Hungry for an epic battle manga? If you’re not into Toriko, the manliest, most scrumptious manga in SHONEN JUMP, you are totally missing out! Read part one of our interview with Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro, and you’ll get a jump-start on understanding the true secrets behind the toughest Gourmet Hunters, the best chefs, and the most exotic ingredients in the world!  Let’s chow down! Fork! Knife! Itadakimasu!

Q: Toriko is a unique series even among the other Shonen Jump manga. Tell us how you came up with a concept that focused on food.

MS: The theme of Toriko is all based on food because I find those moments when people are eating food to be very intriguing.

To read the rest of this interview in this week's SJ Alpha (April 2, 2012 issue)! For more members-only exclusives, become an SJ Alpha member today!

Related Links:
Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro Full Interview (coming soon!)
Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro Creator Sketch Video (coming soon!)
EXCLUSIVE: Mitsutoshi Shimabukuro Spotlight
EXCLUSIVE: Eiichiro Oda Spotlight
EXCLUSIVE: Masashi Kishimoto Spotlight
EXCLUSIVE: Tite Kubo Spotlight

Interview by Misaki C. Kido (@Onnabancho_J)