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A Culinary Adventure: Tsukaji's Soba Journey in Kawasaki

In an exciting episode, comedian Tsukaji Takaaki from Drunk Dragon embarks on a culinary adventure in the vibrant city of Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. The journey begins at a stunning 25-story building, resembling a department store, which serves as the Kawasaki City Hall. After being awed by the architecture, Tsukaji heads to the 25th floor to be greeted with breathtaking views of the Kawasaki skyline, Yokohama, and even Tokyo Skytree. The observation deck offers a spectacular panorama, making it an excellent start to his adventure.

Armed with binoculars provided by the show’s director, Tsukaji scans the towering buildings in the Musashi-Kosugi area, humorously questioning how he might find the soba shop from so high up. The thrill of the hunt begins!

After soaking in the view, Tsukaji proceeds to Musashi-Kosugi, home to the beloved soba restaurant, Aji Natori. Celebrating its 17th anniversary, this establishment has become a staple for locals, boasting 17 branches across Kanagawa Prefecture. As Tsukaji approaches, he notices a showcase filled with impressive mock-ups of soba dishes, with the standout being the massive “Fuji Mountain Soba.” Impressively weighing 1 kg and serving approximately four people, its size is astonishing. Will Tsukaji be able to finish this monumental meal? Nearby, a family tackles their own large portions, and the son exclaims how he underestimated the quantity, highlighting the satisfying challenge posed by these sizable dishes.

Opting for the 'Tsuketen'—a regular size order of soba accompanied by freshly fried tempura—Tsukaji can't contain his excitement. The restaurant prides itself on serving tempura immediately after cooking, ensuring it is hot and crispy. Tasting the okra tempura, he describes the experience with enthusiasm: “Crisp, crunchy, and gooey—this freshly fried tempura hits all the right notes!”

Furthermore, the soba noodles are made with love in their own factory, ensuring they are freshly prepared and of top-notch quality. The broth is also meticulously crafted using katsuobushi, so-yaki, and various kombu, resulting in a rich umami flavor that leaves Tsukaji thoroughly satisfied.

As he finishes his meal, Tsukaji jovially states, “I could come here two weeks in a row! Let’s make plans to return here soon!” He leaves the shop wearing a broad smile, clearly delighted by the culinary experience and the friendly atmosphere.

Following his satisfying meal in Kawasaki, Tsukaji heads next to Umeshima in Tokyo, where he will explore a unique soba bowl created by an innovative chef backed by substantial research. Will trends like bacon soba also make a splash? This new chapter promises more delightful surprises as Tsukaji continues his journey through the world of standing soba shops.

Stay tuned for more episodes of Tsukaji's quest to find the best soba experience around Japan! He’s sure to deliver not just great food, but plenty of warmth and humor along the way.