Ep 51. E 51
- November 17, 2015
- 24 min
On E 51 of the Japanese cooking anime Yakitate!! Japan, viewers follow protagonist Azuma Kazuma as he competes in the Monaco Cup, a worldwide baking competition. Azuma has faced numerous challenges thus far in his baking career, but none quite as daunting as this international showdown.
As E 51 begins, the stakes are high for Azuma and Japan's other representative, the sassy and confident Suwabara Kai. Only one country can emerge victorious in the Monaco Cup, and the pressure on both young bakers is palpable.
Azuma's nerves are further frayed when he realizes that his competition is the skilled baker who owns the pantasia chain, Yukino Kuroyanagi. Yukino is a formidable opponent, and her success in the cup is almost a given.
Despite his doubts, Azuma gamely heads into the competition with the help of his supportive friends and coworkers at the bakery. In fact, it's Azuma's teamwork and collaboration with his fellow bakers that ultimately turn the tide in his favor.
One particular challenge in E 51 requires the competitors to create bread using an unusual ingredient. Yukino is confident that she can use this item to her advantage, but Azuma struggles at first. However, Azuma's creative thinking and quick reflexes - a hallmark of his baking style - come to the rescue, and he whips up a truly unique loaf of bread.
As the competition progresses, Azuma and Kai face down a series of impressive competitors, including the lady-like pastry chef Monica Adenauer and the stern, no-nonsense baker John. There are moments of drama and tension, as well as plenty of opportunities for characters to bond and reflect on their life journeys thus far.
Eventually, the Monaco Cup comes down to a showdown between Azuma and Yukino. While the massive audience holds its breath, both bakers present their final creations - and moments later, the winner is announced.
While we won't spoil the ending, suffice it to say that the episode's conclusion is satisfying and rewarding for fans who have been following Azuma's journey from the start. E 51 is a testament to the power of hard work, collective action, and a steadfast commitment to one's passion.
