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In this episode, Sam Rongvi, an American who lived in Japan for over a year, takes us on a flavorful journey through Tokyo's bustling food scene, unraveling the unique aspects of Japanese cuisine, the intricacies of dining culture, and his favorite spots.

- **Introduction: Meeting Sam Rongvi**

  - Sam's relocation to Japan and living in the vibrant neighborhood of Nishi Ogie Kubo, Tokyo.

  - His luck in discovering remarkable local restaurants within walking distance.

  - Drawing a parallel to Frasier's experience of feeling appreciated yet distinctive in a foreign setting.

- **Cultural Nuances in Dining**

  - Contrasts between service cultures in Japan and the U.S., emphasizing the absence of tipping and the respectful way of seeking assistance at restaurants.

  - Anecdotes from traveling in Italy, highlighting cultural differences in service and returns.

- **Tokyo's Gastronomic Marvels**

  - Sam's culinary adventures in Tokyo, exploring diverse eateries, from yakitori joints to sushi bars and patisseries.

  - The high quality and variety of cuisines available, including exceptional French-style bakeries.

- **Insights from Tokyo's Markets**

  - Exploring Tsukiji Market, Japan's renowned fish market, and the array of fresh seafood available.

  - Explaining Chirashi and distinguishing between sashimi and nigiri in Japanese cuisine.

- **Japanese Dining Culture**

  - Shedding light on the Japanese dining experience, from small, intimate eateries to the philosophy of allowing customers to linger without pressure.

- **Traveling Around Japan**

  - Sam's travels beyond Tokyo, sampling regional delicacies like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki in Osaka, and Genghis Khan in Sapporo.

  - Noting regional variations in similar dishes across different cities in Japan.

- **Insights into Japanese Staples**

  - Highlighting essential ingredients in Japanese cooking: miso, mirin, soy, and dashi.

  - Emphasizing the significance of quality ingredients, especially in sushi preparation.

- **Favorite Dining Spots**

  - Sam's cherished restaurants in Japan and Seattle, praising the authenticity, ambiance, and variety of dishes offered.

- **Adaptation during the Pandemic**

  - Kiwami's resilience during challenging times, maintaining quality through sourcing and customer-centric service.

  - Sam's emphasis on maintaining high-quality ingredients despite the challenging circumstances.

- **The Essence of Japanese Cooking**

  - Sam's top three favorite food books, emphasizing a deep understanding of Japanese cuisine and regional nuances.

- **Closing Thoughts and Invitation**

  - Sam's personal connection to Japanese cuisine and his family's influence.

  - A warm invitation to visit Kiwami and experience authentic Japanese cuisine in downtown Kirkland.

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Season2

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