The Master
Gino-san
Scent-sei
Roku Nana co-founder Gino-san has a nose for good Saké, and is a certified Saké Sommelier from the Saké Sommelier Association (SSA) based in London, UK. Gino-san believes that sincerity and passion is the key to creating genuine connections with guests, building a foundation of loyal returning guests that share the same taste for Saké and cuisine.
With a love for Saké in mind, Gino-san and his fellow founder Steven-san decided to create Roku Nana Washu Bar, boasting the largest variety of boutique Saké available in Malaysia, while also offering gourmet Japanese cuisine to pair with the different Sakés they source from all over Japan with the help of their partner, Kathryn-san. With small quantities but a large variety, Roku Nana allows guests to get ahold of these large selections of rare and unique Saké, sometimes stocking the only bottle of that brand of Saké in the whole of Malaysia.
Gino-san’s philosophy is that sincerity and integrity are the only ways to build genuine and lasting relationships, especially with guests. His respect for Saké and refined sense of smell means recommending the best options for the guests, combined with their meal, and the situation. As long as you have passion, dedication, and never forget responsibilities held, you will find success in whatever you choose. This is the driving force behind the creation of Roku Nana.
Ask The Scent-sei
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We did know that the Malaysia market wasn’t ready for a Saké bar and it was definitely not going to be easy. Steven-san and I had been visiting places that serve Saké to learn and enjoy Saké. But we found that this did not quench our thirst and felt that it is our responsibility to share the historic and rich culture of Japan Nihonshu from what we learn and know. Thanks to the vision, daring and stubbornness of Steven-san, we decided to go back to what we are passionate about, which was Saké.
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We noticed that Saké bars are lacking in Malaysia, and even then most of the time they only feature their own labels. But I dare to tell my guests that I love Saké. I do not want to just operate a Saké bar out of business and profits, we love Saké, it doesn’t matter if competitors carry the brand, as long as it is good Saké, we will carry it.
What matters most, is when a customer comes in, we have all these wonderful selections of different styles and grades of boutique Saké to share with them, to learn and choose from. Some Saké we have, there’s only 3 in Malaysia, or even just 1 in Malaysia.