As bombs fell on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, another threat lurked unseen beneath the waves. In the hours before the attack, the Japanese navy deployed five small, two-man submarines near the entrance to Pearl Harbor, hoping to penetrate the harbor's defenses and inflict additional damage on American warships. In honor of the 85th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, join Visitor Engagement Specialist Joseph Tingley to explore this lesser-known story of that infamous day. Learn about the submarines' missions, the sailors who crewed them, their ultimate fate, and the role these secretive underwater operations played in Japan's broader strategy.

Dinner with a Curator is an evening of dinner and history hosted by The American Sector Restaurant & Bar culinary team and Museum professionals. Guests participate in discussion on a featured topic related to World War II, which is interpreted through the Museum's collection and a theme-inspired three-course dinner paired with beverage specials. Ticket sales end 48 hours prior to the start of the event.

Dinner with a Curator

“The First Shots: Pearl Harbor’s Forgotten Submarines”

December 5, 2026

First

The Silent Approach

Sweet Corn Potage – Japanese Corn Soup with Ginger

Pairing: Yuzu Sake Spritz
Sake, Yuzu, Simple Syrup, Club Soda

Second

The Rising Sun

Miso-Glazed Gulf Fish, Saikyo, Dashi Jasmine Rice, Charred Baby Bok Choy, Shiitake Mushrooms, Ginger-Sake Beurre Blanc

Pairing: King Estate Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley

Third

Midnight in the Pacific

Matcha-Chocolate Mousse, Yuzu Curd, Black Sesame Sablé, Candied Ginger, Mandarin Gel

Pairing: Matcha Moon
Tanqueray Gin, Yuzu, Orange Liqueur, Honey, Prosecco

Nonalcoholic option for all courses: Golden Crane
Yuzu, Ginger Syrup, Honey, Sparkling Water