Amar Akshat
Google
Revisiting Tsukishima after five long years has been like flipping through the pages of a cherished photo album, where each memory is a savory delight. The process of cooking Monjayaki is almost ceremonial: you start by artistically arranging a circle of crisp cabbage and your choice of toppings on the hot griddle, a mosaic of colors and textures awaiting transformation. The 'Monja' mixture, a medley of flour, water, and dashi, is then ceremoniously poured into the heart of the cabbage ring. The trick to achieving that perfectly gooey consistency lies in the patience of letting it simmer and blend with the medley of ingredients, stirring with tender care until it reaches the desired thickness.
For a nostalgic culinary journey, the ‘Ebi' (shrimp) Monjayaki is a must-try, with its succulent seafood melding into the savory batter, while the 'Cheese' Monjayaki offers a gooey, stretchy experience that pulls at both the heartstrings and chopsticks. And as for Okonomiyaki, the classic 'Buta' (pork) is a timeless choice, with layers of tender meat and batter topped with a dance of bonito flakes, a performance of flavors and textures that's as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate.
Eating at Tsukishima is not just a meal; it's a hands-on dive into the culinary arts, a place where every sizzle on the griddle marks the rhythm of a city that's alive with flavor and history. So here's a tip for the perfect Monjayaki: let the ingredients tell their story on the griddle, guiding them gently, and they will reward you with a taste of Tokyo's soul.