Ep 9. Nikujaga (Meat-Potato Stew)

The show Midnight Diner is a Japanese series set in a cozy diner in Tokyo where the Master, the owner of the restaurant, serves comfort food to his regular customers, all with unique stories and backgrounds. The second season, episode 9, is titled Nikujaga (Meat-Potato Stew).

The episode begins with regular customers coming into the diner, greeting the Master, and sitting down at their usual spot. The first customer, a middle-aged man named Tanaka, orders a dish he hasn't had since his childhood - Nikujaga. He shares with the other customers that it reminds him of his grandmother, and how she used to make it for him when he was a child. The Master obliges, and begins cooking the dish in his small, cozy kitchen.

As the dish cooks, the other customers share their memories of Nikujaga and how they used to eat it growing up. A young couple talks about how they make it at home but add their special twist to it by using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Another customer, an elderly woman, shares how her grandfather used to make a simpler version of the dish with only meat and potatoes during the war.

As the Master finishes cooking the dish, Tanaka takes his first bite and reminisces about the flavors of his grandmother's Nikujaga. Another customer, a young man named Ogiwara, joins in and shares that Nikujaga was his favorite dish growing up. However, his mother always made the dish too watery, and he never got the chance to taste the dish the way it should be.

Upon hearing this, the Master decides to make a special version of the dish just for Ogiwara. He adds more meat and potatoes, cooks it for a little longer, and creates a thicker sauce. Ogiwara takes his first bite and praises the Master for creating the perfect dish.

As the night continues, more customers come in and order Nikujaga, each with their unique stories and memories tied to the dish. The Master continues to make the dish with care, adding his special touch to each dish, creating a sense of comfort and nostalgia for each of his customers.

Nikujaga (Meat-Potato Stew) is a heartwarming episode that showcases the power of food in bringing people together and creating lasting memories. The Master's dedication and attention to detail to each dish show the importance of taking pride in one's work and how such small details can make a significant impact on one's customers. The episode is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food and enjoys hearing heartwarming stories tied to it.