#45, Food

Regardless one's age, gender, or race, food binds all people together. A good meal can be shared with anyone at any time, anywhere on Earth and be appreciated all the same. I have memories from all aspects of life, but those of extraordinary meals burn especially bright. From yak burgers in Tibet, to the fall-off-the-bone barbecue in Mississippi to seizure-inducing hot pot in Szechuan, and more recently, the infamous 홍어회, an uncommon dining experience stays with me long after its flavors have faded. I experienced one of the more scrumptious meals of my life at Tsukiji Market in Tokyo...

I wander aimlessly through a maze of vendors and discarded white styrofoam boxes. I have come to the market for a single purpose and will not rest until I have seen it through. I pass by a rotating sushi restaurant, knowing the best Tsukiji has to offer isn't there. In the distance I see a small crowd gathered and instinctively begin towards them. A humble line has formed at a hole-in-the-wall, a sign with alien characters perched above its entrance. I glance inside and see a wooden counter packed with men, women, and children sitting shoulder to shoulder. This is it.

After a short, yet excruciatingly long wait, a seat opens up inside. I enter eagerly, stuff my backpack between the stool and the counter and prop myself up. My understanding of Japanese is non-existent, so to be safe, I order the most expensive dish, sakura. After some awkward gesticulating and flailing of the arms, the chef understands my order and begins to meticulously construct an exceptional plate.

The dish that was presented to me is pictured above. I had eaten sushi several times before this dish, but this was the first time I had eaten sushi. My mouth waters just looking at the photo.

Describe one extraordinary meal from personal experience. Use descriptive language and try to engage the reader's senses (hearing, sight, touch, smell, taste). Make the reader feel something.

Optional: Respond to your classmates' responses with @. Describe a particularly repulsive meal as well.

-Brenden Lee Teacher

be worthy of it, constantly