On March 30, 2025, the popular TBS program "Banana Man's Great Gourmet!!" will air a special three-hour episode featuring Yuki Himura's culinary explorations. This broadcast marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in the show's history that an entire episode will focus solely on Himura's gourmet adventures. The show, which has been captivating audiences for 12 years since its debut in June 2014, is now entering its sixth year as a Golden Regular program.
Hosted by the comedic duo Banana Man, consisting of Osamu Shitara and Yuki Himura, the episode promises to be a feast for the senses. Studio guests for this special include Megumi Iizuka, Haruna Kondo from Harisenbon, and Mizuki Yamashita from Nogizaka46. Their presence adds an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the broadcast, which will begin at 7:00 PM and run until 9:54 PM.
The program's producer shared insights into the upcoming episode, highlighting Himura's journey through some of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, including Futtsu and Tateyama in Chiba Prefecture, the beautiful Miyako Island in Okinawa, Sapporo in Hokkaido, and Ueda in Nagano Prefecture. Viewers can expect to see Himura indulging in an array of local delicacies, as he interacts with locals to discover the best culinary offerings each area has to offer.
In Tateyama, Himura will be sampling a variety of dishes, including a fresh local fish bowl recommended by local fishermen, fluffy hamburgers made from local brand beef at a popular tea shop, and a rich miso ramen featuring a blend of four different types of miso. The episode will also showcase strawberry picking and glamping, adding a unique twist to the gourmet experience.
Miyako Island, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, will feature a standout dish: a simmered pork rib set meal limited to just 30 servings per day. This exclusive meal has garnered attention for its meticulous preparation, which involves simmering the pork ribs for two hours with garlic, green onions, and soy sauce, followed by a day of soaking in cold water to enhance the flavors.
In Sapporo, viewers can look forward to Himura enjoying a massive serving of grilled steak, while in Ueda, he will be tasting thick fish and pork bone soup tsukemen, both of which are sure to impress with their generous portions and rich flavors.
Yamashita, who recently returned from a solo trip to Kyoto just two days before the recording, adds an exciting personal touch to the episode. During the recording, she shared her culinary discoveries from Kyoto, leading to humorous moments that had the studio audience in stitches. Shitara even remarked, "Yarune!" in response to her unique storytelling style, showcasing the chemistry between the guests and hosts.
The episode is set to be a celebration of food, culture, and laughter, with the producer encouraging viewers to anticipate the fun dynamics between Himura and the studio guests. With the combination of gourmet food and engaging personalities, this special episode of "Banana Man's Great Gourmet!!" is not to be missed.
As the show continues to gain popularity, it not only highlights Japan's diverse culinary landscape but also fosters a sense of community by connecting viewers with local cultures through food. The program has become a beloved staple for many, showcasing the joy of discovering new flavors and experiences.
For those interested in the culinary world, this episode promises to be a delightful exploration of Japan's rich gastronomic heritage, making it a perfect watch for food enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
In summary, the March 30th episode of "Banana Man's Great Gourmet!!" is set to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, delicious food, and engaging conversations. With Himura's enthusiastic approach to exploring local delicacies and the studio guests' lively interactions, viewers are sure to be entertained and inspired to embark on their own culinary adventures.