Tuesday, February 2, 2010

The food of Japan























When I think of the food here, it reminds me when my soror Mylayna said that if she comes to visit, she would have to bring an extra suitcase with food. What I got from that is that Japanese food is not her favorite. Coming to Japan, I knew that I would not have a problem because Asian cuisine happens to be my favorite; Chinese, Japanese, Indian and Thai. Love it. Although I enjoy the food, I don't wish to eat it everyday. I'm fortunate that I have access to the military bases which means I can shop at the commissary where American food is plentiful. Also on base, there are several American fast food restaurants (Subway, Popeyes, Burger King, Macaroni Grill, Chili's, Charley's and Pizza Hut). Off base, there is McDonalds, KFC Tony Roma's and Shaky's.

Okinawa food is a bit different from traditional Japanese food. Well traditional in the sense of what we Americans view as Japanese food, sushi, tempura or the restaurants where they cook your meal in front of you with fancy knife tricks. The most popular dish is known as Soba. It was my first introduction to Okinawan food. It is a dish that consists of noodles in a broth that is often accompanied with pork or beef.

One thing that I initially had to get used to, like most Americans is the food portion. I think that many of us can conclude that when we eat Chinese food, after about an hour, you might end up hungry again. Here, the portions are usually small. Many of the restaurants that I have been to offer small dishes to share. Some of the restaurants that I enjoy are the Tuna House, Garlic House and Curry House. Fortunately for Americans though, some of the restaurants do try to cater to our healthy appetites and provide more food than what they are accustomed to. One thing however they don't cater to is our need to enjoy our food in a smoke free environment. I guess this would be my only complaint when it comes to dining here.

The presentation of the food is always exquisite, very appetizing. The time and attention given is clearly evident. It almost makes you not want to dive in. But you must because every bite will likely be a new experience. I'm daring when it comes to food and will try almost anything. I want to experience all there is to offer when it comes to the culture and food of Japan.



3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Love hearing about your experience. The food segment is very interesting. I to would try the difference foods that Japan has to offer. You can eat american food anytime. God Bless

Anonymous said...

Glad To See You Are Eating Good

MSAesq said...

It all looks great Tonya! My only reservation was the cleanliness, as opposed to the tastiness. But these restaurants look very nice. Maybe I don't need that suitcase after all. Sounds like you have plenty of options there.