Iron Chef

S01 E10 · 1993-12-19 · 30 min

Ishinabe vs Jacques Borie (Chicken Battle)

A special battle for Christmas. The challenger is a winner of the prestigious MOF award in France. The Iron Chef is the first Iron Chef French, Yutaka Ishinabe. This is the only Ishinabe episode, and the only episode from the first year broadcast on Food Network. Judges: Yasuo Tanaka (Novelist), Mai Kitajima (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E14 · 1994-04-15 · 30 min

Chen vs Munetaka Takahashi (Bamboo Shoots Battle)

The challenger is the first to come from Kyoto. Kyoto-style cuisine has a 1,200 year tradition. The challenger was picked by the chairman of the Kyoto Chefs Association. He decided to become a chef way back in elementary school after receiving a knife from his grandfather. Takahashi, "Kyoto style cuisine is basically mild. It is light in flavor. So I have confidence in controlling flavors at a very fine level." Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E15 · 1994-04-22 · 30 min

Sakai vs Mario Nakagawa (Lamb Battle)

Sakai must face a former apprentice. Which will prevail - Sakai's traditional methods or Nakagawa's nouveau "third wave" style? Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S02 E16 · 1994-04-29 · 30 min

Michiba vs Yukio Hattori (Truffle Battle)

Commentator Dr. Hattori issues a challenge to Michiba and is rewarded with an incredible secret ingredient. Judges: Joel Robuchon (Chef), Mai Kitajima (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E17 · 1994-05-06 · 30 min

Chen vs Hiromi Yamada (Cabbage Battle)

Italian chef Hiromi was a legend. After beset by personal tragedy and financial ruin, he seeks redemption in Kitchen Stadium. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Politician), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E18 · 1994-05-13 · 30 min

Sakai vs Hiromi Funatsu (Bonito Battle)

Sakai faces the first sushi master in a fish battle for the ages. Judges: Daijiro Hashimoto (Governor of Kochi), Mai Kitajima (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E19 · 1994-05-20 · 30 min

Sakai vs Masatoshi Kimura (Duck Battle)

Hot-flame Chinese cuisine is the challenger's specialty. Judges: Yasushi Akimoto (Music Producer), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E20 · 1994-05-27 · 30 min

Chen vs Kiyoshi Takahashi (Carrot Battle)

It's a rematch from the World Chinese Cooking contest. Kiyoshi won 3rd, but Chen won 2nd. This time it's war. Judges: Yasushi Akimoto (Songwriter/Producer), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S02 E21 · 1994-06-03 · 30 min

Michiba vs Kuniyuki Ishikawa (Natto Battle)

Fermented soy beans are the featured ingredient in this battle between two master chefs. The challenger is a certified Maestro of the the Japanese Cuisine Seminar Group, a Japanese chefs organization that has over 20,000 members. Michiba is also a certified Maestro and the leader of the group. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Ristuko Tanaka (Actress), Masaaki Hirono (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E22 · 1994-06-10 · 30 min

Michiba vs Katsumi Hanato (Sweetfish Battle)

Kandagawa brings his apprentice to kitchen stadium for a sweetfish battle.

S02 E23 · 1994-06-17 · 30 min

Sakai vs Yuji Wakiya (Sea Urchin Battle)

Sea Urchin provides a young chef the chance to revolutionalize Chinese cooking. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E24 · 1994-06-24 · 30 min

Chen vs Masahiko Miyamoto (Milk Battle)

The challenger has been the top chef at one of Japan's 3 star French eateries. Judges: Kazuyoshi Okuyama (Director), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E25 · 1994-07-01 · 30 min

Chen vs Koichi Tabata (Eggplant Battle)

The challenger is a nomad. He's worked in 200 plus restaurants, so cooking in the new environment of Kitchen Stadium is no challenge. Judges: Toshio Yamaguchi (Politician), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E26 · 1994-07-08 · 30 min

Michiba vs Takashi Mera (Tuna Battle)

Knife skills will be put to the test in battle tuna. The challenger carries one of the longest knives in Japan. Despite his father being against it, the challenger began to apprentice at age 17. He is well versed in Tea Ceremony dining. He is now head chef at a restaurant visited by many Japanese Prime Ministers. He has chosen to battle Michiba because he does not like the way the Iron Chef uses non-traditional ingredients in Japanese dishes. The theme ingredient cost approximately $10,000. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Politician), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S02 E27 · 1994-07-15 · 30 min

Sakai vs Tadaaki Shimizu (Homard Battle)

Shimizu is a sous chef at the world famous Tour D'Argent. Both chefs appreciate the quality of these expensive lobsters. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Shyoko Tamura, Masaaki Hirano

S02 E28 · 1994-07-22 · 30 min

Michiba and Chen vs Joël Bruant and Masafumi Furutaka (Sea Bass Battle)

Paul Bocuse sends two trusted apprentices to take not one, but two, iron chefs. This is the first time two Iron Chefs have been in Kitchen Stadium at the same time. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Politician), Kazuko Katoh (Actress), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano

S02 E29 · 1994-07-29 · 30 min

Sakai vs Mitsuru Saitoh (Beef Battle)

S02 E30 · 1994-08-05 · 30 min

Michiba vs Yasuhiko Yoshida (Eel Battle)

Kandagawa sends another apprentice to take down the Iron Chef in this slippery battle eel. If this challenger does not defeat Michiba, Kandagawa himself will come to Kitchen Stadium to challenge the Iron Chef. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E31 · 1994-08-12 · 30 min

Sakai vs Hirohisa Koyama (Pike Eel Battle)

Still smarting from his challenger's defeat in Sea Urchin Battle, leading gourmet writer Masuhiro Yamamoto sends another contender - Koyama, who is so popular he is a recurring character in a cooking-themed manga.

S02 E32 · 1994-08-19 · 30 min

Chen vs Katsuyo Kobayashi (Potato Battle)

Chen faces the second female chef in kitchen stadium. She is a television icon to many Japanese housewives. Both chefs enjoy fame. One's an Iron Chef, the other hosts a popular cooking show. Spuds will fly in battle potato.

S02 E33 · 1994-08-26 · 30 min

Michiba vs Keiji Nakazawa (Corn Battle)

Considered the bad boy of French cooking, Keiji takes on Michiba in a battle of culinary rebels. The challenger earned the nickname Hound Dog after a 2 hour argument with Joel Robuchon about his food. He has over 10,000 recipes written down in French. He writes in French, thinks in French, and even says he dreams in French. Judges: Yasushi Akimoto (Song Writer), Julie Dreyfus (Actress),Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E34 · 1994-09-02 · 30 min

Chen vs Hideki Ohsako (Mushroom Battle)

Aguri Suzuki (Race car driver) and Ukyo Katayama (Race car Driver) recommend the hybrid French-Italian challenger. Osako is a heavyweight contender out to challenge Iron Chef Chinese in this mushroom battle.

S02 E35 · 1994-09-09 · 30 min

Michiba vs Artur J. Rütter (Bell Pepper Battle)

The challenger is a German-born French cuisine specialist. The challenger has traveled through numerous countries collecting recipes and cooking for VIPs. Will his deficiency in the Japanese language hinder his cooking? Judges: Shigesato Itoi (Copy Writer), Kazuko Katoh (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E36 · 1994-09-16 · 30 min

Michiba vs Tsutomu Hiroi (Pacific Saury Battle)

Hiroi is a Nouvelle French Chef set to battle cutting edge Japanese master Michiba.

S02 E37 · 1994-09-23 · 30 min

Sakai vs Sotetsu Fuji (Yam Potato Battle)

Kitchen stadium becomes a temple of food as for the first time a Buddhist Priest enters for Battle: Yam

S02 E38 · 1994-09-30 · 30 min

Chen vs Takashi Saito (Prawn Battle)

Chen must face a man who was his father's trusted apprentice. When they both prepare his father's signature dish, who will win?

S02 E39 · 1994-10-07 · 30 min

Sakai vs Masamitsu Takahashi (Matsutake Mushrooms Battle)

Sakai attempts to use a traditional "Japanese" ingredient in his French cuisine

S02 E40 · 1994-10-14 · 30 min

Michiba vs Xu Peirong (Shark Fin Battle)

The 50th battle in Kitchen Stadium. The challenger is the best in Hong Kong and considered one of the top three chefs in all of China. He says he has never lost in a competition he has entered. Can he keep his winning streak going in Kitchen Stadium? Judges: Shigesato Itoi (Copy Writer), Ryuichi Sakamoto (Composer), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S02 E42 · 1994-10-28 · 30 min

Chen vs Koji Kobayashi (Pumpkin Battle)

The challenger, a great Italian talent, was thought to have disappeared. He makes his return in a surprise kitchen stadium appearance.

S02 E43 · 1994-11-04 · 30 min

Michiba vs Yasuo Kawada (Anglerfish Battle)

Michiba attacks a rising young apprentice from his hometown who critics have nicknamed "Little Michiba", in this angler assault. He uses the borderless cooking approach that made Iron Chef Michiba successful. Because of the time required to filet the theme fish, this battle is 15 minutes longer than usual. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Lower House Member), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S02 E44 · 1994-11-11 · 30 min

Chen vs Tadashi Sugita (Shanghai Crab Battle)

S02 E45 · 1994-11-18 · 30 min

Michiba vs Tatsuo Umemiya (Horse Mackerel Battle)

An actor known for his cooking skills wants a chance to see what it is like to battle in Kitchen Stadium. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Lower House Member), Hisoko Monda (Actress), Masaaki Hirano (Rosanjin Scholar)

S02 E46 · 1994-11-25 · 30 min

Sakai vs Seiya Kawasaki (Quail Battle)

Quail is the perfect secret ingredient...for the challenger. Can Sakai compete against this master of wild game cooking?

S02 E47 · 1994-12-02 · 30 min

Chen vs Toshikatsu Nakagawa (Noodle Battle)

This challenger is the right hand man of famous chef Zhou Tomitoku. He won the bronze medal at the All China Cooking Skills Contest, beating out 300 other chefs. Noodle Battle Special Rule: Challenger will cook for 60 minutes, then tasting. Iron Chef will cook for 50 minutes, then cook for his final 10 minutes after challenger tasting is completed. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S02 E48 · 1994-12-09 · 30 min

Michiba vs Hiroshi Furusho (Turkey Battle)

The challenger is a favorite of the manager of the Yakult Swallows baseball team. He is the chef at the hotel where they stay when they come to Osaka to play the Hanshin Tigers. He was once the head chef at the Japanese embassy to Morocco. He is skilled at preparing Cajun food. Many members of the Yakult Swallows are present to watch the battle. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S02 E49 · 1994-12-16 · 30 min

Sakai vs Masayo Waki (Strawberry Battle)

Christmas day brings a strawberry battle and a female competitor. Sakai has a poor track record against women competitors. Will victory be his Christmas present?

S03 E02 · 1995-01-06 · 30 min

Chen vs Toshiyuki Nakagawa (Mochi Battle)

The first challenger of 1995. The challenger heads a restaurant with seating for only 6, but it has hosted entertainers and even Prince and Princess Mikasa. He apprenticed at one of the oldest restaurants in Japan.

S03 E03 · 1995-01-13 · 30 min

Sakai vs Koji Yamada (Turnip Battle)

Yamada left Tokyo University to train as a chef under honourary Iron Chef Ishinabe. Sakai has his mentor in the audience. Diverse factors influence this beet battle.

S03 E04 · 1995-01-20 · 30 min

Chen vs Hisao Oidate (Chinese Cabbage Battle)

S03 E05 · 1995-01-27 · 30 min

Sakai vs Fuyuko Kondo (Apple & Chocolate Battle)

Kondo is the 4th woman challenger to take on Sakai. This time the dessert battle is best suited for Valentine's Day.

S03 E06 · 1995-02-03 · 30 min

Chen vs Yoshie Urabe (Soybean Battle)

Acclaimed chef Toshiro Kandagawa sends the only female chef he has ever taught into Kitchen Stadium.

S03 E07 · 1995-02-10 · 30 min

Michiba vs Masao Suzuki (Matsuba Crab Battle)

The challenger is the head chef at a restaurant that Iron Chef Michiba himself dines at frequently. Judges: Tamio Kagayama (Novelist), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S03 E08 · 1995-03-03 · 30 min

Chen vs Kunihiko Hashimoto (Taro Battle)

S03 E09 · 1995-02-24 · 30 min

Sakai vs Toshihiro Komine (Asparagus Battle)

Sakai faces a challenger known as "Mr. Gourmet." Komine is a world-class vegetable chef, who feels right at home with the secret ingredient.

S03 E10 · 1995-03-17 · 30 min

Michiba vs Wang Zhijian (Egg Battle)

The challenger makes magical noodle dishes. He is one of only 100 chefs to have received recognition as a High Class Technician. He is the youngest to have qualified for that license. He once headed the kitchen at the Chinese State Guesthouse. He is now the head chef for a hotel in Japan. Judges: Machi Tawara (Poet), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Shinichiro Kurimoto (Fmr Lower House Member)

S03 E11 · 1995-03-10 · 30 min

Chen vs Tetsutoshi Shimazu (Squid Battle)

The challenger is the first pizza expert to enter kitchen stadium. What pizzas can he create from squid?

S03 E12 · 1995-03-17 · 30 min

Sakai vs Shigeo Yuasa (Cod Battle)

Shigeo Yuasa uses shocking cooking techniques. His use of test tubes and litmus paper make him seem like a scientist, not a chef. Can Sakai prevail in this new age battle?

S03 E14 · 1995-04-07 · 30 min

Chen vs Chiyo Cho (Tofu Battle)

The Kobe earthquake could not shake this talented female chef, and now she will fight an Iron Chef.

S03 E16 · 1995-04-21 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kunio Santo (Clam Battle)

S03 E17 · 1995-05-19 · 30 min

Michiba vs Keisuke Tamano (Tilefish Battle)

Former challenger Kandagawa sends Keisuke to do his bidding. Egos, reputations, and the championship are all on the line. This challenger is the 6th one sent to Kitchen Stadium by Kandagawa. Kandagawa is angry at Michiba for some comments the Iron Chef made about him. The challenger is the head chef of one of the Kandagawa restaurants. He has watched 6 battles from the royal box in Kitchen Stadium, so he is very familiar with what it takes to win. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Politician), Chizuru Azuma (Actress), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S03 E18 · 1995-05-26 · 30 min

Kenichi vs Lee Myong Suk (Liver Battle)

S03 E19 · 1995-05-12 · 30 min

Sakai vs Isao Yanagidate (Caviar Battle)

Old versus new French cuisine, Club Mistral versus Club des Trentes--a complicated battle deserves a high end ingredient.

S03 E21 · 1995-05-26 · 30 min

Michiba vs Etsuo Joh (Broccoli Battle)

How will the challenger (the king of sauces) deal with broccoli? Doc Hattori says his sauces are amazing. He even says he wishes he could take on all three Iron Chefs at once. Can he defeat one? Judges: Mayuko Takata (Actress), Toshiki Kaifu (Fmr PM-Japan), Sachiyo Kaifu (Wife), Yasushi Akimoto

S03 E22 · 1995-06-02 · 30 min

Sakai vs Katsuo Ohmiya (Onion Battle)

S03 E23 · 1995-06-09 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kazutaka Okabe (Lamb Battle)

S03 E24 · 1995-06-16 · 30 min

Michiba vs Zeng Mingxing (Blue Crab Battle)

The challenger is the top apprentice of the Mother of Chinese cooking in Japan. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Fmr Lower House Member), Chizuru Azuma (Actress), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S03 E25 · 1995-06-23 · 30 min

Chen vs Yukihiro Noda (Sardine Battle)

S03 E27 · 1995-07-28 · 30 min

Sakai vs Takayoshi Kawai (Sole Battle)

S03 E28 · 1995-07-14 · 30 min

Sakai vs Haruyoshi Omino (Sweetfish Battle)

S03 E29 · 1995-07-21 · 30 min

Chen vs Li Jinlun (Swallow's Nest Battle)

S03 E30 · 1995-07-28 · 30 min

Sakai vs Shinichi Nagamatsu (Eggplant Battle)

S03 E31 · 1995-08-04 · 30 min

Chen vs Hisama Hirano (Sea Urchin Battle)

S03 E32 · 1995-08-11 · 30 min

Michiba vs Kenji Kaji (Umeboshi Battle)

The challenger is the head chef in Kyoto. He has mastered the style of Ikama-school of culinary arts. To separate his restaurant from the other more traditional restaurants in the area, he began creating new dishes with local ingredients. He is among the top young chefs in Kyoto. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Politician), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S03 E33 · 1995-08-18 · 30 min

Michiba and Sakai vs The Cuomo Brothers (Tomato Battle)

Tag Team Battle! Two Iron Chefs vs 2 Italian Brothers in the battle of the tomato. After growing up in Italy, these brothers started their own restaurant in Tokyo. It is so popular that you must make reservations up to 6 months in advance. Judges: Yasushi Akimoto (Songwriter), Hideki Saijo (Singer), Asako Kishi (Culinary Critic)

S03 E34 · 1995-08-25 · 30 min

Chen vs Yoshiko Takemasa (Short-necked Clam Battle)

S03 E35 · 1995-09-01 · 30 min

Sakai vs Joël Bruant (Salmon Battle)

Bruant returns to Kitchen Stadium to give the Chairman an ultimatum - if he wins, he must replace Sakai as Iron Chef French.

S03 E36 · 1995-09-08 · 30 min

Michiba vs Minoru Noda (Matsutake Mushroom Battle)

The challenger is the head chef at a members only Japanese restaurant in Los Angeles. He watches the Iron Chef episodes that air on TV in California. (Pre-Food Network IC days.) He was born in Los Angeles, but he went to Japan to live with his grandparents when he was 6 months old. He was part of a comedy duo in his teens, but he had to give that up. And while he is an American, he wishes he could be a chef in Japan. The theme ingredients cost about $4,000. Judges: Junichi Ishida (Actor), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S03 E37 · 1995-09-15 · 30 min

Sakai vs Philippe Aubron (Crayfish Battle)

S03 E38 · 1995-10-28 · 30 min

Chen vs Tsuguo Fujiwara (Sea Cucumber Battle)

S03 E40 · 1995-11-10 · 30 min

Sakai vs Sadaharu Nakajima (Rice Battle)

S03 E41 · 1995-11-17 · 30 min

Michiba vs Lin Kunbi (Potato Battle)

The challenger is one of the best in Japan at Fujian-style cooking. He opened the first Fujian-style restaurant in Japan. He is also a sixth-degree black belt in karate. Judges: Nagisa Ohshima (Director), Yoshiko Ishii (Singer), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S03 E42 · 1995-11-24 · 30 min

Michiba vs Lin Kunbi Overtime (Sweet Potato Battle)

Overtime Battle to Potato Battle After 60 minutes of battle, the scores are tied at 71. This may have been the first overtime battle in Kitchen Stadium. Judges: Nagisa Ohshima (Director), Yoshiko Ishii (Singer), Mayuko Takata (Actress), Asako Kishi (Critic)

S03 E43 · 1995-11-03 · 30 min

Chen vs Masahiko Hagiwara (Scampi Battle)

S03 E44 · 1995-11-10 · 30 min

Chen vs Kiyotaka Ikegawa (Horsehair Crab Battle Battle)

S03 E45 · 1995-11-17 · 30 min

Sakai vs Toshiro Kandagawa (Lotus Root Battle)

100th challenger special

S03 E46 · 1995-11-24 · 30 min

Sakai vs Bruno Ménard (Escargot Battle)

S03 E47 · 1995-12-01 · 30 min

Chen vs Sozo Miyamoto (Carp Battle)

S03 E48 · 1995-12-08 · 30 min

Sakai vs Tadamichi Ohta (Octopus Battle)

S03 E49 · 1995-12-15 · 30 min

Sakai vs Philippe Groult (Oyster Battle)

S03 E50 · 1995-12-22 · 30 min

Mr Iron Chef 1995: Chen vs. Sakai (Chicken Battle)

1995 Mr. Iron Chef tournament round 1

S04 E01 · 1996-01-03 · 30 min

Mr Iron Chef 1995 :Chen vs Michiba (Beef Battle) (1)

1995 Mr. Iron Chef tournament round 2 (part 1)

S04 E02 · 1996-01-05 · 30 min

Mr Iron Chef 1995 :Chen vs Michiba (Beef Battle)(2)

1995 Mr. Iron Chef tournament round 2 (part 2)

S04 E03 · 1996-01-12 · 30 min

Chen vs Gao Jinyi (Dried Abalone Battle)

S04 E04 · 1996-01-19 · 30 min

Sakai vs Hidetoshi Ushimaru (Curry Powder Battle)

S04 E05 · 1996-01-26 · 30 min

Chen vs Hiroshi Yamanobe (Scorpionfish Battle)

S04 E07 · 1996-02-09 · 30 min

Sakai vs Tadashi Yanagi (Pear & Chocolate Battle)

St. Valentine's Day chocolate-and-pear dessert battle

S04 E08 · 1996-02-16 · 30 min

Sakai vs Jinichi Tateyama (Leek Battle)

As the Chairman seeks out a new Iron Chef Japanese, Toshiro Kandagawa boasts he can offer a challenger that could replace Iron Chef French.

S04 E09 · 1996-02-23 · 30 min

Chen vs Takaya Nakazawa (Shiitake Mushroom Battle)

S04 E10 · 1996-03-01 · 30 min

Nakamura vs Kiyoshi Suzuki (Foie Gras Battle)

In Nakamura's inaugural battle as Iron Chef Japanese II, he faces the head chef of Auberge de Suzuki in Seijo.

S04 E11 · 1996-03-08 · 30 min

Chen vs Tatsujiro Yoshida (Cod Battle)

S04 E12 · 1996-03-15 · 30 min

Sakai vs Senji Osada (Scallop Battle)

S04 E13 · 1996-03-22 · 30 min

Nakamura vs Lin Kunbi (Bell Pepper Battle)

Rematch battle for chef Lin Kunbi.

S04 E14 · 1996-03-29 · 30 min

Chen vs Katsuaki Mori (Spinach Battle)

Chen's opponent has been knighted in France as the Cavalier of Cheese, and is an expert in salad. Can he prevail?

S04 E15 · 1996-04-05 · 30 min

France Special Part I: Nakamura vs. Bernard Leprince (Salmon Battle)

Chairman Takeshi Kaga travels to battle the great chefs of France - witness as Iron Chef French #2 (Hiroyuki Sakai) and Iron Chef Japanese #2 (Koumei Nakamura) battle to defend the honor of Iron Chef and the Gourmet Academy

S04 E16 · 1996-04-12 · 30 min

France Special Part II: Sakai vs. Pierre Gagnaire (Homard Lobster Battle)

Chairman Takeshi Kaga travels to battle the great chefs of France - witness as Iron Chef French #2 (Hiroyuki Sakai) and Iron Chef Japanese #2 (Koumei Nakamura) battle to defend the honor of Iron Chef and the Gourmet Academy

S04 E17 · 1996-04-19 · 30 min

Nakamura vs. Toyoaki Suganuma (Egg Battle)

S04 E18 · 1996-04-26 · 30 min

Chen vs. He Yewen (Lettuce Battle)

The new chef of Akasaka Rikyu demonstrates his distinctive Hong Kong cooking skills.

S04 E19 · 1996-05-03 · 30 min

Nakamura vs. Katsuko Nanao (Cod Roe Battle)

S04 E20 · 1996-05-10 · 30 min

Chen vs Shunji Morikawa (Pineapple Battle)

Morikawa's restaurant, Cay, is said to have pioneered Thai food in Japan. His patrons include Stephen Hawking and Yoko Ono. Can Chen beat him at his own game?

S04 E21 · 1996-05-17 · 30 min

Sakai vs Takao Tamotsu (Abalone Battle)

S04 E22 · 1996-05-24 · 30 min

Nakamura vs. Kenji Motai (Udon Battle)

The challenger is the chief instructor of culinary skills at Hattori Nutrition College and was recommended by Dr. Hattori to be the new Iron Chef Japanese after Michiba retired.

S04 E23 · 1996-05-31 · 30 min

Chen vs Ichio Gotoh (Cuttlefish Battle)

S06 E08 · 1998-02-27 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Hirayama Yukio (Red Snapper Battle)

Morimoto’s debut as an Iron Chef brings a difficult challenger—Yukio Hirayama.

S06 E09 · 1998-03-06 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kondo Motohito (Girls' Festival)

S06 E10 · 1998-03-13 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Mario Frittoli (Broccoli Battle)

Pinchiorri, the perfectionist, was a female chef in the 70's who combined French and Italian cooking techniques. Iron Chef Kobe was her apprentice. Angelo Paracucchi was also working to revolutionize Italian cooking. His star pupil, Mario Frittoli, is a master chef and today's challenger. These 2 students of Italian masters will face off in battle broccoli.

S06 E11 · 1998-04-04 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Kimura Masayoshi (Rice Battle)

The challenger is a master at using oils in his Chinese cooking. This is Morimoto's second battle. Can the secrets of Chinese cuisine beat the innovations of Iron Chef Japanese?

S06 E12 · 1998-04-10 · 30 min

Sakai vs Tomoji Ichikawa (Guinea Fowl Battle)

Tomoji Ichikawa is a French superchef in Japan. He has traveled and trained extensively in France under Pierre Troisgros. Iron Chef French will have his hands full in this battle, specially designed around Wedgewood china. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto (Fmr House Member), Kuniko Asagi (Actress), Masumi Okada (Actor), Kazuko Hosoki

S06 E13 · 1998-04-17 · 30 min

Chen vs Harada Mitsuro (Spanish Mackerel Battle)

The challenger is a Master Chef hailing from Kyoto. He, like most Iron Chefs, combines traditional knowledge with cutting edge technique and flavors to create exquisite dishes. He has the support of former Iron Chef Michiba and Dr. Yatori. Can the Iron Chef win this battle?

S06 E14 · 1998-04-24 · 30 min

Chen vs Shimamura Takashi (Pen Shell Battle)

The challenger is a seafood expert: he chooses and cooks gifts from the sea masterfully He has apprenticed in the top kitchens of Japan. Which competitor will find the soul of the sea?

S06 E15 · 1998-05-01 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Tetsuo Hagiwara (Bamboo Shoots Battle)

The challenger is a stubborn chef descended from a long line of Tokyo dwellers. Restaurants run in his family. Iron Chef Japanese will have his hand's full facing such a strong tradition. It's traditional Japanese versus neo-Japanese cooking.

S06 E16 · 1998-05-08 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Yosei Watanabe (Mango Battle)

The challenger is one of the few Mexican food specialists in Tokyo. He opened the first restaurant dedicated to Latin cuisine. He specializes in authentic Mexican food, rather than American versions of Latin cuisine. This is a Latin duel in Kitchen Stadium

S06 E17 · 1998-05-15 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Yasuhiko Habuchi (Asparagus Battle)

Andre Pachon is the leader of the French Chef community in Japan. Several of his apprentices have already appeared, but this time Pachon sends his number one man.

S06 E18 · 1998-05-22 · 30 min

Chen vs Liang Shuqing (Pork Belly Battle)

The younger sibling of the Liang brothers, rulers of Cantonese cuisine in Japan, faces Iron Chef Chinese.

S06 E19 · 1998-05-29 · 30 min

Chen vs Liang Shuqing (Konnyaku Battle) Overtime

Battle Arum Root.

S06 E20 · 1998-06-05 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kobayashi Kumiko (Mishima Beef Battle)

The challenger is a woman who knows what she likes. As an elite culinary critic, she also trained at Cordon Bleu and at Taillevent, an elite French restaurant in Paris to better understand cooking. Iron Chef will have his hands full in the Battle: French.

S06 E21 · 1998-06-12 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Kenichi Miyanaga (Sweetfish Battle)

Former Iron Chef Michiba decides that Morimoto needs some helpfinding his feet in Kitchen Stadium, so he recruits his number one sous chef from his own days in Kitchen Stadium. Kenichi Miyanaga knows the Stadium well. Can the new Iron Chef prove his worth?

S06 E22 · 1998-06-19 · 30 min

Chen vs Kentaro (Potato Battle)

Japan's culinary media is dominated by today's challenger, a food critic, musician, and graphic artist. The son a of a famous chef and former challenger, Kentaro is determined to make a name for himself in Kitchen Stadium.

S06 E23 · 1998-06-26 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Yasuhiro Sasajima (Eggplant Battle)

S06 E24 · 1998-07-03 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Takaji Yoshida (Tofu Battle)

Morimoto fights a traditionalist chef who fills his dishes with nostalgia.

S06 E25 · 1998-07-10 · 30 min

Sakai vs Shimokawa Shuzo (Jinhua Pork Battle)

S06 E26 · 1998-07-17 · 30 min

Chen vs. Junichi Itoh (Yogurt Battle)

Dubbed the scientist of cooking, the challenger has studied Italian, French and Japanese techniques for over 17 years. He is even praised by culinary critic Asako Kishi.

S06 E27 · 1997-07-24 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Kajimoto Takeshi (Abalone Battle)

S06 E28 · 1998-07-31 · 30 min

Kobe vs Sakai Miyoko (Blue Crab Battle)

S06 E29 · 1998-08-07 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Hirokazu Handa (Giant Eel Battle)

S06 E30 · 1998-08-14 · 30 min

Sakai vs Watabe Masanobu (Peach Battle)

S06 E31 · 1998-08-21 · 30 min

Chen vs Miyazawa Kaoru (Carp Battle)

S06 E32 · 1998-08-28 · 30 min

2000th Dish: French vs Chinese Part I

Part 1 of 2: Chen and Sakai gain partners, as Kaga demands a french vs Chinese showdown. The chairman also surprises everyone with 3 theme ingredients. Pork, Snapping Turtle and Banana

S06 E33 · 1998-09-04 · 30 min

2000th Dish: French vs Chinese Part II

Sakai vs. Chen. Each have a special partner chef assigned by Kaga in a French vs. Chinese showdown.

S06 E34 · 1998-09-11 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kyonori Miura (Squid Battle)

Sakai battles the "conjurer of garlic".

S06 E35 · 1998-09-18 · 30 min

Chen vs Maruyama Hideki (Sardine Battle)

S06 E36 · 1998-09-25 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Shuichi Fuji (Salmon Battle)

Led by Tadamichi Ohta, the chef who defeated Sakai, the Ohta faction invades Kitchen Stadium to uphold traditional Japanese cuisine. Fuji is Ohta's first contender against Morimoto.

S06 E37 · 1998-10-02 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Shinya Tasaki (Tuna Battle)

Tasaki is a world champion sommelier who always dreamed of becoming a famed chef. Chairman Kaga decides to grant him his wish.

S06 E38 · 1998-10-09 · 30 min

Sakai vs Ron Siegel (Lobster Battle)

An American chef enters Kitchen Stadium for a lobster battle.

S06 E39 · 1998-10-16 · 30 min

Chen vs Kagata Kyoko (Veal Battle)

The first female challenger in Kitchen Stadium, the 26 year old Kagata defeated Chen Kenichi. Years later, after studying under Chef Shimamura at the Royal Park Hotel and opening her own restaurant, she returns to fight Chen again with milk-fed veal.

S06 E40 · 1998-10-23 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Tatsutoshi Kumamoto (Natto Battle)

One month ago, the Ohta faction "invaded" Kitchen Stadium to fight Morimoto with traditional Japanese cuisine. Their leader, Tadamichi Ohta, now sends a second challenger.

S06 E41 · 1998-10-30 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Kensuke Sakai (Pumpkin Battle)

S06 E42 · 1998-11-06 · 30 min

Sakai vs Kazumi Nagayama (Saury Battle)

Nagayama was brought in to revive the venerated Tokyo University restaurant Shochiku, and now his old-and-new style will go against an Iron Chef.

S06 E43 · 1998-11-13 · 30 min

Chen vs. Hisao Yaginuma (Shanghai Cabbage Battle)

Chen defends his honor in this Bok Choy battle.

S06 E44 · 1998-11-20 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Takatsugu Sasaoka (Maitake Battle)

The challenger likes to follow one of the philosophies of Rosanjin: 'never kill the natural flavor of the ingredient.' He is known as the Prince of Japanese cuisine. He is extremely picky about the ingredients he uses. The theme ingredient costs about $150/kg ($68/lb). This is a battle between the Prince of Japanese cuisine and the Prince of Pasta.

S06 E45 · 1998-11-27 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Marco Molinari (Porcini Battle)

By the age of 13, Molinari was already a chef at a 3-star restaurant. Now, cultures clash in this mushroom battle.

S06 E46 · 1998-12-04 · 30 min

Sakai vs Hazama Mitsuo (Duck Battle)

S06 E47 · 1998-12-11 · 30 min

Kobe vs Yoneda Hiromichi (Octopus Battle)

This octopus showdown has everyone up in arms.

S06 E48 · 1998-12-18 · 30 min

Chen vs Mitsuo Suganuma (Shark Fin Battle)

S06 E49 · 1998-12-25 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Jiro Ogue (Turkey Battle)

For the 1998 Christmas day battle, the contender is the successor of Alain Chapel, a successful 3 star restaurant owner. Side Note : Christmas is not a holiday in Japan, people still have to work that day.

S07 E01 · 1999-01-08 · 30 min

Chen vs Xie Huaxian (Lobster Battle)

S07 E02 · 1999-01-15 · 30 min

Sakai vs Koei Kamimura (Codfish Battle)

S07 E03 · 1999-01-22 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Costantino Gemmoli (Bell Pepper Battle)

S07 E04 · 1999-01-29 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Hiroyuki Hakogi (Yellowtail Battle)

Toshiro Kandagawa is not happy with the results from the Ohta Faction challengers so far. Two have tried to defeat Morimoto, and two have failed. Ohta responds by choosing a challenger that is skilled at using salt. This challenger first met Ohta when he was only 15. Eight years later, he was one of Ohta's favorite cooks. He feels that salt is essential for drawing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Will the third time be the charm for the Ohta Faction.

S07 E05 · 1999-02-05 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Tetsuji Iio (King Crab Battle)

The Royal Park Hotel's Grand Chef Mitsuo Shimamura's last two proteges defeated the Iron Chefs. Iio is Shimamura's right hand man, and his strongest yet to enter Kitchen Stadium.

S07 E06 · 1999-02-12 · 30 min

Kobe vs Tsujiguchi Hironobu (Banana Battle)

S07 E07 · 1999-02-19 · 30 min

Sakai vs Senba Toshiya (Oyster Battle)

S07 E08 · 1999-02-26 · 30 min

Chen vs Asao Ryozo (Sturgeon Battle)

S07 E11 · 1999-03-19 · 30 min

Sakai vs Koji Hosogai (Oxtail Battle)

S07 E12 · 1999-03-26 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Masahara Seiya (Anglerfish Battle)

S07 E13 · 1999-04-02 · 30 min

Chen vs Cui Yufen (Chinese Cabbage Battle)

S07 E14 · 1999-04-09 · 30 min

Sakai vs. Tohru Komori (Udon Battle)

While Japanese cuisine tends to tradition-bound. This challenger refuses to be bound by old rules. He respects the basics, but is always looking for new ways to expand. He entered cooking at the age of 18. He joined a group with a 178-year tradition in Edo-style cooking.

S07 E15 · 1999-04-16 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Franco Canzoniere (Tomato Battle)

A master of Roman cuisine devotes himself to proving that his Italian cuisine is better than the Iron Chef's.

S07 E16 · 1999-04-23 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Yusuke Yamashita (Cod Roe Battle)

Morimoto faces the newest challenger from the Ohta faction, who want to prove that the Iron Chef and his innovative cooking methods are too bizarre. The challenger relies on saki to add traditional flavors.

S07 E17 · 1999-04-30 · 30 min

Morimoto vs. Yamashita Yusuke Overtime (Scallions Battle)

The Cod Roe battle ended in a tie, leading the chefs to battle with green onions (scallions).

S07 E18 · 1999-05-07 · 30 min

Chen vs Okubo Takeshi (Bean Sprout Battle)

The Kihachi sends its third challenger into Kitchen Stadium. So far the Iron Chefs have been successful against these well trained chefs. Can Chen continue the winning streak against Takeshi Okubo?

S07 E19 · 1999-05-14 · 30 min

Sakai vs Michel Husser (Lamb Battle)

The Iron Chef must face an authentic French chef who is endorsed by some of the top culinary experts of the day. The battle mimics the Sopexa, the most famous French culinary battle in Japan.

S07 E20 · 1999-05-21 · 30 min

Chen vs Spano Stelvio (Piglet Battle)

The Iron Chefs have been on a losing streak. The Chairman brings in an up and coming chef who could prove to be very dangerous indeed.

S07 E23 · 1999-06-11 · 30 min

Kobe vs Makoto Osada (Giant Lobster Battle)

Osada is the head chef of Nangoku-shuka, the Chinese restaurant that brought shark fin soup to Japan. The Prince of Pasta shows up to battle the newest challenger in this Chinese versus Italian battle.

S07 E24 · 1999-06-18 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Nakazawa Keiji (Sushi Battle)

The secret ingredient isn't an ingredient at all, but actually a style. The chairman, however, gives the chefs five themes to focus their sushi: tuna, kohada, anago, eggs, and kanpyo.

S07 E25 · 1999-06-25 · 30 min

Sakai vs Makio Isao (Black Pig Battle)

As Sakai battles thoughts of retirement, the rare ingredient is an equalizer between two powerful chefs who were friends in middle school.

S07 E26 · 1999-07-02 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Michael Noble (Potato Battle)

A Canadian superchef was inspired by an episode he watched. He brings his fine French cuisine to battle Morimoto.

S07 E27 · 1999-07-09 · 30 min

Chen vs Tateno Yuji (Sea Urchin Roe Battle)

Michiba returns to Kitchen Stadium, this time with his assistant as the competitor he's sponsoring. Yuji Tateno enters Kitchen Stadium prepared to battle an Iron Chef and to change the minds of the world-famous Zagats, culinary experts. What dish will exemplify sea urchin the best?

S07 E28 · 1999-07-16 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Tanigawa Yoshimi (Pike Eel Battle)

Kyoto's Gion festival inspires the Chairman to find a Kyoto cuisine expert. The combatants must create dishes focused on the flavor of the pike conger.

S07 E29 · 1999-07-23 · 30 min

Kobe vs. Shoji Yamaoka (Jumbo Mushroom Battle)

The two chefs battle it out over jumbo mushrooms. The challenger is a mushroom expert, so Kobe has his work cut out for him.

S07 E30 · 1999-07-30 · 30 min

Chen vs Dominique Corby (Foie Gras Battle)

In this special episode, the 300th competitor enters kitchen stadium. The chairman has Chen face a French challenger with an ingredient that does not lend itself to his cooking style.

S07 E31 · 1999-08-06 · 30 min

Chen vs. Dominique Corby Overtime (Asparagus Battle)

When the 300th challenger entered kitchen stadium, everyone expected an epic battle. This tie breaker is part two of the massive battle.

S07 E32 · 1999-08-13 · 30 min

Kobe vs Sakai Hiroki (Conger Eel Battle)

The challenger is an Italian chef who has impressed some of the biggest names in Kubuki-za theater. Will he impress the judges in Kitchen Stadium?

S07 E33 · 1999-08-20 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Watanabe Akira (Cuttlefish Battle)

Battle cuttlefish becomes a test of the chefs' seafood knowledge.

S07 E34 · 1999-08-27 · 30 min

Sakai vs Yoshihide Koga (Stingray Battle)

The sea ray rules the ocean, who will rule the kitchen?

S07 E35 · 1999-09-03 · 30 min

Morimoto vs Shigematsu Ryozo (Sea Bass Battle)

S07 E36 · 1999-09-10 · 30 min

King Of Iron Chef's Tournament Round One (Tokyo X Battle)

Two Iron Chefs will enter kitchen stadium, but only one can advance. Chen versus Kobe in a pork battle for the ages.

S07 E37 · 1999-09-17 · 30 min

King Of Iron Chef's Tournament Round Two (Bell Pepper Battle)

Steamed Bell Pepper custard and Bell Pepper Royale with Pike Eel feature in this match between Morimoto and Sakai.

S07 E38 · 1999-09-24 · 30 min

King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 1

Chen versus Sakai in what is supposed to be the grand finale of the tournament. Both Iron Chefs go all out with dishes like a classic lobster bisque and a cutting edge egg mousse and gratin au chili lobster. As the tournament nears its end, Sakai has been crowned King of Iron Chefs. Or has he? The chairman has another battle up his sleeve.

S07 E39 · 1999-10-01 · 30 min

King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 2

S07 E40 · 1999-10-08 · 30 min

King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 3

Alain Passard vs. Sakai, the winner of the King of the Iron Chef Tournament. The theme is Longgang Chicken. The challenger for this final Kitchen Stadium battle has been here before. He competed against Iron Chef Komei Nakamura in the 1997 Iron Chef World Cup. That battle ended in a tie. Chairman Kaga has invited him back to take care of this unfinished business. This chef is called the best in the world by some. He is a three star chef from France. He began cooking at 8 years old. This will a very tough challenge for the Iron Chef.