Raju Thakrar's thought-provoking article July 30, "Waribashi (disposable chopsticks): Waste on a gluttonous scale," prompted me to relate my own handling of a chopstick obsession. I have long carried in my trouser pocket a pair of the most wonderful high-tech hashi I have yet seen. Manufactured of teak and titanium, they break down into two pieces each and slip into a fitted case, making them quite easy to carry. They were originally intended for backpacking and sold by a well-known outfitter in Washington state.
This custom has precedent in the Japanese samurais' frequent habit of carrying hashi attached to their wakizashi, and in the many elegant antique hashi cases still extant. I am surprised to learn that this is a hip-and-trendy idea to modern Japanese, considering its history.
What a wonderful way to bring a little personality and familiarity to a meal cooked by a stranger! I am surprised that the restaurateur mentioned in the article hadn't considered the profit of offering my-hashi (personal chopsticks) to patrons.
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