Manga artist Fuyumi Yajima is set to launch a new “yakuza gourmet” series titled Aniki! Meshi Desu yo (Big Bro! It’s Mealtime) in Kodansha’s Morning magazine. The new manga is scheduled to debut in the 39th issue of the magazine this Thursday.
A Culinary Twist in the Underworld
The new series introduces readers to Jōichirō Hashiya, a leader within the yakuza’s Sadorigumi family who suffers from amnesia after being shot. His memory loss sets the stage for a unique narrative as his subordinate, Kurume, attempts to help him regain his past through a series of homemade meals. This “yakuza gourmet” concept blends the often intense and dramatic world of the yakuza with the comforting and memory-triggering power of food.
Fuyumi Yajima’s Creative Path
Fuyumi Yajima is known for her distinctive storytelling. While specific prior works are not detailed in the immediate announcement, the launch of Aniki! Meshi Desu yo marks her venture into a genre that combines action or drama with culinary themes. This approach often resonates with readers, offering both compelling plotlines and appetizing depictions of food.
The choice of Kodansha’s Morning magazine for this launch aligns with the publication’s history of hosting diverse and often mature-themed manga. The weekly seinen manga magazine has been home to various popular and critically acclaimed series, making it a fitting platform for a story blending yakuza elements with a culinary focus.
The Growing Trend of “Gourmet Manga”
“Gourmet manga” has become a popular subgenre, often exploring food not just as sustenance, but as a catalyst for human connection, cultural exploration, and even memory. Yajima’s Aniki! Meshi Desu yo appears to tap into this trend by using food as a central element in rehabilitating a yakuza leader’s lost memories, adding a fresh twist to the genre. This narrative device allows for exploration of character development and emotional depth through the shared experience of meals.
