I've been aching for something lately. I'm not sure why, but maybe its because I haven't had it in a while. I know its weird, but, honestly, I really love it. I'm talking about takoyaki.

For those that don't know what it is, its fried octopus balls. Now, before your mind wanders into the gutter, I guess you could call it the Japanese equivalent to a corndog. Except instead of a hotdog in the center, its a piece of octopus. Sounds appetizing, doesn't it? What with its crispy outside, tender middle, and chewy center. All covered in spicy mayo.

Not a lot of people outside of the Japanese enjoy these, but those that do can get pretty fanatical about it. I should know, I'm one of them. I guess its the idea of eating an invertebrate in waffle batter doesn't have a universal appeal. Well, more for me.

That is, so long i can find a place that actually makes them. I've lived in Seattle for about seven years, now, and I haven't had some in just about that long. I'm dying, here! Any help on locating some would be greatly appreciated. Of course, that would just inevitably lead to the Great Takoyaki Challenge!