by The announcement of the upcoming television anime Shin Oishinbo, scheduled to premiere in 2027, has brought renewed attention to one of the most memorable aspects of the original Oishinbo anime: its unexpectedly romantic opening theme songs.
The new series has revealed its opening theme, “PROMISE ME” by Yui Makino, and ending theme, “Akashi” by Skoop On Somebody. Both artists have expressed their excitement about participating in the revival of this long-running food-themed franchise. The announcement has also encouraged longtime viewers to look back at the music of the original television anime, particularly its two distinctive opening songs, “YOU” and “Dang Dang Kininaru.”
At first glance, Oishinbo seems like a series that would naturally call for energetic music about cooking, delicious ingredients, or intense culinary competitions. After all, its central story revolves around Shiro Yamaoka and his father, Yuzan Kaibara, competing to create the ultimate and supreme menus.
Yet the original anime took a surprisingly different musical direction.
Its first opening theme, “YOU,” performed by Megumi Yuki, featured a sophisticated melody and romantic lyrics. It was followed by “Dang Dang Kininaru,” performed by Yuma Nakamura, a lively and stylish song with a distinctly urban sound.
Neither opening sounded like the traditional theme song of a food-focused anime. Instead, both captured the romantic atmosphere and fashionable musical sensibilities of late-1980s and early-1990s Japan.
So why did an anime about gourmet food, family conflict, and social issues choose two love songs as its opening themes? Was it simply a reflection of the musical trends of the time, or did the romantic direction actually suit the story more than viewers initially realised?
With Shin Oishinbo preparing to return in 2027, this is a perfect opportunity to revisit the original songs and explore their connection to the series.
Why Were the Original Oishinbo Opening Themes Love Songs?
When people think of Oishinbo, the first things that usually come to mind are food, cooking techniques, rare ingredients, and the ongoing rivalry between Shiro Yamaoka and Yuzan Kaibara.
The story follows Yamaoka, a newspaper reporter who is assigned to help create the newspaper’s prestigious Ultimate Menu. His father, Kaibara, leads the competing Supreme Menu project, creating a long-running culinary rivalry between the two.
Considering this premise, it would be reasonable to expect an opening theme filled with dramatic music, passionate lyrics, or references to food and cooking.
However, the original anime surprised viewers with something quite different.
The first opening, “YOU,” performed by Megumi Yuki, had a polished, romantic sound that felt more appropriate for a stylish city drama than a series about gourmet journalism.
Its lyrics focused on romantic feelings and the atmosphere of an urban night. The visual presentation also created an interesting contrast with the anime’s food-centred identity.
One particularly memorable impression comes from the image of Yamaoka turning around while the song’s lyrics evoke the glittering lights of the city.
It was an unusual combination: a serious gourmet journalist appearing alongside a sophisticated love song.
The second opening, “Dang Dang Kininaru,” continued in a similar direction. Rather than switching to a more dramatic or food-oriented musical style, the anime introduced another romantic pop song with a light, catchy melody.
For viewers expecting a passionate musical introduction to the Ultimate Menu versus Supreme Menu competition, the choice might have seemed surprising.
But perhaps the opening themes were never intended to represent only the cooking battles. They also reflected the personalities, relationships, and everyday atmosphere surrounding the characters.
“YOU” by Megumi Yuki: A Romantic City Sound for the First 23 Episodes
The original Oishinbo television anime began with “YOU,” performed by Megumi Yuki. The song served as the opening theme for episodes 1 through 23.
The track features a sophisticated arrangement and a romantic melody that captures the feeling of a city at night. Its sound is noticeably different from the energetic opening themes commonly associated with action-oriented anime.
The lyrics focus on love, longing, and the possibility of meeting someone special. Rather than introducing the viewer to cooking competitions or culinary techniques, the song creates a more personal and emotional atmosphere.
The musical credits are also worth noting:
- Song: YOU
- Vocalist: Megumi Yuki
- Lyrics: Yoshikatsu Hiraide
- Composition: Tsunehiro Izumi
- Arrangement: Kazuo Otani
- Episodes: 1–23
The song’s polished sound gives it a strong connection to the Japanese pop music of its era. Its romantic mood also makes it feel like a musical snapshot of late-1980s urban culture.
Interestingly, the original anime used another song by Megumi Yuki, “TWO OF US,” as its ending theme during the same episodes.
Together, the opening and ending created a consistent musical identity for the first part of the series. Both songs leaned toward romance and sophisticated pop rather than directly reflecting the food-related subject matter.
For longtime fans, “YOU” remains an important part of the original anime’s nostalgic atmosphere.
“Dang Dang Kininaru” by Yuma Nakamura: The City Pop Feeling Becomes Even Stronger
From episode 24 onward, the original anime introduced its second opening theme, “Dang Dang Kininaru,” performed by Yuma Nakamura.
If “YOU” already felt unexpectedly stylish for a gourmet anime, the second opening continued that approach with an even more energetic and catchy musical presentation.
“Dang Dang Kininaru” features a light, urban pop sound that fits comfortably alongside the fashionable Japanese music of the late 1980s.
The song was composed by Tetsuji Hayashi, one of the important composers associated with Japanese pop music and the city pop sound of the 1980s. His work includes well-known songs such as Mariya Takeuchi’s “SEPTEMBER” and Anri’s “Kanashimi ga Tomaranai.”
The full opening theme credits are:
- Song: Dang Dang Kininaru
- Vocalist: Yuma Nakamura
- Lyrics: Masao Urino
- Composition: Tetsuji Hayashi
- Arrangement: Motoki Funayama
- Episodes: 24–136
The ending theme also changed during this period. Nakamura performed “LINE,” which was used as the ending song for episodes 24 through 136.
This meant that the second half of the original anime continued with a consistent musical identity built around Nakamura’s songs.
The catchy melody of “Dang Dang Kininaru” helped make it one of the most recognisable musical elements associated with the series.
Its popularity among nostalgic anime fans is understandable. Even when separated from the anime, the song works as an enjoyable example of the bright, polished pop sound that defined an important period in Japanese music.
Tetsuji Hayashi and the Connection to 1980s City Pop
One of the biggest reasons “Dang Dang Kininaru” sounds so distinctive is the involvement of composer Tetsuji Hayashi.
Hayashi is widely recognised for his contribution to Japanese popular music, particularly the sophisticated pop sound that became associated with the city pop movement.
City pop is a broad term used to describe a range of Japanese pop music that developed during the 1970s and became especially prominent in the 1980s. The style often combines elements of pop, funk, soul, jazz, disco, and soft rock.
Common characteristics include:
- Smooth and polished musical arrangements
- Catchy melodies and sophisticated harmonies
- Urban and romantic themes
- A relaxed yet energetic atmosphere
- Strong influences from Western pop and R&B
Hayashi’s work on “Dang Dang Kininaru” gives the song a connection to this musical tradition.
His other well-known compositions include Mariya Takeuchi’s “SEPTEMBER” and Anri’s “Kanashimi ga Tomaranai.” These songs are also associated with the polished Japanese pop sound that has continued to attract listeners decades after their original releases.
That connection makes the Oishinbo opening especially interesting today. A song that might once have seemed like an unexpected choice for a cooking anime can now be appreciated as part of the broader musical culture of its era.
The original anime did not simply use generic background music. Its theme songs reflected the sophisticated pop sensibilities of the time.
The Bubble-Era Atmosphere: Was There a Reason Behind the Romantic Music?
The original Oishinbo television anime began broadcasting in October 1988, during Japan’s economic bubble era.
This was a period associated with rapid economic growth, consumer culture, fashionable city lifestyles, and a thriving entertainment industry.
Music, television, fashion, and advertising all reflected the atmosphere of the period. Sophisticated pop songs, romantic melodies, and urban imagery were particularly visible in Japanese popular entertainment.
The opening themes of Oishinbo fit naturally into that environment.
Rather than using music that directly described food or cooking, the anime adopted songs that reflected the contemporary musical tastes of its audience.
It is tempting to interpret this choice as a deliberate attempt to make the series feel more fashionable or modern. However, without an official explanation from the original production team, it is difficult to establish exactly why the songs were selected.
Still, the result is clear: the original anime developed a distinctive identity by combining a story about traditional food culture with the stylish pop music of contemporary Japan.
That contrast is one of the reasons its opening themes remain memorable.
Oishinbo Was Never Just About Food: Romance and Family Were Always Important
Although food is the foundation of Oishinbo, the series gradually reveals that its story is about much more than cooking.
The relationship between Shiro Yamaoka and Yuzan Kaibara is one of its most important dramatic elements. Their competition over the Ultimate Menu and Supreme Menu is not simply a professional disagreement. It is also connected to their complicated father-and-son relationship.
Yamaoka and Kaibara have very different personalities, approaches to food, and ideas about what makes a dish truly excellent.
Their disagreements often lead to heated confrontations, but the story also explores the emotions and personal history behind their rivalry.
At the same time, the relationship between Shiro Yamaoka and Yuko Kurita gradually develops.
Kurita begins as Yamaoka’s colleague in the newspaper’s Culture Department. As they work together, their professional relationship becomes increasingly personal.
Their romance eventually progresses into marriage and family life, giving the series an additional emotional dimension.
This development makes the original opening themes seem less unusual in retrospect.
Although the anime is famous for its culinary competitions, it also contains romantic relationships, workplace interactions, family drama, and stories about ordinary people.
The music may have focused more strongly on romance than some viewers expected, but it was not completely disconnected from the broader themes of the series.
How the New 2027 Anime Continues the Story
After more than three decades, Oishinbo is preparing to return with a new television anime titled Shin Oishinbo.
The new series is scheduled to broadcast in 2027 and will continue the story of Shiro Yamaoka, Yuko Kurita, and Yuzan Kaibara.
The previous television anime aired from 1988 to 1992 and consisted of 136 episodes. Two additional television specials followed, with the last one airing in 1993.
The 2027 project therefore marks the franchise’s first new animated production in approximately 34 years since the 1993 special, and its first new television series in approximately 35 years.
The new anime will continue the rivalry between the Ultimate Menu and Supreme Menu, while also giving attention to the developing relationships between its central characters.
One important new character is Ichiro Dan, the young president of Daikensha. He becomes involved in the culinary competition and falls in love with Yuko Kurita at first sight.
His arrival creates the possibility of new romantic complications involving Kurita and Yamaoka.
The official synopsis describes the story as a continuation of the intense culinary rivalry, with the relationship between Yamaoka and Kurita also taking an important role.
This combination of food competitions and romantic developments makes the new series particularly interesting when viewed alongside the original anime’s musical history.
New Oishinbo Opening Theme: Yui Makino’s “PROMISE ME”
The opening theme of Shin Oishinbo will be “PROMISE ME,” performed by Yui Makino.
Makino is a voice actress and singer who has built a career across anime, music, and live performances.
Her selection is especially interesting because the new song has been described as having a city pop-inspired atmosphere. The official announcement also revealed a new artist photograph whose visual style reflects the song’s musical image.
This creates an appealing connection with the original anime’s opening themes.
The original series featured “YOU” and “Dang Dang Kininaru,” both of which carried a sophisticated urban pop sound. Now, the new series is introducing “PROMISE ME,” which also draws on city pop-inspired musical styling.
It is not yet confirmed that the new song is intended as a direct musical tribute to the original openings. Nevertheless, the stylistic connection provides an interesting point of comparison for longtime fans.
Makino also shared her excitement about being involved in a series that has continued to attract attention across generations.
She revealed that she had a personal connection to the franchise from childhood, making the opportunity particularly meaningful.
The song’s release information has not yet been announced, so fans will need to wait for further details about its availability.
Skoop On Somebody Performs the Ending Theme “Akashi”
The ending theme for Shin Oishinbo will be “Akashi” (証), performed by Skoop On Somebody.
Skoop On Somebody is a Japanese music group known for its vocal-focused pop and R&B-influenced sound.
The group has also shared its excitement about contributing to a series that its members personally enjoy.
In a comment, vocalist TAKE expressed admiration for Shiro Yamaoka, describing him as a man who pursues genuine quality rather than simply following trends or appearances.
He also connected the character’s determination to the group’s own musical philosophy, explaining that they hope to continue pursuing authenticity as musicians.
The collaboration is especially meaningful because Skoop On Somebody will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2027.
The group also expressed the hope that “Akashi” would deliver a message of love to audiences across generations alongside the anime.
The title “Akashi” can be translated as “proof” or “evidence,” depending on the context. Its meaning offers an interesting emotional contrast with the opening theme’s title, “PROMISE ME.”
Together, the two songs could provide a musical framework for the new series’ themes of relationships, personal values, and the search for something genuine.
Oishinbo’s Legacy and the Growing Popularity of City Pop
Another reason the original opening themes deserve attention is the renewed international interest in Japanese city pop.
In recent years, Japanese pop music from the 1970s and 1980s has found new audiences through streaming platforms, online music communities, video-sharing websites, and social media.
Songs that were originally released decades ago are now being discovered by listeners who may not have grown up with the music or even watched the television programmes associated with it.
This renewed interest has also encouraged audiences to explore the musical culture of the era more broadly.
For example, “Dang Dang Kininaru” can be appreciated not only as an Oishinbo opening theme but also as a piece of Japanese pop music connected to the musical style of its time.
The same is true of “YOU,” whose romantic melody and urban atmosphere capture a different side of the late-1980s anime experience.
For younger viewers discovering Oishinbo through the upcoming 2027 series, listening to the original openings could be an enjoyable way to explore the franchise’s history.
It also demonstrates how anime theme songs can become memorable independently of the stories they accompany.
Will Shin Oishinbo Bring Back the Original’s Musical Charm?
The original Oishinbo anime made an unexpected musical choice by using romantic pop songs instead of conventional food-themed opening music.
“YOU” by Megumi Yuki and “Dang Dang Kininaru” by Yuma Nakamura created a stylish atmosphere that reflected the pop culture of their era. Their connection to composers such as Tsunehiro Izumi and Tetsuji Hayashi also gave the series a distinctive musical identity.
Looking back, the choice seems less strange when we remember that Oishinbo is not simply a story about cooking. It is also a story about relationships, family, workplace life, personal values, and the emotional connections people develop through food.
Now, with Shin Oishinbo scheduled to arrive in 2027, the franchise is introducing a new musical direction through Yui Makino’s “PROMISE ME” and Skoop On Somebody’s “Akashi.”
The city pop-inspired atmosphere associated with the new opening provides an especially interesting connection to the original anime.
Whether the new songs become as memorable as “YOU” and “Dang Dang Kininaru” remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the return of Oishinbo offers longtime fans a wonderful opportunity to revisit its music while introducing a new generation to one of Japan’s most recognisable gourmet anime franchises.
