May You Have Delicious Meals

May You Have Delicious Meals by Junko Takase is a sharp and observant novel that explores the complexities of office life through the theme of food. Set in a workplace in Saitama, the story follows three colleagues with very different relationships to eating. Nitani, who prefers convenience and dislikes the fuss around food, often relies on instant noodles. Ashikawa, always eager to please, tries to connect with others by bringing in homemade treats. Then there’s Oshio, outspoken and carefree, who becomes Nitani’s drinking companion.

As their interactions unfold, the novel examines workplace dynamics, personal dissatisfaction, and the social expectations tied to food and conformity. Takase’s writing offers a satirical yet thoughtful take on modern office culture, capturing both its absurdities and its quiet, everyday struggles.