Ep 7. Tokyo

In season 2, episode 7 of Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown, Bourdain takes viewers on a culinary and cultural journey through Tokyo, Japan. As a city that is constantly evolving, Bourdain guides viewers through the traditional and modern aspects of Tokyo's food scene, including everything from sushi and sashimi to izakayas and ramen shops.

Bourdain begins his exploration in Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest fish market in the world. He learns about the various types of fish available and even tries some traditional Japanese breakfast dishes like tamagoyaki and shirasu. From there, he visits a traditional sushi restaurant run by a master sushi chef, Jiro Ono, to try some of the best sushi in the world.

The episode also highlights some lesser known aspects of Tokyo's food culture, including izakayas, which are essentially Japanese pubs that serve a variety of small plates. Bourdain visits a popular izakaya with an iron chef, Yuji Wakiya, and tries a variety of dishes like grilled mackerel, chicken liver, and octopus salad.

Another main focus of the episode is ramen, a staple of Japanese cuisine. Bourdain visits a ramen shop in Tokyo and samples a variety of different types of ramen, from shio to miso. He even learns the proper way to eat ramen in Japan, which involves slurping your noodles loudly to show the chef that you appreciate their cooking.

Outside of the food scene, Bourdain also explores Tokyo's unique culture. He visits a robot restaurant where giant robots put on a performance for customers while they eat, and he even participates in a traditional tea ceremony. Bourdain also speaks with locals about the city's issues with overcrowding and the pressure to conform, which gives viewers a deeper understanding of life in Tokyo.

Overall, Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown season 2, episode 7 is a fascinating exploration of Tokyo's food scene and culture. Bourdain's passion for food and travel, as well as his willingness to immerse himself in new experiences, makes for an engaging and informative episode that leaves viewers craving Japanese cuisine.