Working at Fukuoka Now does have perks! For example, earlier this month we were invited to a champagne party at Hotel WITH THE STYLE. A seemingly endless number of bottles of Moet & Chandon champagne, including their vintage white and rose brands, were uncorked. Aaaah… the sound of popping Champagne corks! The highlight of the evening, however, was our chat with Moet & Chandon Winemaker Marc Brevot who was visiting Japan to communicate directly with Japanese bubbly aficionados. While Moet & Chandon is already the market leader here, Marc says that that in itself presents challenges. “We want to be recognized as a producer of the finest wines, not the most popular…” With Christmas and New Year approaching, don’t forget to pick up a bottle or visit Hotel WITH THE STYLE for a glass.

Yah it’s Hot!

Many FN readers will recognize Allen from his Reggae Bar “Xaymaca,” formerly in Fujisaki and now on Oyafuko, and his oishii Jamaican food. After persistent inquiries about his jerk seasoning, Allen decided to bottle his most popular sauces so customers could enjoy them at home. Currently, he offers four varieties (Y840 each): the quintessential “Jerk Rub”- excellent on all meats, not just chicken- Allen’s original “BBQ Sauce”, the mayonnaise based “Special Dip” and finally his fiery hot “Jamaica Allen’s Hot Sauce.” All are available at Xaymaca or online at www.jamaicaallens.com. Buy four bottles and shipping is free!