Alyssa Mikiko DiPasquale, 37

Owner/Operator, The Koji Club, Boston

A Taste for Saké

A certified Advanced Saké Professional and all-out saké lover, DiPasquale dreamed of opening the first bar in Boston dedicated exclusively to the rice-based beverage. But just as plans came together, the pandemic hit. She decided to embrace it: DiPasquale reframed her idea and launched The Koji Club, a virtual saké bar concept and educational platform, instead.

Starting in June 2020, she offered themed saké tastings via Zoom, logging on each week to taste through a curated selection of bottles alongside club participants. In doing so, she built a community of “saké enthusiasts,” and helped to reframe the drink as something for everyday enjoyment. Up next? A brick-and-mortar version is at long last slated to open this fall.

Instagram: @alyssamikiko; @the.koji.club