Rice, Noodle, Fish: Deep Travels Through Japan’s Food Culture

A veteran food writer, cofounder of the Roads & Kingdoms blog, and coauthor of the bestselling Eat This, Not That series, Goulding presents this glorious account of his culinary travels throughout Japan. He manages to be entertaining, informative and inspirational as he recounts his many meals in one of the world’s most popular food destinations. Goulding’s deep appreciation for the food, country and culture shines through as he offers advice on how to get the most from a visit, profiling chefs and influential bloggers, as well as must-visit restaurants for sushi or ramen (including one that has had the same stock simmering since 1955), in addition to steering readers toward (and away from) dining experiences that may or may be worthwhile. This combination of must-sees and recommendations for day trips outside the major cities offers an immersive experience, giving readers an initiate’s sense of the country and personalities that make up the food culture. Goulding’s gift for phrasing and razor-sharp prose elevate what could have been yet another rote travelogue into something much better. [em]Agent: Kim Witherspoon, Inkwell. (Oct.) [/em]