[Food Songs] Popular Japanese songs that use names of foods

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

When everyday familiar things are chosen as the subject of a song, it somehow makes us feel a sense of closeness all by itself.

If a song’s title or theme is food, it’s easier to picture, isn’t it?

This time, under the theme of Japanese music related to food, we’ve put together songs where the very title features food or drink, or the lyrics are connected to food!

From the latest hits to timeless classics and hidden favorites, please enjoy these J-POP gems that might just make your stomach growl.

[Food Songs] Popular Japanese Songs That Use Food Names (71–80)

Song of CilantroUtada Hikaru

“Song of Coriander” (Superorganism Rework)

Song of CilantroUtada Hikaru

Cilantro has been attracting attention in recent years.

It’s delicious, but many people find its distinctive smell off-putting.

The song “The Cilantro Song” takes cilantro as its theme.

It isn’t a metaphor for anything—throughout the track, it expresses a straightforward love for cilantro.

Hikaru Utada, who sings it, is said to have come up with the idea because she absolutely loves cilantro.

There’s also a collaboration video with the popular character Daifuku-kun, so be sure to check it out.

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Strawberry ShortcakesFujifaburikku

Strawberry Shortcakes

Strawberry ShortcakesFujifaburikku

Fujifabric captivates listeners with gentle vocals and profound lyrical themes.

When it comes to songs that feature food, “Strawberry Shortcakes” comes to mind.

This track portrays a couple in a restaurant sharing strawberry shortcake.

In the lyrics, the strawberry shortcake is depicted as a symbol for various things.

The lyrics are a bit more mature, but if you’re curious, be sure to check them out.

You can also enjoy the song by exploring interpretations of the lyrics’ meaning.

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strawberryyuzu

Yuzu, strawberry

strawberryyuzu

This is a single released by Yuzu in 2009.

Despite its cute title, “Ichigo,” the poppy outfits, and a chorus that’s very catchy and easy to remember, the lyrics are shockingly embarrassing to sing in front of others—something you wouldn’t expect from such a bright, pop image.

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Let’s eatKoresawa

Koresawa 'Itadakimasu' [Music Video]

Let's eatKoresawa

Food you eat with someone you love tastes extra delicious, doesn’t it? This is a love song that brims with single-hearted devotion to the other person.

It’s a track by Koresawa, a singer-songwriter from Osaka Prefecture, released as a digital single in 2019.

A warm, heartfelt ballad that makes you feel happy just by listening.

It’s a lovely piece that fully showcases her charming, down-to-earth worldview.

Please give it a listen with your significant other—whether you’re a couple, married, or with someone special.

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frozen mandarin orangeGTP

frozen mandarin orange

frozen mandarin orangeGTP

This song gives the impression of being widely known and is often played in supermarkets, but it’s actually by a group called DTP.

Many people probably can’t get it out of their heads once they hear the lyrics that make you chuckle and the instantly memorable melody.

Momoiro Clover has also covered it.

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PeperoncinoLucky Kilimanjaro

Peperoncino

PeperoncinoLucky Kilimanjaro

There’s a song that not only features food but even depicts the cooking process.

It’s called “Peperoncino.” The track is by the electronic music band Lucky Kilimanjaro.

In the song, the steps of making peperoncino are used as a metaphor for taking on life’s challenges and pursuing goals.

It might sound hard to imagine, but it turns into an encouraging anthem that gives a gentle push to anyone who’s stumbled.

The melody has a calm, city-pop vibe, making it a great listen for nighttime or whenever you want to relax.

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MarshmallowOkuda Tamio

Tamio Okuda “Mashimaro” (Official Music Video)

MarshmallowOkuda Tamio

This was Tamio Okuda’s 10th single and was also used in a commercial.

The music video even features scenes parodying that ad.

It seems the song was created starting from the title, and a shocking truth is revealed at the very end of the lyrics.

Kaela Kimura’s cover of the song also drew attention.

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