The
Oishinbo series debuted in 1983 and has since been
continuously serialized in Big Comic Spirits. Author Tatsu
Kariya and artist Akira Hanasaki won the 32nd Shogakukan Manga Award in
1987 for Oishinbo.
From the book
jacket: As part of the celebrations for its 100th anniversary, the
publishers of the Tozai news have commissioned the creation of the
"Ultimate Menu," a model meal embodying the pinnacle of Japanese
cuisine. This all-important task has been entrusted to journalist
Yamaoka Shiro, an inveterate cynic who possesses zero initiative-- but
also an incredibly refined palate and an encyclopedic knowledge of
food.
Each volume of Oishinbo
follows Yamaoka and his colleagues through another adventure on their
quest for the Ultimate Menu.
Oishinbo
A la Carte: Japanese Cuisine
Story by Tetsu Kariya; Art by Akira Hanasaki; Viz Media,
2009
This volume introduces us to the fundamental
ingredients-- rice, sashimi, green tea, and dashi (cooking stock)-- that
constitute the soul of the Japanese kitchen. In each story we learn
about the proper preparation and presentation of different dishes, as well
as their history and cultural significance; rated "T" for Teen; recommended for ages 13+;
pb $12.99
Oishinbo
A la Carte: Ramen & Gyoza
Story by Tetsu Kariya; Art by Akira Hanasaki; Viz Media,
2009
In this volume, Yamaoka and company inquire into the
"soul of ramen," from the flour used in the noodles to the
chickens used in the broth. And where there's ramen, there's gyoza:
little dumplings made with a variety of fillings and served as a side
dish. Will Yamaoka be able to create an "ultimate" gyoza
before Kaibara creates a "supreme" one? Rated "T" for Teen; recommended for ages 13+;
pb $12.99
Oishinbo:
Sake
Story by Tetsu Kariya; Art by Akira Hanasaki; Viz Media,
2009
For centuries different types of sake have played the
same roles in Japan as wine and beer have in the West, from inexpensive
everyday drink to refined single-batch rarities. Above all, sake has
been enjoyed as an accompaniment to a meal, and after a revelatory moment
one night, Yamaoka decides that drink pairings must be an integral part of
the Ultimate Menu. Rated "T" for Teen; recommended for ages 13+;
pb $12.99
