About “ON THE UMAMI”

At ON THE UMAMI, we place special emphasis on the gentle, lingering sensation of umami — a warm, subtle flavor that resonates on the palate. This refined sensitivity to umami is a deeply rooted part of Japanese culture and can be seen as one of its defining characteristics.


 

The essence of umami lies in recognizing its presence and learning how to find it

Our approach to umami is grounded in both scientific research into its components and the refined sensibility of skilled chefs. This dual perspective guides our pursuit of exceptional dashi broths and embodies our philosophy toward flavor. Beyond simply creating delicious food, we aim to offer ideas that elevate everyday living — positioning ON THE UMAMI as a lifestyle brand with umami at its heart, devoted to enriching life and making it more flavorful.

 


 

Knowing UMAMI

Umami is not just a vague sensation — it is a scientifically defined taste, now recognized as the fifth basic taste alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It was first identified by a Japanese scientist in kelp-based dashi broth, and subsequent research confirmed that our tongues have specific receptors for detecting umami.

The term umami has since been adopted globally, and the Japanese ability to sense and appreciate its subtlety has drawn worldwide attention.

Umami is primarily composed of two types of naturally occurring compounds:

  • Amino acids, such as glutamate

  • Nucleotides, such as inosinate and guanylate

When combined, these compounds produce a synergistic effect, dramatically enhancing the taste experience. Moreover, culinary techniques like drying, fermenting, and aging help reduce water content and activate enzymes — processes that naturally amplify umami. This is why ingredients like tomatoes and cheese, rich in umami, have long been treasured around the world, even before the concept of umami was scientifically established.

 

 

Enrich and make life delicious

Bringing out the best in each ingredient, refining its quality, and recognizing its inherent umami not only improves the taste of food — it also helps us discover a deeper appreciation for quality in all aspects of life. At ON THE UMAMI, we believe this awareness enriches our everyday experiences and makes life more delicious.