Japan has a long history of assimilating things from other cultures. From religion, to language, to technology, they cherry pick the most useful and culturally acceptable bits, rework these bits within their existing culture, and create something uniquely Japanese. Whether this is good or bad is a discussion for another time. But the process does create some very unique things – especially when it comes to food.
With the introduction of McDonalds in 1971 Japan took its first step on the path to becoming a fast food nation – at least in the Western view of things. Japan has always had a taste for food stalls, deep fried dishes, and convenient food. But McDonalds opened the door for Pizza Hut, Domino’s, and Burger King and many more. Taco Bell even tried to conquer the Land of the Rising Sun. It failed initially, but they are back for a second round as Japanese people discover they really like Mexican style food. But Japan didn't just adopt these restaurants, keeping their Western style menu intact. Instead they took one look at the dishes, kept the ones they liked, added soy sauce here, nori there, and corn on everything to create original Japanese food.
When you step up to the counter at McDonalds in Japan you can get a Big Mac and fries. Or you could try the teriyaki burger. You can wash it down all down with melon soda or Calpis. Around Halloween you can dare yourself to try a black burger from McDonalds or Burger King. Everyone gets in on the holiday themed fun in Japan. If pizza is more your thing, Pizza Hut offers pizza with tuna, seaweed, and many more combinations that only people in Japan can really appreciate. Or try Domino's crab gratin, garlic shrimp, or the charcoal grilled chiki-teri with onions, spinach, corn, teriyaki chicken, and mayo.
While many of these sound terrifying, they are actually quite good. When Japan does something, they tend to do it right. And Japanizing food is no different. Crepes and confectionaries have reached new heights of flavor and beauty. While Baskin Robbins still offers thirty one flavors, many of them include green tea, red beans, and other Japanese favorites. Like the world of Toriko, our world really is in a gourmet age where people quest for yet unknown flavors. These flavors are being realized in Japan.
When you step up to the counter at McDonalds in Japan you can get a Big Mac and fries. Or you could try the teriyaki burger. You can wash it down all down with melon soda or Calpis. Around Halloween you can dare yourself to try a black burger from McDonalds or Burger King. Everyone gets in on the holiday themed fun in Japan. If pizza is more your thing, Pizza Hut offers pizza with tuna, seaweed, and many more combinations that only people in Japan can really appreciate. Or try Domino's crab gratin, garlic shrimp, or the charcoal grilled chiki-teri with onions, spinach, corn, teriyaki chicken, and mayo.
While many of these sound terrifying, they are actually quite good. When Japan does something, they tend to do it right. And Japanizing food is no different. Crepes and confectionaries have reached new heights of flavor and beauty. While Baskin Robbins still offers thirty one flavors, many of them include green tea, red beans, and other Japanese favorites. Like the world of Toriko, our world really is in a gourmet age where people quest for yet unknown flavors. These flavors are being realized in Japan.
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