Pasta Masterpiece | The Napolitan Spaghetti Replica Workshop

In celebration of National Pasta Month this October, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles presents a series of hands-on workshops for guests to create their very own Napolitan spaghetti replica! Spaghetti is one of the classic types of shokuhin sampuru (food replicas) which have become an iconic part of Japanese culture, as explored in our current exhibition “Looks Delicious!”. This related workshop will be a fun and educational opportunity for art, food, and culture-lovers of all ages to learn about this fascinating craft and make their own sampuru art object to take home and treasure.

Shokuhin sampuru began to appear in early 20th century Japan as dining culture transformed and Western foods became more prevalent. Food models served as an important way for curious customers to visualize unfamiliar new dishes, often as lavish displays in the storefront show-windows of restaurants and cafes. Over time, food replicas evolved from a simple visual marketing tool to an intricate and detailed craft that blends artistry and innovation.

In these hands-on workshops, participants will assemble their own food replica of Napolitan spaghetti, a beloved Japanese yōshoku, or Western-style, dish that has established itself as a staple Japanese comfort food. Although the exact origins of this Japanese twist on tomato sauce pasta remain unknown, it was created using American ingredients that were introduced to Japan after World War II. This noodle dish has maintained its place as a popular menu item at (Japanese cafes) throughout the country and often appears as a food replica in display windows.

Two workshops will be held on Tuesday, October 14, and Tuesday, October 28. Each session features the same content, led remotely from Japan by expert instructor Kaori Satō, General Manager of Ganso Shokuhin Sampuru-Ya, with on-site support from the event team. Participants will discover techniques, tips, and tricks for creating food replicas while assembling their own model. At the end, guests can take home their realistic, one-of-a-kind creation — complete with a floating fork!

Workshops are open to guests ages 10 and up. Parental or guardian supervision is recommended for those under 14.

Program Schedule

*Content will be the same for both October 14 and October 28.

*Subject to change

7:00 PM –7:15 PM | Napolitan Spaghetti Introduction

7:15 PM – 8:30 PM | Workshop

8:30 PM – 8:45 PM | Q&A

Photo credit ©IWASAKI Co., Ltd.

Looks Delicious! | Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture is the first U.S. exhibition dedicated to shokuhin sampuru, Japan’s astonishingly realistic food replicas. Found in restaurant windows across the country, these handcrafted models are so lifelike they’re often mistaken for the real thing. Originating in the early 20th century, food replicas were first made from wax to showcase unfamiliar dishes in department store restaurants. Today, they’re crafted from durable resins and have become a beloved part of Japanese dining culture, also appearing as novelty items like keychains and phone cases. Visitors can explore seven themed areas, learn about the history and craftsmanship of food replicas, and even create their own bentō to photograph and share.

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