Thursday, March 26, 2020

丹頂 (Tancho in Osaka)

丹頂



Yes, this is a bowl of egg custard ramen, topped with gorgonzola cheese and set aflame. Of course it's in Osaka.



I was out working on one of the manmade islands on the edge of Osaka Bay. These islands, like Odaiba in Tokyo, are home to convention centers, theme parks, and an aquarium. This is also the terminus of the Osaka-Shanghai ferry, something I'd like to experience someday. USJ, Osaka Zepp, a bird sanctuary? How much more random can this place get?



How about Japan's shortest mountain. Mt. Tempo, though less than five meters, is an officially recognized mountain. Fun fact, I was here on August 11th, 2019. This national holiday is called, you guessed it, Mountain Day. 山の日よ!



And then there is the ramen at Tancho. Steamed egg custard is mixed with dashi broth. It's covered with a stinky cheese blend (I believe they have a non-stinky cheese version as well) and the whole thing is given a dusting of high-proof spirytus vodka. Just before serving, the chef lights it up.



Wierd, interesting junk food. No, it isn't going on any of my best-of lists, but now that you know of its existence, I'll let you decide for yourself.



Near both the aquarium and the aforementioned mountain, so maybe you want to tie it into a day out, Your call.



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