conchy Joe's Jensen Beach, once known for its reliable but unremarkable fare, has quietly undergone a culinary revolution.
Jul 20, 2026 · 3 min read
Chain Restaurant Margaritas: Price, Quality, and Value
A 'Best Fridays Margarita' at TGI Fridays costs $16.
Jul 19, 2026 · 4 min read
Why Gen Z Is Choosing Non-Alcoholic & Low-ABV Drinks At Bars
At Twelvemonth, patrons opt for a zero-proof beverage pairing that commands a $40 price point, a figure typically associated with fine wine pairings.
Jul 8, 2026 · 3 min read
US Economy Shows Resilience Amidst Global Headwinds
US corporations are investing so heavily at home that capital expenditure now accounts for 13.
Jul 7, 2026 · 3 min read
Top 8 Atlanta Cocktail Bars With Unique Offerings and Experiences
At Hartsfield Jackson's Concourse E, One Flew South, an airport bar, has garnered two James Beard Award nominations.
Jul 5, 2026 · 4 min read
Amy Morton Unveils 1898 Speakeasy Beer Bar
In Highland Park, renowned restaurateur Amy Morton has unveiled 1898, a new 'hidden' speakeasy.
Jun 26, 2026 · 2 min read
Amazon Prime Day 2026 Kitchen Deals Vanish Friday, June 26
Hundreds of dollars off a Breville espresso machine are among the kitchen deals vanishing tonight as Amazon Prime Day 2026 concludes, marking the final hours for shoppers to save up to 77% on top bran
Jun 26, 2026 · 2 min read
Amazon Prime Day 2026 Features Kitchen Deals
Amazon Prime Day 2026 kicked off on June 23, weeks ahead of its traditional mid-July slot, offering kitchen deals and up to 65% off select devices.
Jun 25, 2026 · 2 min read
New West Village Seafood Tavern Serves Up Luxurious Caviar Sandwich
A new West Village seafood tavern, Capitaine, introduces a caviar sandwich on Japanese milk bread toast, blending high luxury with an unexpected twist, according to Ny Eater .
Jun 20, 2026 · 2 min read
Oklahoma Black Rodeos show food as love language
For 24 years, the Demery family in Beggs, Oklahoma, has hosted an annual Fourth of July rodeo, establishing it as a vibrant culinary and cultural cornerstone for the Black cowboy community.
Jun 19, 2026 · 2 min read
Top Mezcal Selections Beyond Tequila and Rum
While many associate mezcal with a single smoky flavor, brands like Yola Mezcal achieve their unique profile through an extended six-day natural fermentation—double the typical three days—according to
Jun 18, 2026 · 3 min read
Whip Up Easy Beer Cocktails at Home With These Recipes
Last month, online searches for 'beer cocktail recipes' surged 300% in major metropolitan areas, Google Trends reports, signaling a dramatic shift in home entertaining preferences.
Jun 12, 2026 · 3 min read
Tests Reveal Top Carbon Steel Pans for Professional Chefs
A recent blind test by a leading culinary publication revealed a lesser-known carbon steel pan outperformed a legacy brand, favored by Michelin-starred chefs, in heat retention and natural non-stick p
Jun 12, 2026 · 3 min read