Move over, Iron Chef: Makiko (Maki) Itoh reigns supreme in the food blog world. A native of Tokyo, erstwhile resident of New York and England, she ultimately became an expat in Switzerland, crossroads of Europe. Her blog, i was just really very hungry, is one of the most revered food blogs in the world (and #1 in Switzerland!). Maki graciously took some time out of her busy schedule to tell us a little about gender politics, finding a taste of Japanese amidst the Alps and finding the best shopping in the world.

When you’re not musing on the more delicious things in life, what  do you do?
In my working life I work at a web and forms/application design and development company. In my spare time I like to make things, travel whenever and wherever I can, and browse flea markets and vintage/antique shops.

You’re truly a citizen of the world, born in Tokyo and now in Switzerland via New York and England. How does that global view influence your tastes when it comes to food and products?
It makes me very nostalgic for things from where I used to live  (Japanese stationery! New York bagels!), but also makes me appreciate  the good and unique aspects of where I am. For instance, Switzerland  has some terrific modern design and architecture, and of course the natural beauty is out of this world.

...continued: Interview: Maki Itoh from i was just really very hungry