Iron Chef

1. Ishinabe vs. Maruyama Takeshi (Salmon Battle)

Air Date: 1993-10-10

2. Michiba VS Kobayakawa Yousei (Foie Gras Battle)

Air Date: 1993-10-17

3. Chen vs Indoragori Paulo (Globefish Battle)

Air Date: 1993-10-31

4. Chen vs Kudo Toshiyuki (Tofu Battle)

Air Date: 1993-11-07

5. Michiba vs Syu Tomiteru (Lobster Battle)

Air Date: 1993-11-14

6. Chen VS Tei Kazuhiko (Octopus Battle)

Air Date: 1993-11-21

7. Ishinabe vs Muto Masato (Radish Battle)

Air Date: 1993-11-28

8. Michiba vs Syu Tomitoku (Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1993-12-05

9. Ishinabe VS Oyama Eizo (Banana Battle)

Air Date: 1993-12-12

10. Ishinabe vs Jacques Borie (Chicken Battle)

Air Date: 1993-12-19

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)

1. Michiba VS Shu Tomitoku (Pork Battle)

Air Date: 1994-01-09

2. Chen vs Wan Weiping (Squid Battle)

Air Date: 1994-01-16

3. Michiba VS Hoshino Jun (Egg Battle)

Air Date: 1994-01-23

4. Michiba VS Tanabe Toshio (Sea Bream Battle)

Air Date: 1994-01-30

5. Chin VS Taniguchi Kouichi (Shrimp Battle)

Air Date: 1994-02-06

6. Michiba VS Masaki Kazuyoshi (Anago Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1994-02-13

7. Chen vs Kandagawa Toshiro (Flounder Battle)

Air Date: 1994-02-20

8. Sakai VS Guy Shokr (Oyster Battle)

Air Date: 1994-02-27

9. Chen vs Kondo Shinji (Wheat Battle)

Air Date: 1994-03-06

10. Sakai vs Kitami Hiroyuki (Tomato Battle)

Air Date: 1994-03-13

11. Chen vs Kagata Kyoko (Scallop Battle)

Air Date: 1994-03-20

12. Michiba VS Otakura Hideaki (Cheese Battle)

Air Date: 1994-03-27

13. Michiba VS Goto Koichiro (Rice Battle)

Air Date: 1994-04-08

14. Chen vs Munetaka Takahashi (Bamboo Shoots Battle)

Air Date: 1994-04-15

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)

15. Sakai vs Mario Nakagawa (Lamb Battle)

Air Date: 1994-04-22

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)

16. Michiba vs Yukio Hattori (Truffle Battle)

Air Date: 1994-04-29

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)

17. Chen vs Hiromi Yamada (Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1994-05-06

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)

18. Sakai vs Hiromi Funatsu (Bonito Battle)

Air Date: 1994-05-13

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)

19. Sakai vs Masatoshi Kimura (Duck Battle)

Air Date: 1994-05-20

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

20. Chen vs Kiyoshi Takahashi (Carrot Battle)

Air Date: 1994-05-27

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)

21. Michiba vs Kuniyuki Ishikawa (Natto Battle)

Air Date: 1994-06-03

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)

22. Michiba vs Katsumi Hanato (Sweetfish Battle)

Air Date: 1994-06-10

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

23. Sakai vs Yuji Wakiya (Sea Urchin Battle)

Air Date: 1994-06-17

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

24. Chen vs Masahiko Miyamoto (Milk Battle)

Air Date: 1994-06-24

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)

25. Chen vs Koichi Tabata (Eggplant Battle)

Air Date: 1994-07-01

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)

26. Michiba vs Takashi Mera (Tuna Battle)

Air Date: 1994-07-08

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)

27. Sakai vs Tadaaki Shimizu (Homard Battle)

Air Date: 1994-07-15

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

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

Air Date: 1994-07-22

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

29. Sakai vs Mitsuru Saitoh (Beef Battle)

Air Date: 1994-07-29

30. Michiba vs Yasuhiko Yoshida (Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1994-08-05

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)

31. Sakai vs Hirohisa Koyama (Pike Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1994-08-12

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.

32. Chen vs Katsuyo Kobayashi (Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1994-08-19

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.

33. Michiba vs Keiji Nakazawa (Corn Battle)

Air Date: 1994-08-26

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)

34. Chen vs Hideki Ohsako (Mushroom Battle)

Air Date: 1994-09-02

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.

35. Michiba vs Artur J. Rütter (Bell Pepper Battle)

Air Date: 1994-09-09

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)

36. Michiba vs Tsutomu Hiroi (Pacific Saury Battle)

Air Date: 1994-09-16

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

37. Sakai vs Sotetsu Fuji (Yam Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1994-09-23

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

38. Chen vs Takashi Saito (Prawn Battle)

Air Date: 1994-09-30

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

39. Sakai vs Masamitsu Takahashi (Matsutake Mushrooms Battle)

Air Date: 1994-10-07

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

40. Michiba vs Xu Peirong (Shark Fin Battle)

Air Date: 1994-10-14

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)

41. Sakai VS Sekihata Katsuyuki (Bread Battle)

Air Date: 1994-10-21

42. Chen vs Koji Kobayashi (Pumpkin Battle)

Air Date: 1994-10-28

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

43. Michiba vs Yasuo Kawada (Anglerfish Battle)

Air Date: 1994-11-04

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)

44. Chen vs Tadashi Sugita (Shanghai Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1994-11-11

45. Michiba vs Tatsuo Umemiya (Horse Mackerel Battle)

Air Date: 1994-11-18

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)

46. Sakai vs Seiya Kawasaki (Quail Battle)

Air Date: 1994-11-25

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

47. Chen vs Toshikatsu Nakagawa (Noodle Battle)

Air Date: 1994-12-02

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)

48. Michiba vs Hiroshi Furusho (Turkey Battle)

Air Date: 1994-12-09

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)

49. Sakai vs Masayo Waki (Strawberry Battle)

Air Date: 1994-12-16

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?

50. Mr. Iron Chef 1994: Preliminaries

Air Date: 1994-12-23

The three battles that make up the "Mr. Iron Chef 1994" tournament. Four challengers battle each other and the winner faces an Iron Chef in the first episode of the next year.

1. Mr. Iron Chef 1994: Final (Yellowtail)

Air Date: 1995-01-02

The winner of the Mr. Iron Chef 1994 tournament takes on an Iron Chef.

2. Chen vs Toshiyuki Nakagawa (Mochi Battle)

Air Date: 1995-01-06

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.

3. Sakai vs Koji Yamada (Turnip Battle)

Air Date: 1995-01-13

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.

4. Chen vs Hisao Oidate (Chinese Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1995-01-20

5. Sakai vs Fuyuko Kondo (Apple & Chocolate Battle)

Air Date: 1995-01-27

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

6. Chen vs Yoshie Urabe (Soybean Battle)

Air Date: 1995-02-03

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

7. Michiba vs Masao Suzuki (Matsuba Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1995-02-10

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)

8. Chen vs Kunihiko Hashimoto (Taro Battle)

Air Date: 1995-03-03

9. Sakai vs Toshihiro Komine (Asparagus Battle)

Air Date: 1995-02-24

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

10. Michiba vs Wang Zhijian (Egg Battle)

Air Date: 1995-03-17

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)

11. Chen vs Tetsutoshi Shimazu (Squid Battle)

Air Date: 1995-03-10

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

12. Sakai vs Shigeo Yuasa (Cod Battle)

Air Date: 1995-03-17

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?

13. Hong Kong Special: Pork, Spiny Lobster

Air Date: 1995-04-21

Two hour special featuring Michiba vs. Shu Chu in Battle Spiny Lobster and Chen vs Ron Waikei in Battle Pork

14. Chen vs Chiyo Cho (Tofu Battle)

Air Date: 1995-04-07

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

15. Ishinabe vs Tomoyuki Sawaguchi (Flounder Battle)

Air Date: 1995-04-14

16. Sakai vs Kunio Santo (Clam Battle)

Air Date: 1995-04-21

17. Michiba vs Keisuke Tamano (Tilefish Battle)

Air Date: 1995-05-19

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)

18. Kenichi vs Lee Myong Suk (Liver Battle)

Air Date: 1995-05-26

19. Sakai vs Isao Yanagidate (Caviar Battle)

Air Date: 1995-05-12

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

20. Chen vs Elio Orsara (Kajiki Tuna Battle)

Air Date: 1995-05-19

21. Michiba vs Etsuo Joh (Broccoli Battle)

Air Date: 1995-05-26

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

22. Sakai vs Katsuo Ohmiya (Onion Battle)

Air Date: 1995-06-02

23. Sakai vs Kazutaka Okabe (Lamb Battle)

Air Date: 1995-06-09

24. Michiba vs Zeng Mingxing (Blue Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1995-06-16

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)

25. Chen vs Yukihiro Noda (Sardine Battle)

Air Date: 1995-06-23

26. Ishinabe vs Yanagidate Isao (Avocado Battle)

Air Date: 1995-06-30

27. Sakai vs Takayoshi Kawai (Sole Battle)

Air Date: 1995-07-28

28. Sakai vs Haruyoshi Omino (Sweetfish Battle)

Air Date: 1995-07-14

29. Chen vs Li Jinlun (Swallow's Nest Battle)

Air Date: 1995-07-21

30. Sakai vs Shinichi Nagamatsu (Eggplant Battle)

Air Date: 1995-07-28

31. Chen vs Hisama Hirano (Sea Urchin Battle)

Air Date: 1995-08-04

32. Michiba vs Kenji Kaji (Umeboshi Battle)

Air Date: 1995-08-11

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)

33. Michiba and Sakai vs The Cuomo Brothers (Tomato Battle)

Air Date: 1995-08-18

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)

34. Chen vs Yoshiko Takemasa (Short-necked Clam Battle)

Air Date: 1995-08-25

35. Sakai vs Joël Bruant (Salmon Battle)

Air Date: 1995-09-01

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

36. Michiba vs Minoru Noda (Matsutake Mushroom Battle)

Air Date: 1995-09-08

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)

37. Sakai vs Philippe Aubron (Crayfish Battle)

Air Date: 1995-09-15

38. Chen vs Tsuguo Fujiwara (Sea Cucumber Battle)

Air Date: 1995-10-28

39. Chin VS Hagiwara Masahiko (Freshwater Shrimp Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-03

40. Sakai vs Sadaharu Nakajima (Rice Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-10

41. Michiba vs Lin Kunbi (Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-17

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)

42. Michiba vs Lin Kunbi Overtime (Sweet Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-24

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)

43. Chen vs Masahiko Hagiwara (Scampi Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-03

44. Chen vs Kiyotaka Ikegawa (Horsehair Crab Battle Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-10

45. Sakai vs Toshiro Kandagawa (Lotus Root Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-17

100th challenger special

46. Sakai vs Bruno Ménard (Escargot Battle)

Air Date: 1995-11-24

47. Chen vs Sozo Miyamoto (Carp Battle)

Air Date: 1995-12-01

48. Sakai vs Tadamichi Ohta (Octopus Battle)

Air Date: 1995-12-08

49. Sakai vs Philippe Groult (Oyster Battle)

Air Date: 1995-12-15

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

Air Date: 1995-12-22

1995 Mr. Iron Chef tournament round 1

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

Air Date: 1996-01-03

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

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

Air Date: 1996-01-05

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

3. Chen vs Gao Jinyi (Dried Abalone Battle)

Air Date: 1996-01-12

4. Sakai vs Hidetoshi Ushimaru (Curry Powder Battle)

Air Date: 1996-01-19

5. Chen vs Hiroshi Yamanobe (Scorpionfish Battle)

Air Date: 1996-01-26

6. Chen vs Watanabe Yoji (Snapping Turtle Battle)

Air Date: 1996-02-02

7. Sakai vs Tadashi Yanagi (Pear & Chocolate Battle)

Air Date: 1996-02-09

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

8. Sakai vs Jinichi Tateyama (Leek Battle)

Air Date: 1996-02-16

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

9. Chen vs Takaya Nakazawa (Shiitake Mushroom Battle)

Air Date: 1996-02-23

10. Nakamura vs Kiyoshi Suzuki (Foie Gras Battle)

Air Date: 1996-03-01

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

11. Chen vs Tatsujiro Yoshida (Cod Battle)

Air Date: 1996-03-08

12. Sakai vs Senji Osada (Scallop Battle)

Air Date: 1996-03-15

13. Nakamura vs Lin Kunbi (Bell Pepper Battle)

Air Date: 1996-03-22

Rematch battle for chef Lin Kunbi.

14. Chen vs Katsuaki Mori (Spinach Battle)

Air Date: 1996-03-29

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

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

Air Date: 1996-04-05

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

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

Air Date: 1996-04-12

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

17. Nakamura vs. Toyoaki Suganuma (Egg Battle)

Air Date: 1996-04-19

18. Chen vs. He Yewen (Lettuce Battle)

Air Date: 1996-04-26

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

19. Nakamura vs. Katsuko Nanao (Cod Roe Battle)

Air Date: 1996-05-03

20. Chen vs Shunji Morikawa (Pineapple Battle)

Air Date: 1996-05-10

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?

21. Sakai vs Takao Tamotsu (Abalone Battle)

Air Date: 1996-05-17

22. Nakamura vs. Kenji Motai (Udon Battle)

Air Date: 1996-05-24

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.

23. Chen vs Ichio Gotoh (Cuttlefish Battle)

Air Date: 1996-05-31

24. Sakai vs Sonobe Yoshinobu (Salmon Roe Battle)

Air Date: 1996-06-07

The challenger is one of the three best chefs in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. His restaurant has won numerous awards at national competitions. He will be the first challenger from Hokkaido to do battle in Kitchen Stadium. He opened his award winning restaurant at the age of 27. Judges: Takenori Emoto, Hisako Manda, Yukio Hatoyama, Asako Kishi

25. Nakamura vs Son Kangi (Bonito Battle)

Air Date: 1996-06-14

26. Sakai vs Philippe Batton (Bacon Battle)

Air Date: 1996-06-21

27. Nakamura vs Tozawa Hideo (Clam Battle)

Air Date: 1996-06-28

28. Chen vs Nomura Takayuk (Ayu Battle)

Air Date: 1996-07-05

29. Nakamura vs Yamamoto Hideki (Conger Battle)

Air Date: 1996-07-12

30. Sakai vs Uki Yoshimasa (Tuna Battle)

Air Date: 1996-07-19

31. Nakamura vs Toriumi Masaru (Oyster Battle)

Air Date: 1996-07-26

32. Chen vs Yamamoto Takeshi (Pork Battle)

Air Date: 1996-08-02

33. Nakamura vs Thierry Houngues (Caviar Battle)

Air Date: 1996-08-09

34. Chen vs Tsugawa Toshizo (Sea Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1996-08-16

35. Sakai vs Sugawara Ken'ji (Corn Battle)

Air Date: 1996-08-23

The challenger was personally trained in California Cuisine by the legendary Wolfgang Puck. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Chizuru Azuma, Ichiro Zaitsu, Asako Kishi

36. Chen vs. Shinsuke Shimada (Fleshy Prawn Battle)

Air Date: 1996-08-30

The challenger is a famous comedian in Japan. He is also known to be one of the most skilled chefs among entertainers. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Keiko Saito, Ichiro Zaizu Asako Kishi

37. Nakamura vs Uetake Toshimasa (Peach Battle)

Air Date: 1996-09-06

38. Sakai vs So Choumei (Softcrab Battle)

Air Date: 1996-09-13

39. Nakamura vs Endo Tokuo (Mackerel Pike Battle)

Air Date: 1996-09-20

40. Chen vs Kashiwabara Takeo (Wax Gourd Battle)

Air Date: 1996-10-04

The challenger leads the kitchen of a hotel on the island of Okinawa. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Kazuko Kato, Hideki Takahashi, Asako Kishi

41. Beijing Special: Chen vs. Son-So (Chicken Battle)

Air Date: 1996-10-11

Features chefs from each region with a battle between Son vs. Chen.

42. Nakamura vs Fujita Shin (Soba Battle)

Air Date: 1996-10-18

43. Nakamura vs Ogusu Ryuichi (Chestnut Battle)

Air Date: 1996-10-25

44. Chen vs Daniela Ozik (Mushroom Battle)

Air Date: 1996-11-01

45. Sakai vs Yamaoka Hiroshi (Chinese Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1996-11-08

46. Sakai vs Wein Nishi (Apple Battle)

Air Date: 1996-11-15

The challenger is the head of a very successful restaurant in New York. The New York Times gave his restaurant 3 stars. His grandfather is Japanese, and spent a lot of time talking to young Wayne about the culture of Japan. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Mayuko Takata, Tekenori Emoto, Yukio Hattori

47. Nakamura vs Kuroki Kenjiro (Angler Battle)

Air Date: 1996-11-22

The challenger is the head chef for several hotel kitchens. He lives near the largest fishing seaport in all of Japan. He uses his speed in the kitchen to overcome his small stature. He is known as Ushiwakamaru. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Nagisa Katahira, Tenmai Kanoh, Asako Kishi

48. Nakamura vs Miyashiro Kiyoshi (Cow's Tongue Battle)

Air Date: 1996-11-29

The challenger is the owner/chef at a restaurant known as a favorite of Japanese author Shusaku Endo. He trained in France for five years before returning to Japan. He was unhappy with the direction of French cuisine in Japan, so he opened his own restaurant. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Megumi Ooishi, Takao Horiuchi, Asako Kishi

49. Chen vs Ishizaki Yukio (Garlic Battle)

Air Date: 1996-12-06

50. Sakai vs Suzuki Yoshio (Orange Battle)

Air Date: 1996-12-13

51. Nakamura vs Belnare Lebrance (Gull Battle)

Air Date: 1996-12-20

52. Nakamura vs. Michiba (Pork, Sweet Potato, and Octopus Battle)

Air Date: 1996-12-31

New Year's Special: 100 judges taste osechi (new year food)

1. Sakai vs Kasahara Hiroshi (Rice Cake Battle)

Air Date: 1997-01-10

2. Chen vs Michifude Hiroshi (Dried Scallop Battle)

Air Date: 1997-01-17

The challenger is the 25-year-old son of a prominent Chinese cuisine chef whose restaurant "Kochouran" in Kobe was demolished during the huge earthquake back in 1995. It's been 2 years by the time they taped this, and the chairman, while disappointed that the chef of Kochouran permanently quit the business when his restaurant was destroyed, was pleased to find the chef's son as the head chef of Canton Shuka "Ten" in Kobe. Kaga's theme announcement expressed confidence that Kobe was indeed building its "pillars" or foundations firmly after the disaster. The word for "pillar" in Japanese is "hashira". This immediately brings to mind "kai-bashira" (shell-pillars, a common idiom for the adductor muscle of bivalves). But not just any kaibashira - no, they had to be the most prized "kaibashira" in Chinese cuisine - dried scallops, also known as ganbei or conpoy. Judges: Eimoto Takinori (Baseball?), Megumi Oishi (Newscaster), Zaitsu Ichiro (Actor?), Asako Kishi (Critic)

3. Sakai vs Rory Kennedy (Rabbit Battle)

Air Date: 1997-01-24

The challenger is the head chef of a London restaurant that was established in 1798. He is a master of Gibier (wild game) cuisine. Only four months after this episode originally aired in Japan, Chef Kennedy died after a fall in his restaurant.

4. Sakai vs Rory Kennedy (Pigeon Battle) Overtime

Air Date: 1997-01-31

It is only the second overtime battle in the history of Kitchen Stadium. The chefs used most of the supplies and ingredients in the first battle, so they must be creative during this 30-minute overtime cook-off.

5. Nakamura vs Morieda Hiroyoshi (Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1997-02-07

6. Chen vs Kou Houkou (Rice Battle)

Air Date: 1997-02-14

The challenger is Premier Chef in China. He is an expert in Fujian Cuisine. This is a battle between two outstanding Chinese chefs.

7. Sakai vs Shimada Tetsuya (Truffle Battle)

Air Date: 1997-02-21

Club Mistral is back with yet another challenger for Sakai. Shimada trained in France for 5 years before returning to Japan. He hopes to show that the new generation of French chefs in Japan is ready to take over. Can Sakai fight back the challenge?

8. Nakamura vs Yamazaki Tateo (Nattou Battle)

Air Date: 1997-02-28

9. Sakai vs Jyo Etsuo (Wine Battle)

Air Date: 1997-03-07

10. Chen vs Wakiya Yuji (Papaya Battle)

Air Date: 1997-03-14

11. Nakamura vs Mera Takashi (Seaweed Battle)

Air Date: 1997-03-21

12. Sakai vs Kitami Hiroyuki (Honey Battle)

Air Date: 1997-03-28

13. Nakamura vs You Koukan (Hanami Festival)

Air Date: 1997-04-11

This battle does not have a theme ingredient, but it does have a theme. Hanami, or flower viewing, is the theme of this battle. The challenger is a Chinese chef. He heads a Chinese restaurant with a long history. The tasting area is set up outside under the Sakura. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Asano Yuko, Eiji Bando, Masumi Okada, Asako Kishi

14. Sakai vs Okumura Shinzou (Bamboo Shoot Battle)

Air Date: 1997-04-18

15. Chen vs Ootsuki Chihiro (Tomato Battle)

Air Date: 1997-04-25

The challenger is a woman who specializes in the cuisine of Spain. This is a very close battle that is decided by one point. Judges: Tenmei Kano, Minako Tanaka (Actress), Tsurutato Kataoka (Actor), Asako Kishi (Critic)

16. Sakai vs Sasaki Kiyoyasu (Perch Battle)

Air Date: 1997-05-02

The challenger trained under the legendary French chef Paul Bocuse. (I think he may have been the first Japanese chef that Bocuse trained.) Judges: Tenmei Kanoh (Photographer), Sayuri Ishikawa (Actress), Sanshi Katsura (??), Asako Kishi (Critic)

17. Nakamura vs Azumaya Norio (Pork Battle)

Air Date: 1997-05-09

The challenger was once a chef at Nadaman, the restaurant where Nakamura currently works. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Kishimoto Kayoko, Hideki Takahashi, Asako Kishi

18. Nakamura vs Jillian Harst (Ostrich Battle)

Air Date: 1997-05-16

Despite having had challengers from around the world, Chairman Kaga had not welcomed a chef from Australia. The challenger is the owner/chef at Indigo. She began her training at age 19. At age 31, she opened her own restaurant. She wants the world to know that Australian cooking is more than just prawns on the barbecue and beer in the hand. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Chizuru Azuma, Masaki Kanda, Asako Kishi

19. Chen vs Takagi Masao (Duck's Egg Battle)

Air Date: 1997-05-23

Kitchen Stadium has been open for a little more than three and a half years. The last of the original Iron Chefs is Iron Chef Chinese Chen Kenichi. The challenger excels at Shanhai style cooking. He challenger began his training at the age of 15. He feels he is the best Japanese Shanghai style chef. What better ingredient for competing styles of Chinese cuisine than the Chinese delicacy Pitan (thousand-year egg)? Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Lisa Junna, Chai Ran, Joji Yamamoto

20. Sakai vs Germano Orsara (Ham Battle)

Air Date: 1997-05-30

The brother of the challenger did battle against Chen in a Swordfish battle two years earlier. It is an Italian vs. French battle. Judges: Tamio Kageyama (Novelist), Keiko Saito (Actress), Tatsuo Umemiya (Actor), Asako Kishi (Critic)

21. Nakamura vs Sakane Hisahito (Sea Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1997-06-06

The challenger is the number two man at one of Kandagawa Honten, the main restaurant of Toshiro Kandagawa. He is only 27 years old. Judges: Emoto Takenori, Reiko Takashima, Tsurutaro Kataoka, Asako Kishi

22. Kobe vs Hagiwara Masahiko (Pasta Battle)

Air Date: 1997-06-13

Debut battle of Iron Chef Italian Masahiko Kobe. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Masumi Okada (Actor), Kazuko Katoh (Actress), Asako Kishi

23. Sakai vs Sato Norio (Amberjack - Kampachi Battle)

Air Date: 1997-06-20

The challenger lives on the Izu Peninsula, west of Tokyo. It is a region known for its hot springs and abundant fish. Of course, his dishes are full of the flavors of the sea. Judges: Shinichiro Kuriimoto, Akiko Yano, Kunihiko Mitamura, Asako Kishi

24. Chen vs Syu Kenchu (Akahata - Grouper Battle)

Air Date: 1997-06-27

The challenger is a top chef from Hong Kong. He has won many cooking competitions. Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Saya Takagi, Chai Lam, Asako Kishi

25. Nakamura vs Kashima Masami (Prawn Battle)

Air Date: 1997-07-04

The challenger trained in France, but he now specializes in Vietnamese cooking. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Keiko Saito, Hideki Takahasi, Asako Kishi

26. Sakai vs Ishikawa Toshiyuki (Sea Urchin Battle)

Air Date: 1997-07-11

The challenger started training to be a chef at the age of 15. He earns praise from both Iron Chef Chen and Dr. Yukio Hattori. The Chairman calls him the future of Chinese cooking in Japan. Judges: Takenori Emoto, Megumi Oishi, Yasosuke Bando, Asako Kishi

27. Chen vs Matsuno Yoshikazu (Mantis Shrimp - Shako Battle)

Air Date: 1997-07-18

The challenger is a sushi chef from Yokohama who is a favorite of famous athletes and entertainers. He entered the sushi world at age the age of 16. Chairman Kaga calls him a sushi artisan. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Kayoko Kishimoto, Ichiro Zaitsu, Asako Kishi

28. Kobe vs Stephan Tabacchi (Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1997-07-25

This is the second battle in Kitchen Stadium for the new Iron Chef Italian, Masahiko Kobe. He lost his first time in action, and the Chairman wants to see if he has what it takes to win as an Iron Chef. The challenger has cooked for many famous celebrities. He began cooking at age 13. He headed the kitchen at a hotel restaurant in Italy before leaving to head a restaurant in Japan. He arrived in Japan just two months before this battle. Judges: Tamio Kageyama, Hitomi Takahashi (Actress), Sunplaza Nakano (Musician), Asako Kishi (Critic)

29. Sakai vs Toyoshima Seiji (Milk Battle)

Air Date: 1997-08-01

The challenger is the fourth sent by Club Mistral to take on Iron Chef Sakai. The chef operates a restaurant in Ginza. I think the ladies of Ginza really like his dishes. It has been three years since Club Mistral sent their first challenger to Kitchen Stadium. We will have the theme ingredient again that was used by the chairman Miyamoto. Milk is the theme and the Chairman arranges for two cows to be brought into Kitchen Stadium so the chefs can have the freshest possible theme ingredient. Judges: Takenori Emoto, Naomi Kawashima, Takao Horiuchi, Asako Kishi

30. Nakamura Chin vs Sakai Kobe (Watermelon Battle)

Air Date: 1997-08-08

It is summertime, and Chairman Kaga wants to celebrate with a summer festival. The Iron Chefs are divided into two teams: Asia Team (Chen and Nakamura) and Europe Team (Sakai and Kobe). Kaga asks, What theme do I choose for a dream tag match? That summer fruit. Watermelon. Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Keiko Saito, Tatuo Meidaka, Asako Kishi

31. Chen vs Souseiko Kawaguchi (Eggplant Battle)

Air Date: 1997-08-15

It is time for the Obon Festival in Japan. (It traditionally takes place in mid-August) The challenger is a buddhist monk who prepares vegetarian meals. She is the younger sister of the challenger from Season 2, Sakai vs. Sotetsu Fujii in the Yam Battle Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Harumi Inoue, Kotaro Satomi, Asako Kishi

32. Sakai vs Androsoni Pietro (Melon Battle)

Air Date: 1997-08-22

33. Nakamura vs Kojima Koten (Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1997-08-29

The challenger is the number one French chef on Kyushu. He opened his own restaurant at the age of 26. Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Senri Yamabuki, Tetsuya Bessho, Yoshiko Ishii

34. Nakamura vs Kojima Koten (Flatfish Battle) Overtime

Air Date: 1997-09-05

The challenger is the number one French chef on Kyushu. He opened his own restaurant at the age of 26. The previous battle between these two chefs was declared a no contest by The Chairman. Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Hiroko Moriguchi, Gitan Ootsuru, Yoshiko Ishii

35. Sakai vs Nakajima Toshiyuki (Cow's Cheek Battle)

Air Date: 1997-09-12

The challenger has declined many invitations from Chairman Kaga to do battle in Kitchen Stadium. He heads a French restaurant in Aoyama, Tokyo. He trained in top restaurants in France. It’s a French on French battle as Toshiyuki Nakajima takes on Iron Chef Sakai in Battle Beef Cheek. To add to the tension, apparently Sakai’s restaurant is not far from the challenger’s.

36. Chen vs Igarashi Miyuki (Cucumber Battle)

Air Date: 1997-09-26

This challenger is the youngest ever to enter Kitchen Stadium. At the young age of 22, she already heads the kitchen of a bustling Chinese restaurant in Tokyo. She was only 7 when she began helping her father in the kitchen that she eventually took over. She feels that a chef’s job is more important than that of a doctor. Once again, Chen is called upon to take on a female challenger.

37. Kobe vs Imai Fujio (Matsutake Battle)

Air Date: 1997-10-03

The challenger’s restaurant is often visited by Crown Prince Akihito, Princess Masako and Princess Kiko. He started his culinary training at the age of 15. He became a head chef at 24. The Chairman spent 1 million yen on the theme ingredient for these young chefs. (That’s a little over $12,000 now, about $8,200 back then.)

38. 1997 World Cup

Air Date: 1997-10-10

1997 "World Cup" tournament in Arashiyama. Liu Xikun vs. Nakamura (Beef) and Alain Passard vs. Patrick Clark (Homard Lobster). The winners face each other in a Foie Gras Battle.

39. Chen vs Nagasaka Matsuo (Spareribs Battle)

Air Date: 1997-10-17

Judges: Shinichiro Kurimoto, Yoshizumi Ishihara, Keiko Saito, Asako Kishi

40. Sakai vs Goto Masashi (Prawn Battle)

Air Date: 1997-10-24

41. Kobe vs Seki Yuji (Chestnut Battle)

Air Date: 1997-10-31

Iron Chef Kobe is the Prince of Pasta. His challenger tonight is the Prince of Chinese cuisine. Judges: Tenmei Kanoh, Kazuko Kato, Koki Mitani, Chieko Honma

42. Nakamura vs Azuma Keiji (Lamb Battle)

Air Date: 1997-11-14

43. Chen vs Matsushima Toru (Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1997-11-21

44. Kobe vs Takahashi Kazunari (Milt Battle)

Air Date: 1997-11-28

45. Kobe vs Takahashi Kazunari (Shrimp Battle) Over Time

Air Date: 1997-12-05

46. Nakamura vs Moris Guilett (Scallop Battle)

Air Date: 1997-12-12

47. Kobe vs Takagi Yasumasa (Strawberry Battle)

Air Date: 1997-12-19

48. Nakamura vs Kandagawa Toshiro (Bony Parts Battle)

Air Date: 1997-12-26

1. Chen vs Inoue Akihiko (Salmon Battle)

Air Date: 1998-01-09

2. Kobe vs Fukazu Yasuhiro (Deer Battle)

Air Date: 1998-01-16

3. Sakai vs Matsumoto Yoshimasa (Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1998-01-23

4. Chen vs Tou Choki (Black Tiger Battle)

Air Date: 1998-01-30

5. Sakai vs Sato Fumiaki (Radish Battle)

Air Date: 1998-02-06

6. Nakamura Retirement Special

Air Date: 1998-02-13

Nakamura's final fight is with Hattori Yukio in Battle Tuna.

7. Nakamura's Retirement Special (Tuna Battle) Part II

Air Date: 1998-02-20

Nakamura's final fight is with Hattori Yukio in Battle Tuna.

8. Morimoto vs Hirayama Yukio (Red Snapper Battle)

Air Date: 1998-02-27

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

9. Sakai vs Kondo Motohito (Girls' Festival)

Air Date: 1998-03-06

10. Kobe vs. Mario Frittoli (Broccoli Battle)

Air Date: 1998-03-13

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.

11. Morimoto vs Kimura Masayoshi (Rice Battle)

Air Date: 1998-04-04

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?

12. Sakai vs Tomoji Ichikawa (Guinea Fowl Battle)

Air Date: 1998-04-10

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

13. Chen vs Harada Mitsuro (Spanish Mackerel Battle)

Air Date: 1998-04-17

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?

14. Chen vs Shimamura Takashi (Pen Shell Battle)

Air Date: 1998-04-24

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?

15. Morimoto vs. Tetsuo Hagiwara (Bamboo Shoots Battle)

Air Date: 1998-05-01

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.

16. Kobe vs. Yosei Watanabe (Mango Battle)

Air Date: 1998-05-08

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

17. Morimoto vs. Yasuhiko Habuchi (Asparagus Battle)

Air Date: 1998-05-15

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.

18. Chen vs Liang Shuqing (Pork Belly Battle)

Air Date: 1998-05-22

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

19. Chen vs Liang Shuqing (Konnyaku Battle) Overtime

Air Date: 1998-05-29

Battle Arum Root.

20. Sakai vs Kobayashi Kumiko (Mishima Beef Battle)

Air Date: 1998-06-05

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.

21. Morimoto vs Kenichi Miyanaga (Sweetfish Battle)

Air Date: 1998-06-12

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?

22. Chen vs Kentaro (Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1998-06-19

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.

23. Kobe vs. Yasuhiro Sasajima (Eggplant Battle)

Air Date: 1998-06-26

24. Morimoto vs. Takaji Yoshida (Tofu Battle)

Air Date: 1998-07-03

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

25. Sakai vs Shimokawa Shuzo (Jinhua Pork Battle)

Air Date: 1998-07-10

26. Chen vs. Junichi Itoh (Yogurt Battle)

Air Date: 1998-07-17

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.

27. Morimoto vs Kajimoto Takeshi (Abalone Battle)

Air Date: 1997-07-24

28. Kobe vs Sakai Miyoko (Blue Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1998-07-31

29. Morimoto vs Hirokazu Handa (Giant Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1998-08-07

30. Sakai vs Watabe Masanobu (Peach Battle)

Air Date: 1998-08-14

31. Chen vs Miyazawa Kaoru (Carp Battle)

Air Date: 1998-08-21

32. 2000th Dish: French vs Chinese Part I

Air Date: 1998-08-28

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

33. 2000th Dish: French vs Chinese Part II

Air Date: 1998-09-04

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

34. Sakai vs Kyonori Miura (Squid Battle)

Air Date: 1998-09-11

Sakai battles the "conjurer of garlic".

35. Chen vs Maruyama Hideki (Sardine Battle)

Air Date: 1998-09-18

36. Morimoto vs. Shuichi Fuji (Salmon Battle)

Air Date: 1998-09-25

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.

37. Kobe vs. Shinya Tasaki (Tuna Battle)

Air Date: 1998-10-02

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

38. Sakai vs Ron Siegel (Lobster Battle)

Air Date: 1998-10-09

An American chef enters Kitchen Stadium for a lobster battle.

39. Chen vs Kagata Kyoko (Veal Battle)

Air Date: 1998-10-16

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.

40. Morimoto vs Tatsutoshi Kumamoto (Natto Battle)

Air Date: 1998-10-23

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.

41. Kobe vs. Kensuke Sakai (Pumpkin Battle)

Air Date: 1998-10-30

42. Sakai vs Kazumi Nagayama (Saury Battle)

Air Date: 1998-11-06

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.

43. Chen vs. Hisao Yaginuma (Shanghai Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1998-11-13

Chen defends his honor in this Bok Choy battle.

44. Kobe vs. Takatsugu Sasaoka (Maitake Battle)

Air Date: 1998-11-20

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.

45. Morimoto vs. Marco Molinari (Porcini Battle)

Air Date: 1998-11-27

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

46. Sakai vs Hazama Mitsuo (Duck Battle)

Air Date: 1998-12-04

47. Kobe vs Yoneda Hiromichi (Octopus Battle)

Air Date: 1998-12-11

This octopus showdown has everyone up in arms.

48. Chen vs Mitsuo Suganuma (Shark Fin Battle)

Air Date: 1998-12-18

49. Morimoto vs. Jiro Ogue (Turkey Battle)

Air Date: 1998-12-25

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.

1. Chen vs Xie Huaxian (Lobster Battle)

Air Date: 1999-01-08

2. Sakai vs Koei Kamimura (Codfish Battle)

Air Date: 1999-01-15

3. Kobe vs. Costantino Gemmoli (Bell Pepper Battle)

Air Date: 1999-01-22

4. Morimoto vs. Hiroyuki Hakogi (Yellowtail Battle)

Air Date: 1999-01-29

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.

5. Morimoto vs Tetsuji Iio (King Crab Battle)

Air Date: 1999-02-05

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.

6. Kobe vs Tsujiguchi Hironobu (Banana Battle)

Air Date: 1999-02-12

7. Sakai vs Senba Toshiya (Oyster Battle)

Air Date: 1999-02-19

8. Chen vs Asao Ryozo (Sturgeon Battle)

Air Date: 1999-02-26

9. Morimoto Retrospective Part I

Air Date: 1999-03-05

The first hour of the Morimoto Retrospective: Michiba & Morimoto tour New York City

10. Morimoto Retrospective Part II: Morimoto vs Nakamura Komei (Egg Battle)

Air Date: 1999-03-12

The second hour of the Morimoto retrospective.

11. Sakai vs Koji Hosogai (Oxtail Battle)

Air Date: 1999-03-19

12. Morimoto vs Masahara Seiya (Anglerfish Battle)

Air Date: 1999-03-26

13. Chen vs Cui Yufen (Chinese Cabbage Battle)

Air Date: 1999-04-02

14. Sakai vs. Tohru Komori (Udon Battle)

Air Date: 1999-04-09

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.

15. Kobe vs. Franco Canzoniere (Tomato Battle)

Air Date: 1999-04-16

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

16. Morimoto vs. Yusuke Yamashita (Cod Roe Battle)

Air Date: 1999-04-23

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.

17. Morimoto vs. Yamashita Yusuke Overtime (Scallions Battle)

Air Date: 1999-04-30

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

18. Chen vs Okubo Takeshi (Bean Sprout Battle)

Air Date: 1999-05-07

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?

19. Sakai vs Michel Husser (Lamb Battle)

Air Date: 1999-05-14

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.

20. Chen vs Spano Stelvio (Piglet Battle)

Air Date: 1999-05-21

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.

21. Indonesian Expedition Part I

Air Date: 1999-05-28

Japanese Iron Chef Emeritus Michiba and Japanese Iron Chef Morimoto travel to Indonesia

22. Indonesian Expedition Part II

Air Date: 1999-06-04

Japanese Iron Chef Emeritus Michiba and Japanese Iron Chef Morimoto travel to Indonesia

23. Kobe vs Makoto Osada (Giant Lobster Battle)

Air Date: 1999-06-11

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.

24. Morimoto vs Nakazawa Keiji (Sushi Battle)

Air Date: 1999-06-18

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.

25. Sakai vs Makio Isao (Black Pig Battle)

Air Date: 1999-06-25

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

26. Morimoto vs Michael Noble (Potato Battle)

Air Date: 1999-07-02

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

27. Chen vs Tateno Yuji (Sea Urchin Roe Battle)

Air Date: 1999-07-09

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?

28. Morimoto vs Tanigawa Yoshimi (Pike Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1999-07-16

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.

29. Kobe vs. Shoji Yamaoka (Jumbo Mushroom Battle)

Air Date: 1999-07-23

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

30. Chen vs Dominique Corby (Foie Gras Battle)

Air Date: 1999-07-30

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.

31. Chen vs. Dominique Corby Overtime (Asparagus Battle)

Air Date: 1999-08-06

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

32. Kobe vs Sakai Hiroki (Conger Eel Battle)

Air Date: 1999-08-13

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?

33. Morimoto vs Watanabe Akira (Cuttlefish Battle)

Air Date: 1999-08-20

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

34. Sakai vs Yoshihide Koga (Stingray Battle)

Air Date: 1999-08-27

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

35. Morimoto vs Shigematsu Ryozo (Sea Bass Battle)

Air Date: 1999-09-03

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

Air Date: 1999-09-10

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

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

Air Date: 1999-09-17

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

38. King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 1

Air Date: 1999-09-24

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.

39. King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 2

Air Date: 1999-10-01

40. King Of Iron Chefs Tournament Final 3

Air Date: 1999-10-08

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.