On March 9, 2025, TBS's popular culinary program, Bescon Gourmet, showcased the celebrated eel restaurant, Izuhei, located just five minutes from Ueno Station. With over 300 years of history dating back to the mid-Edo period, Izuhei has become synonymous with exquisite eel dishes, captivating both local diners and tourists alike.
The show featured renowned guests Suzuki Ami and Antique Shibata, who became the culinary explorers for the day. Their adventure took them through the vibrant streets of Ueno and neighboring 浅草 (asakusa), famous for its rich heritage and gastronomic delights. During their excursion, they encountered beloved gourmet options cherished by many, including legendary comedians like Beat Takeshi.
Among the standout dishes highlighted was the restaurant's signature offering, the '殿重' (Donju), a luxurious double-layered eel dish. Guests were treated to the masterpiece of eel sourced from the premium Ikko region, prepared by skilled artisans who pride themselves on their cooking techniques.
What truly sets Izuhei apart is its carefully crafted spicy sauce made solely from sake and mirin, eschewing sugar entirely. This unique flavor profile has earned the dish acclaim from culinary enthusiasts and nobility alike, including local luminaries such as the late Tachikawa Danshi, who also adored this time-honored establishment.
The segment featured Shibata and Suzuki immersing themselves not only in the gourmet eel but also indulging in the delightful experience of fresh beer served alongside their meals. The show captures their genuine reactions, showcasing the gastronomical thrill of savoring Izuhei’s offerings.
Aside from the cultural and gastronomic exploration, the program highlighted the restaurant's ability to cater to special occasions. Whether it’s for celebrations, memorials, or business receptions, Izuhei offers private rooms, adding to its appeal as the ideal venue for gatherings of friends, families, or colleagues.
Throughout the program, the presenters highlighted other local eateries, including retro diners serving classics like フワトロ広島お好み焼き (fluffy Hiroshima okonomiyaki) from くるみ and the highly popular ナポリタン (Neapolitan spaghetti) offered at various spots. Viewers could almost taste the vibrant flavors of Ueno’s culinary scene stirring excitement across the screen.
Whether it was the tender sweetness of the eel or the delightful company of the guests, the show painted a perfect picture of Ueno's rich food culture. It served as both a tribute to time-honored traditions and as modern interpretations of classic dishes.
All this excitement doesn't just wrap up with enhancing taste buds but caters to the visual appetite as well. Captivated diners often snapped pictures against the restaurant’s elegantly crafted interior, filled with traditional Japanese decor, setting the mood for more than just dining.
With food selections ranging from classic dishes to innovative culinary creations, Izuhei continues to engage its patrons, contributing to the food legacy of Tokyo. Social media is buzzing with posts showcasing delectable eels and ambiance, inviting everyone to experience the unyielding charm of this historical gem.
Since its inception over three centuries ago, Izuhei has existed within the changing fabric of Tokyo, perpetuating culinary excellence and preserving its unique history. Visitors are not only treated to delicious meals but also to tales of resilience and cultural significance. It’s these stories and flavors blended together which create memorable dining experiences, making places like Izuhei stand the test of time.
To learn more about newly featured eateries, viewers were encouraged to visit the show's official website and accounts on social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube.
For food lovers and history enthusiasts alike, what more could one ask for from such storied flavors alive within the backdrop of Tokyo’s alluring streets? Tune your hearts and appetites, as Bescon Gourmet continues to bring forth the culinary treasures awaiting discovery.