In a classic line from perhaps the greatest mocumentary ever made, Nigel Tufnel explains to Rob Reiner that Spinal Tap’s amps “go to 11.” Reiner seems dubious. “If we need that extra push over the cliff,” Tufnel expounded, “you know what we do? 11! Exactly!” What Tufnel was … [Read more...]
WORLD FARE: Hachi Ramen lightly pushes the boundaries
Japanese cuisine often feels old, but this isn’t always true. Even though ramen is Japan’s national dish, for example, it wasn’t created until the early 20th century and has been endlessly reinvented ever since. Sometimes, especially outside of Japan, that innovation tends to … [Read more...]
WORLD FARE: Japanese style comfort food at Santouka and Musashiya
"Edible art" is an idea often attached to Japanese high cuisine like sushi or kaeseki. But the notion that Japanese food is inherently precious and high-end is exaggerated at best. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka and Musashiya, both inside the Mitsuwa Marketplace (4240 Kearny Mesa Road), … [Read more...]