Kenji, on a mission to try every chicken teriyaki joint in Seattle, discusses the unique culture of the city's teriyaki scene compared to New York pizza culture. The podcast explores the culinary significance of teriyaki in Seattle and its absence in other cities, as well as the personal narratives of a Korean family-owned teriyaki spot.
Seattle's chicken teriyaki is a unique style exclusive to Seattle, with a sweet mayo-based salad dressing.
Teriyaki in Seattle offers a diverse range of flavors influenced by immigrant communities beyond traditional options.
Deep dives
The Origins of Chicken Teriyaki in Seattle
Chicken teriyaki was invented in Seattle by a man named Toshii in 1976. This style of teriyaki, with its unique set presentation and sweet mayo-based salad dressing, is exclusive to Seattle and not found in Japan. Seattle boasts around 100 teriyaki spots in every neighborhood, making it a ubiquitous local favorite. The popularity of teriyaki has led to variations influenced by Asian immigrants, offering diverse menu items beyond traditional teriyaki.
Seattle's Uniquely Seattle Teriyaki Experience
Seattle's chicken teriyaki is served as a set with two scoops of white rice, a unique sweet mayo-based salad, and grilled chicken thigh marinated and grilled to perfection. The teriyaki sauce strikes a balance between sweet and savory, often thickened with cornstarch. Some variations in Seattle incorporate Hawaiian influences like pineapple juice in the sauce, offering a diverse range of flavors and options for teriyaki lovers.
Exploring Seattle Through Its Teriyaki Spots
For Kenji, the journey to visit every teriyaki spot in Seattle serves as a way to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods. The quest provides an opportunity to delve into the cultural and culinary tapestry of Seattle, revealing the unique characteristics of each teriyaki joint and the personal stories behind them. By immersing himself in the local teriyaki scene, Kenji aims to create a comprehensive guide for both residents and visitors, highlighting the richness and vibrancy of Seattle's teriyaki culture.