Ep 6. Japan with Masa

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown is a travel and food documentary series hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain. In episode 6 of season 8, Bourdain travels to Japan with Chef Masa Takayama to explore the unique food and culture of the country.

The episode begins with Bourdain meeting Masa in Tokyo, where they delve into the city's bustling food scene. They visit a tiny sushi joint, where Masa explains the importance of sourcing the freshest fish and how sushi chefs must serve the perfect piece of sushi every time. They also visit Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in the world, where they witness the daily seafood auction and try some of the market's street food.

Bourdain and Masa then travel to the town of Kanazawa, known for its traditional crafts and regional delicacies. They visit a sake brewery, where Bourdain explains the differences between different types of sake and the importance of drinking it at the right temperature. They also sample some of Kanazawa's famous seafood, including firefly squid and sea urchin.

Next, the duo travels to the Noto Peninsula, a remote region known for its stunning landscapes and fresh seafood. Here, they try abalone, a prized delicacy in Japan, and meet with a local fisherman to learn about his traditional fishing methods. Bourdain also tries his hand at making soba noodles from scratch and visits a local farm to try fresh wasabi, which he declares to be "a whole different thing" from the wasabi most Americans are familiar with.

In the final segment of the episode, Bourdain and Masa visit Osaka, known as the "kitchen of Japan." They explore the city's famous street food scene, trying takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). They also visit a legendary ramen spot, where Bourdain marvels at the precision and expertise of the chefs.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain and Masa discuss the importance of tradition and the changing face of Japanese cuisine. They reflect on the impact of Western influences on Japanese food culture and the need to preserve old techniques and flavors. Bourdain also reflects on the beauty of Japan and its people, stating that "there is a deep sense of order, respect, and quietude that informs everything here."

Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown is a fascinating exploration of Japanese cuisine and culture, guided by the insights and expertise of Chef Masa Takayama. It provides a glimpse into the intricacies of Japanese cuisine, as well as a deeper understanding of the country's traditions and values.