ami

It took over a month of careful planning and plenty of help from family and friends. On February 22, I left snowy Colorado to visit Brasil. The plan was to surprise Raquel and ask her to marry me. It was an exciting adventure that took me through five different airports (including Venezuela where I was held up by the military police) and then finally 104℉ Rio de Janeiro 24 hours later. Had a brief talk with my future family in law, ate the most amazing feijoada and then sat quietly in Raquel’s room before she walked in the door for our “planned” video chat. Everything worked out beautifully for what became the greatest day of my life. What followed was two amazing days in Rio meeting with family, enjoying delicious food and taking in the scenery. Click the gallery above for a closer look

Went back to Yoyogi this weekend to take a lesson in takoyaki (Japanese style octopus balls) from takoyaki master and good friend Shota. We all tried some interesting combinations with cheese, mochi, kimchi and various other ingredients. All were equally delicious and had a great time. For desert we wished Yuki happy birthday with bavarian cream cake. Check out the pics above to see some weird takoyaki variations.

Had yakiniku tonight in Yoyogi at delicious but oddly named Gut’s Soul. Yakiniku is Japan’s answer to Korean BBQ and consists of various pieces meat or vegetables usually marinated and cooked using a small grill within the table. Check out the gallery above for a peek into Gut’s Soul.

vimeo - Conveyor Belt Sushi

Taken in Akihabara’s Yodabashi Camera this weekend. Yodabashi is one of the world’s largest electronic stores and on the top floor is several restaurants. Conveyor belt sushi is a cheap, delicious and easy way to grab a meal in Japan.

vimeo - Okonomiyaki

vimeo - Making Soba Noodles

Videos of two favorite Japanese dishes. Okonomiyaki is a pancake like pizza that can include various toppings and styles. Practically every region has its own recipe.  Second video is a local soba (Japanese style noodles) shop passed while walking around Kamakura. The process involves thinly spreading a large piece of buckwheat dough, folding it and then chopping it into small noodle sections.