Toriko by Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro

To say Japan’s obsessed with food would be an understatement. Food and its preparation are on a whole different level there. And while there have been numerous manga about food, there’s never been one like Toriko—a brilliant mixture of classic shonen manga elements, like crazy combat, super moves, friendship and adventure mixed with monsters and an obsession of food. Welcome to the Age of Gourmet!

In volume eight, Toriko and his top chef companion Komatsu visit Gourmet Town. Gourmet Town is a bustling metropolis where it’s said you can sample every food under the sun. There they are treated to a meal from the Gourmet Living Legend, Chef Setsuno. The title of Gourmet Living Legend is only bestowed on four people in the entire world, so when she sends Toriko on a quest to get the Century Soup, he’s more than happy to oblige. But only the Gourmet Millionaire Colonel Mokkoi knows the whereabouts of the soup, and he’s promised ten billion to any Gourmet Hunter who can get it! Can Toriko and Komatsu edge out the competition?

This manga is amazing for a lot of reasons, one of which is the amazing Gourmet World Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro has created. As absurd as it is, it’s totally believable because it’s so well thought out and intricate. The insanely over the top characters fit right in and, like the ingredients of a well cooked meal, meld together and compliment each other. Oh, and if you’re a foodie, the images of food are so well drawn, don’t be surprised if you find your mouth watering.

You can enjoy this tasty manga when it goes on sale February 7th! Bon Appétit!

Related Links:
Graphic Novels
Weekly Shonen Jump Alpha
Manga
Previews
Toriko

by Urian Brown