Nakashima An and Kashima Kazuki excitedly embarked on their culinary adventure through Hayama Town, known for its exquisite gourmet offerings, during the latest episode of the popular Japanese show 'Banana Man no Sekkaku Gourmet' aired on December 29, 2024. The hosts engaged with locals, gathering insights on must-try dishes, making for an informative and mouthwatering exploration of this celebrated region.
First up on their gourmet itinerary was 'Tonkatsu Hikonoya', located just a minute's walk from Zushi Station. This hidden gem has become famous for its tender pork cutlet, praised for its juiciness and softness. The restaurant's owner, who honed his skills at prestigious Japanese restaurants over 20 years, has mastered the art of frying perfection. "The pork cutlet here is juicy and soft, highly recommended by the locals!" echoed throughout the segment, as viewers saw the hosts savoring every bite.
Next, Nakashima and Kashima ventured to 'Pizzeria Cana', recognized for its authentic stone-baked pizzas. This restaurant, managed by chef Kenjiro, who trained for three and-a-half years in Italy, focuses heavily on incorporating local produce. "This pizza is made using fresh ingredients sourced locally; it’s something you can’t miss!" Nakashima noted, as they described the elaborate pizza preparation involving time-intensive dough fermentation for perfect texture.
The Margherita pizza, priced at ¥1,800, stands out with its Italian flour, rich tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella, all beautifully baked at 500 degrees. Meanwhile, the signature crab risotto, offered for ¥2,700, showcases the depth of flavor achieved by incorporating the essence of fresh crabs from Sagami Bay.
Viewers were also treated to additional menu highlights, such as the baked polenta with homemade bacon and various seasonal vegetable dishes, showcasing the diversity of Hayama’s food culture. Each establishment underlined the community's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, much to the delight of the audience.
This episode was not just about indulging; it was about bringing attention to Hayama as a culinary hotspot. Through intimate interviews and engaging food segments, Nakashima An and Kashima Kazuki successfully underscored the rich gastronomical heritage of this seaside town. The show hints at the growing trend of culinary tourism, where local experiences take center stage, encouraging food-lovers to explore hidden gems.
It's clear laid-back Hayama, often seen as just another picturesque beach town, is on the culinary map, with its unique offerings rapidly gaining recognition among food enthusiasts. The enthusiasm from the hosts, combined with compelling testimonials from residents, painted Hayama not just as a beautiful destination, but as one filled with delicious possibilities, making it worthwhile for anyone seeking authentic Japanese flavors.
The airing of this episode has certainly sparked interest and conversation around Hayama’s local cuisine, prompting viewers to plan trips to explore these exceptional eateries firsthand. Whether it was the expertly fried cutlets at 'Tonkatsu Hikonoya' or the delightful pizzas from 'Pizzeria Cana', the clear message was: if you find yourself near this charming town, don’t forget to feast like the locals do!