Two years ago, I bought a cookbook by the chef of Restaurant Omiya in Asakusa, Tokyo. It soon occurred to me that if all I wanted was to eat the chef’s cooking, it would have been faster to just go to the restaurant.

So why buy the book? Because I imagined making the same Japanese Hamburg steak (or Hambagu) myself at home and seeing my children enjoy it. I realized that I bought the book not for the meal, but for the experience of cooking the meal for my family at home.

My previous cookbook experience laid the foundation for BALMUDA The Toaster, with a focus on “experiences over things”. Believe me, this toaster sees heavy use at my house too. Because the toast it makes is so delicious, I started making bacon and eggs in a cast-iron frying pan to go with it. This, in turn, made breakfast a more enjoyable experience than ever. It was only natural that I’d eventually start wishing for perfectly brewed coffee, as well.

One day, I decided I wanted to master the art of pour-over coffee. After my first few practice sessions, I was sure of one thing: existing kettles (traditional or electric) were difficult to use. I wondered what sort of nozzle and handle would provide the best pouring experience? After countless prototypes and discussions with baristas, BALMUDA The Kettle took on its current form. Brewing pour-over coffee is now a soothing ritual in itself.

The kettle is also ideal for more casual occasions when boiling water is needed -- from pots of tea to instant noodles. Whether in the kitchen or at the dining table, BALMUDA The Kettle delivers a natural and enjoyable experience.