log 78: japan

simplicity

Returning to Tokyo after 5 years is such a blessing. Being away from Asia has changed me in a way that I can’t understand. Although I never grew up in Japan, I visited a lot as a child to learn the customs and culture. Going from an Eastern to a Western civilization and adjusting my way of living has been difficult. Coming back to the place where I spent my childhood vacations has been a real breath of fresh air. Not to mention, eating real Asian food has made me so incredibly happy. The way Japanese people use ingredients is so refined. Similar to French cuisine, the preparation of food has a certain art to it. The ingredients are respected. The first meal I had here was an incredible ramen with a clear sansho ramen broth. I’ve never had anything like it. In a restaurant with only 10 seats, this ramen master has created a bowl of noodles that hit every one of my spots. A phenomenally simple bowl of ramen that had been developed and refined for years. I’ll be taking a lot of notes on the food I eat here. It’s a great opportunity to observe and apply to my cooking. Not to mention, eat a lot of good food.