would just like to add that Alinea is probably one of the best restaurants in the world, but I suspect not super special if you're not a food nerd. I would dare say they are more skilled than anything you can find in Tokyo, and certainly different enough to be something new (for pretty much everyone, they're very inventive/innovative)

I suppose it might be a bit late though. if so; I'd love to hear what you/they thought about Alinea.

all I know about the gift part is that as AnakChan says, they love fine liquor... not much help there, sorry!

Hey Tari,

I know this visit has long since come and gone, but I felt I should weigh in for the next time it comes around.  I'm currently working with the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, and I frequently serve as a control officer, meaning I handle gifts, restaurants, transportation, etc.  China is not Japan, at all, but I think some of my experience is more global than local.

First off, if you're going to be dining with them, choose somewhere you can eat the kinds of things they will be eating.  I.E. don't get a salad at a steakhouse, don't order water at sushi, etc.  If that's impossible, it would be better to schedule the evening for them but have someone else actually take them.  The disconnect between  what you're asking them to eat and what you're eating might make them uncomfortable, and your necessary explanation wouldn't help.  It's clear to me that your intention is to be as gracious and accommodating as possible, but it could easily be misinterpreted.

Assuming you find a kosher steakhouse, though, that's a great choice.  Those places have excellent service, and are quintissentially American.  Japanese people are stereotypically known for being assholes, and it seems like the ones you entertain are no exception.  That's not a very diplomatic thing to say, but it's the truth.

The baseball was a great gift, if they didn't receive it well that's on them.  Bourbon or Rye whiskey is also a great gift.  If the gifts are intended to be personal (rather than for display at the office) it's a good idea to get them something they can give their kids, so they won't have to find something at the airport.  Anything with a little luxury to it.

Past that, just keep in mind that Japan has a more formal culture than our own.  Ritual and ceremony have a greater importance than familiarity and comfort, so it's helpful to make a show of things.  Present gifts with people around, wrap things carefully, have things timed well -- all that will help them understand how you value their partnership.

I'm pretty sure the Braun baseballs we gave them last year have become retroactively insulting since the PED scandal.

Not even kidding. Every time I heard about that steroid scandal, I kept thinking about the poor Japanese businessmen with the Ryan Braun baseballs that you gave them. Your cultural miscues have touched us all.

Thanks for your input, that's what we ended up doing.  I'll keep jazz in mind for the future, both Chicago and Milwaukee have decent scenes.