Brian Ashcraft

Originally from Texas, Ashcraft has called Osaka home since 2001. He has authored six books, including most recently, The Japanese Sake Bible.

  • The Code From The Matrix? Japanese Sushi Recipes

    The Matrix movie title credits show falling green digital code. If you know Japanese, the katakana characters will look familiar, but where did this code actually come from? The man who created the title sequence recently revealed the source: His wife’s Japanese cook book. 


  • How To Make Black Burgers

    You’ve seen Burger King Japan’s black cheese burger. You’ve seen McDonald’s black burger. You may have even read the Kotaku review. Now, learn how to make your own using squid ink and bamboo charcoal. (Warning: If you get squeamish around dead sea creatures, maybe sit this one out.)