Renowned chef and travel documentarian Anthony Bourdain remains a culinary beacon for many food lovers, particularly when it comes to his deep admiration for Tokyo’s vibrant food scene. Bourdain boldly declared that if given the choice to eat in only one city for the rest of his life, it would undeniably be Tokyo. His frequent visits—nine times throughout his career—revealed a city he described as “deliciously unknowable,” a characteristic that continuously drew him back.
In the travels captured in his acclaimed series “Parts Unknown,” Bourdain explored a vast array of Tokyo’s social landscapes, ranging from lively dance clubs to upscale martini bars and underground death metal shows. His culinary experiences were equally diverse, indulging in street foods and convenient snacks that fueled his cravings when he was away. Notably, Bourdain had a particular fondness for dining at celebrated Omakase establishments such as Sushi Yasuda, owned by his friend and sushi mentor, Naomichi Yasuda. Bourdain reiterated that true sushi etiquette meant avoiding the common practice of mixing wasabi into soy sauce.
Throughout his time in Tokyo, Bourdain was captivated by the skill and artistry of elite sushi chefs, including the legendary Jiro Ono, whose intimate ten-seat restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, left a lasting impression on him. Bourdain once expressed that he would choose it as the place for his last meal, highlighting the spiritual connection he felt with the culinary arts in Japan. His admiration for Japanese cuisine extended to dishes like uni, soba noodles, and yakitori, with the chef noting the difficulty in choosing favorites amidst such a wide variety.
Bourdain’s connection to Tokyo also thrived through his relationships, notably with food journalist Shinji Nohara, who provided essential guidance on the city’s best eateries. Their professional relationship blossomed back in the early 2000s when Nohara’s insights influenced Bourdain during his first venture to Tokyo, creatively documented in “A Cook’s Tour.”
Tokyo’s culinary scene is a tapestry woven with rich flavors and cultural experiences, providing a wealth of options for those who seek to explore its depths. Bourdain’s legacy lives on in countless kitchens and dining tables, encouraging others to embark on their own gastronomic adventures, discovering and savoring the culinary delights that cities like Tokyo have to offer.