Conbini Boys (Conbini Boys đŁđ)
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| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Feb 2022 | White Day, Asian Cuisine, and Famichiki Fuel | 00:33:56 | |
Itâs a jam packed weak at the conbini. With Valentineâs Day coming to a close, we look ahead to White Day, and also 7-11âs Asian Gurume Fair. Matt reviews a new chicken sandwich from a fast-food place in the states, and to close it out, we read a story about how Famichiki grease is being used to power public buses. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 04 May 2022 | Critical Infrastructure | 00:40:31 | |
This week, weâre happy to introduce our brand new Conbini Newsletter. We fill you in on the good news, and then discuss a recent experiment where certain conbinis have opened their bathrooms up to the public. We check out an Okinawan themed karaagekun, talk burgers, curry ramen, and American dogs, and finally Mike catches us up on Family Martâs attempt at the egg McMuffin. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 04 Nov 2021 | Merry Christmas from the Conbini | 00:43:07 | |
In this weekâs episode, we take a look at the Christmas menu lineup from FamilyMart, Lawson, and 7-11. Mike reviews the PariPari chicken. And we fall in love with a pie cake hybrid from 7-11. Christmas Lineups FamilyMart Lawson 7-11 Matt's Featured Item #1 Matt's Featured Item #2 Mike's Featured Item #1 Mike's Featured Item #2 Chiki Wars Garlic Butter Karaage-kun Crunky Hot Chili Chicken Cheese-in Chicken and Crisps Winners and Losers Mike's Winner Matt's Winner Mike's Loser Matt's Loser Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/i-2aVKkz3ts Read dumb tweets: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 Oct 2021 | A Celebration of Ramen | 00:41:35 | |
In this week's episode we check in on Mike's position in the Famichiki Tournament. Lawson launches a nationwide celebration of ramen. The scoreboard heats up with Kimetsu no Yaiba items. And we look at a cake sandwich from 7-11. Lawson Ramen Festival Chiki Wars Winners and Losers YouTube and Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 22 Jul 2020 | 7-11's Prolific New Item Output and Weiner Wars | 00:39:50 | |
In this weekâs episode, Mike and I once again examine the prolific number of new items out of the konbini - this time at 7-11. We get into the Chiki Wars with updates on Lawsonâs Nice Cheese Grand Prix and a shocking new big chiki out of 7-11. We also dive into a Weiner War between Lawson, 7-11, and FamilyMart, then report on big news concerning plastic bags at the konbini. Letâs get started.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 28 Oct 2020 | A Family Mart Christmas Tale | 00:35:24 | |
On this week's podcast, we round out our review of Christmas preorders at the conbini, finishing up with a look at Family Mart. We take a look at a chiki from Ministop, pick out our winners and losers of the week, share some conbini resources, and then take a look at Ministop and their game-changing "partner contracts" with conbini franchise owners. Video version here: Conbini Resources: Â Â Super Salary Man (@salariedman_s) Konbini Watch (@mbmelodies) Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 11 May 2022 | Buon Appetito Viva Italiano | 00:27:12 | |
In this weekâs episode, we discuss 7-11âs Trattoria Open campaign â a celebration of Italian cuisine. The chiki wars heat back up with smoked fried chicken. We stare down a spam sandwich from Lawson and Mike reviews the Super Chuhai from FamilyMart. Â
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Jun 2021 | Top 3 Overrated Conbini Items | 00:46:23 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt share their top 3 most overrated items. Mike goes off on products claiming to contain a half-day's worth of vegetables. Lawson comes out with a dessert haul for the ages. And Mike celebrates the new cheese-in famichiki Our Overrated Items Winners and Losers What's the call on the haul? At the Gemba Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0uWD1hzXPXw Join the convo on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 01 Jul 2020 | It's Getting Hot: The Conbini Boys Share Shocking Reviews of the Famichiki | 00:27:36 | |
In this weekâs episode the Conbini Boys kickoff with Lawsonâs Nice Cheese Grand Prix. Then they engage in some heated discussion around other peopleâs reviews of the Famichiki. The Spicy Commentator is back to review the Basque Cheese Choco Pie. Mike shares his review of FamilyMartâs Karamucho Famichiki introduced last week, followed by an introduction of two new items: the Mango and Passion fruit Zeitaku Shibori canned cocktail and Lawsonâs Rare Cheese Jelly. Mike and Matt close out with big news - Lawson will begin selling 500 yen bags of vegetables at 15,000 stores.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 May 2020 | Behind the Scenes: The Anxiety of Choosing Top 3 Conbini Items | 00:04:13 | |
In their first Behind the Scenes bonus, Mike and Matt discuss the anxiety of choosing their top 3 favorite conbini items just before kicking off Episode 6. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 15 Jun 2022 | 7-11 Says 'Aloha' | 00:44:28 | |
In this weekâs episode Mike and Matt take a trip to Hawaii with 7-11. Mike wonders whether itâs safe to eat shelled shrimp. And Matt reviews his local Dunkin Donuts following its renovation. Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Subscribe to the newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EpP7cWDPLKw Buy us a chiki: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 22 Jun 2022 | Conbini Pick 3: Main Dish, Beverage, Snack | 00:41:00 | |
This week, we take a look at some replies to a tweet that asked you to choose your go-to main dish, beverage, and snack from the conbini. In the winners and losers, we both take aim at the question of âwhat is a good summer item?â Finally, we investigate Family Martâs new style of store, otherwise known at the Famima concept. Watch us on YouTube Check out the Newsletter See dumb stuff on Twitter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 25 Nov 2020 | The Conbini Tournament | 00:37:33 | |
This week is episode 30, and it's a big one! For the next six weeks we're going to be holding the first ever Conbini Tournament, where we try to crown the king of the conbini. We talk about the upcoming tournament, take a look at some new items and the chiki wars, and then hear from a caller who shares a memory from their first trip to the conbini. 2:34 - Chiki Wars 9:28 - The Scoreboard 10:30 - Mike's Loser 13:10 - Matt's Loser 15:17 - Mike's Winner 18:24 - Matt's Winner 20:48 - Main Story: The Conbini Tournament 28:36 - At the Gemba with Mike 32:27 - Conbini Memory Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Feb 2022 | Back and Better Than Ever | 00:33:43 | |
Happy New Year everyone! Weâre back after a very long break. We talk about what we were doing while we were off, and then jump right back into the conbini, where we look at Ehomaki and Valentines day. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 03 May 2020 | Lawson's Mayo Onigiri Regional Tournament | 00:31:10 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt take a deep into the conbini's spectacular regional, seasonal, and limited edition culture. Lawson's is kicking off a two-week long mayonnaise-themed onigiri (rice ball) tournament. Who's is going to make it out on top? Strong contenders like Sendai's cow tongue and miso-mayo onigiri and Okinawa's taco meat onigiri blast off into a winner-takes-all battle. 5:19 - Correction on the History of Boneless Hotbox Chiki 7:29 - Lawson's Mayo Onigiri Regional Tournament 17:03 - Regional, Seasonal, and Limited Edition Conbini Culture 22:05 - Maimai's Karakuchi Commentator Review 25:12 - Conbini News 29:05 - Look Ahead to Next Week ââShow Notes: ââHistory of famichiki: https://news.mynavi.jp/article/20160607-familymart/ ââLawson onigiri tournament voting page: https://www.lawson.co.jp/lab/campaign/onigirisensyuken_mayo/ ââChocolate Bar Cookie Sandwich: https://www.family.co.jp/goods/dessert/1940404.html ââConbini cooler open solution: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgA7GXsQ0z8 Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 30 Sep 2020 | Napping at the Conbini | 00:37:34 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt explore a fundamental part of Japanese culture: eating, sleeping, and watching TV alone in the confine parking lot. They also hit the scoreboard to cover new items out at the Big Three conbini. Mike shares reviews of the Black Pepper Famichiki and the Honey Maple L-Chiki. The show wraps with an exploration of conbini growth since the 60s. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 05 May 2021 | A Love Triangle at Ministop | 00:36:44 | |
This week, weâre taking a look at the Yamitsu-kitchen campaign from Ministop, which features a love triangle, some amazing items, and some questionable giveaways. We take a look at the scoreboard, where the numbers are a little bit low, and then pick out our winners and losers, where Seicomart makes a strong showing. Finally, Mike goes on a rampage at the genba, and sets a new personal record for number of chikis eaten in a week. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 11 Nov 2020 | The Return of the Spicy Commentator | 00:34:35 | |
In this week's episode, we welcome back one of our favorite members of the conbini boys universe: The Spicy Commentator. We look at some chikis, share our favorites from each conbini, check out a new conbini television drama, and continue on with our look at the history of onigiri at the conbini. YouTube: https://youtu.be/Nb4XuNHZPY8 Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 17 Feb 2023 | 6X Seaweed and Flameball Pandas | 00:40:31 | |
In this weekâs episode we take a look at a bonanza of seasoning and dorodoro ramen at Lawson. Mike issues a warning about spread of the Sugoonigiri and reviews the entire Juicy Asia lineup at McDonaldâs. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch us on YouTube:Â Read our newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 09 Feb 2022 | Conbini Apocalypse | 00:37:36 | |
In this weekâs episode, Mike describes an apocalyptic scene at his local conbini. We talk pig ears, yakiniku-sauced karaagekun, choux cream stuffed with brownie, and Donald-Trump-styled beer foam. Join the dumb conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RINalS5yE7M Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 22 Sep 2021 | The King of the Famichiki | 00:42:41 | |
This week we take a look at the Famichiki Competition, where competitors try to eat as many Famichikis as they can to hopefully win a years worth of Famichikis. Matt sings the praises of Uchi Cafe, Mike introduces a Toyama themed instant ramen, and then we check in on the Tsukimi Burger, the legendary McDonalds burger that is out now. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 15 Sep 2021 | Final Fantasy Fried Chicken | 00:41:40 | |
In this week's episode we talk about a FamilyMart campaign that brings back some old favorites from long-lost conbini like Circle K, Sunkus, and ampm. We look at a Lawson-Godiva collaboration. And Mike gives a shocking review of the highly anticipated Final Fantasy XIV Karaagekun. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6yWr0YjfxuM Read dumb Tweets: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Items Discussed
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 Jan 2021 | Crowning the Conbini Tournament Champion | 00:42:03 | |
After six rounds of brutal matchups we finally crown the champion of the Conbini Tournament - Famichiki - and honor it by sharing four legendary feats of juice. We also look at the new item scoreboard and pick winners and losers. We make a call on a haul and Mike reviews a new Famichiki from the gemba. Conbini Tournament Final Bracket Items we discuss:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/3pqmVC3W_FM Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 19 May 2021 | Keeping a Watch at the Konbini with Patrick St. Michel | 00:59:28 | |
This week, weâre joined by a true conbini legend, Patrick St. Michel, the longtime writer of the legendary Konbini Watch column at The Japan Times. We learn about Patrickâs journey to becoming a journalist covering Japanese music and pop culture, and how that combined with his love for the conbini to lead him to Konbini Watch. After that, Patrick sticks around to hang out for the normal show, and offer his amazing commentary on a range of conbini items. Follow Patrick on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mbmelodies Check out his Substack: https://mbmelodies.substack.com/ Read Konbini Watch: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/column/konbini-watch ---------------- Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 29 Apr 2021 | The Future of the Conbini | 00:38:37 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and I imagine the conbini of the future. How will the conbini continue its pursuit of perfect ten or twenty years from today? The Chiki Wars heat back up with 4 Conbini releasing new chiki products. Then it's off to the scoreboard where we share a spectacular new product out of Lawson. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Jul 2021 | Jimoto Frappuccino | 00:41:27 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt go Conbini adjacent and look at the Jimoto Frappuccino campaign at Starbucks featuring unique Frappuccinos from all 47 prefectures. We take a look at the new item scoreboard and share are winners and losers for the week, where Mike continues his assault on the 1/2 day vegetable claims. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Follow us on Twitter: Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 21 Apr 2021 | For the Mothers and the Fathers | 00:29:12 | |
This week, the conbinis open up for preorder for mothers and fathers day gifts, and so Matt and Mike pick out some potential gifts for their parents. We take a look at the scoreboard, where Ministop makes some big gains and Lawson takes a few losses. Finally, Mike reviews three chikis from the genba. Also, a quick heads up, the audio this week might be a little messed up. Sorry about that, weâll try to get it fixed by next week. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 16 Dec 2021 | The Conbini Boys America Tour | 00:45:11 | |
This week, weâre talking about the Conbini Boys America Tour⊠thatâs right, Mikeâs back in the states, and looking forward to meeting up with Matt. They discuss their agenda, with exciting things like eating Prime Rib, going to Sheetz, and checking out the TVs at Best Buy on the docket. In conbini related news, itâs a crazy week in the Chiki wars, where we see maybe the highest number of new chikis that weâve ever seen. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 23 Mar 2022 | A Little Happy and a Little Kyushu | 00:34:11 | |
This week we take a look at two exciting campaigns coming out of 7-11, with the âchoi happyâ sweets campaign, and another focused on the cuisine of Kyushu. Matt and Mike collide during the winners and losers segment, opening up a debate over the strength of Japanese paper, and âAt the Genbaâ Mike introduces the greatest melon pan that the two have ever seen. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 20 May 2020 | Traditional Japanese Cuisine: Hot Dogs and Fried Chicken | 00:34:51 | |
This week, the Conbini Boys take a deep dive into the fried chicken section of the hotbox. Starting with 7-11, theyâll be taking a look over the next couple of weeks at the fried chicken selection from each of the Big 3: Lawson, Family Mart, and 7-11. The spicy commentator is back with another review, this time looking at "Italian Pudding" from 7-11, and as for new items this week, theyâre looking at the traditional Japanese cuisine known as âhot dogs.â Next, following up last week's Top 3 Favorite conbini items episode, Matt and Mike introduce their  âhonorable mentionsâ to the list. And finally, the Boys introduce a new segment: âConbini Boys Story Timeâ with a riveting story about the development of Pocari Sweat. 0:00 - Kickoff 1:30 - Hot Box Fried Chicken Deep Dive:  7-11 (7-11âs fried chicken selection) 8:47  - Sweets Review from the Karakuchi Commentator (7-11âs âItalian Puddingâ) 11:20 - New Items: Hot Dogs! (Lawsonâs âGOOODOGâ, 7-11âs Cheese Dog) 15:42 - Mail bag check 18:32 - Near misses to our Top 3 Conbini Items 26:28 - Conbini Boys Story Time: The history of Pocari Sweat (The History of Pocari Sweat) Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 23 Sep 2020 | Burgermania | 00:39:02 | |
In this weeks episode, we're talking burgers. Yes, that elusive, staple item that the conbini has yet to perfect. Is Family Mart's new burger series the answer to our prayers? We'll have to see. While on the topic, we also look at some of our favorite fast food burgers from Japan as well. We check in with the chiki wars and look at two new chikis: a maple syrup chiki from Lawson, and a black pepper chiki from Family Mart. As always, we take a look at the scoreboard, and check up on some conbini news: this time, an unfortunate trend has extended internationally. Video version here: Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 07 Dec 2022 | 100 Episodes! | 00:32:46 | |
This week, we celebrate our 100th episode by taking a walk down memory lane and looking back on some of our favorite episodes throughout the years. Then, Matt has a big announcement concerning the return of the much loved conbini tournament. Follow us on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Watch us on YouTube Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 20 Jan 2021 | Best of the Conbini Boys: Chiki, Chiki, and More Chiki | 00:22:49 | |
In this week's episode, we take a look back at some of our favorite clips from the past year:Â
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 29 Jul 2020 | Lawson's Uchi Cafe: The Pinnacle of Conbini Sweets | 00:41:25 | |
In this weekâs episode, we turn our eyes to Lawson - checking out their weekly output as well as their legendary Uchi Cafe series. In the Chiki Wars, we take a look at the final results of Lawson's Nice Cheese Gran Prix, as well as a look at a new addition to the Famichiki lineup. We share a few hauls, enter a lightning round in Mike's "At the Genba" series, and check in on some controversial news coming out of the conbini. 1:30 - Final Results of Lawsonâs Nice Cheese Grand Prix 3:15 - Family Mart's Dak-galbi Famichiki 5:21 - Podcast Blooper #3 (ZERO kcal Cider triple) 7:28 - Lawson's Weekly Output
17:04 - Lawson's Uchi Cafe Introduction
22:40 - 7-11's Pierre Herme Series Introduction 25:43 - Sharing Hauls Z32:09 - At the Genba with Mike Lightning Round 37:51 - Conbini News Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 18 Aug 2021 | Chikis for You, Chikis for Me | 00:36:05 | |
This week, the chiki wars are taking over, with multiple chikis coming out across the conbini landscape. Family mart commemorates its 40th anniversary with 40% larger versions of a number of its items. Matt and Mike clash on the topic of vegetable sticks, and try to track down the illusive Final Fantasy 14 Karaage-kun. Other ways to enjoy and support the conbini Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 01 Sep 2021 | It's Time to Talk About Cup Noodle | 00:28:32 | |
This week, weâre taking a look at a very special section of the conbini, and that is the instant noodle zone. And what better way to start, than to introduce the king of instant noodles themselves, Cup Noodle. Mike continues to try to track down the Final Fantasy Karaage-kun, and Matt picks up an amazing man that neither of us have experienced before. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 26 Aug 2020 | The Chiki Wars Rage On | 00:41:00 | |
In this week's episode, the chiki wars are heating up with all three conbini releasing big-time chikis. Mike and Matt take a look at the new item scoreboard, which has a surprise from Lawson. The Spicy Commentator is back for another sweets review. We make a call on a couple of hauls before heading to the gemba with Mike to hear about the return of 7-11's agetori. Did it bring tears to his eyes? Finally, we follow up on the phenomenon of old people crashing into the conbini. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 15 Jul 2020 | Too Many Products, Too Little Time | 00:36:07 | |
68 new products this week... and that's just at Family Mart. We take a look at the mind-blowing weekly output of the conbini, check in on Lawson's Nice Cheese Grand Prix, take a look at 7-11's Sauce in Chicken series and Ministop's Double Cheese Katsu Dog, critique a couple of hauls, hear from the Spicy Commentator about a previously introduced product, and catch up on some conbini news that is sure to shake up the industry. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 11 Aug 2021 | Keeping Cool at the Conbini | 00:30:56 | |
It's August, which means it's hot as all hell in Japan. Mike and Matt share some tips on how to keep cool at the conbini covering everything from body wipes to cold noodles. The Chiki Wars cool off with just one new boneless fried chicken product out. And the new item scoreboard shows record low numbers. The Big Three product development teams may be giving in to the heat. Items to keep cool
Chiki Wars Winners and Losers Other ways to enjoy and support the conbini Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 16 Dec 2020 | The Conbini Tournament Heats Up | 00:35:15 | |
The Conbini Tournament hosted some savage matchups in Round 2. Mike was left shaken to his core by a close battle between Pocari Sweat and Oi Ocha Green Tea, while Matt was left feeling anxious about a Round 3 fight between Canned Coffee and Conbini Drip Coffee. Â Â Outside the tournament, Mike and Matt take a look at two new chikis from FamilyMart and Lawson. The former continues its quest to perfect a cheese-in recipe, while the latter has crafted a chicken leg masterpiece. Â Â Mike and Matt bring back 'What's the call on that haul?' where Mike breaks down a shinkansen conbini haul sent to us on Twitter. The podcast wraps up with At the Gemba with Mike, where Mike reviews two cheese-stuffed chikis from FamilyMart. Check out the video where you can see all the goodies on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wUw_Z2R46NU Join the Conbini Tournament by following us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys View the live bracket here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1VKUdrGm9J-esZ3TEBHoyZqr-BNBhBvXo4rIvk0ioaWs/edit?usp=sharing Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 10 Jun 2020 | Legendary Famichiki Tales: Extraordinary Feats of Juice | 00:37:37 | |
Matt and Mike round out their deep dive into hotbox fried chicken with a journey to Family Mart, and follow it with some truly legendary tales about the power of Famichiki. The Karakuchi commentator heads back to Lawson to bring us a review of a cupcake inspired item. Mike shares his thoughts on the Kakipi Famichiki, and the two look at a couple of new items: the Burger King Strong Burger and Cheese Milk Tea. Finally, after taking a look into the mailbag, we share some uplifting Conbini-related news stories. 0:00 - Kickoff 2:10 - Family Mart's Fried Chicken Deep Dive 8:03 - Legendary Famichiki Stories 17:20 - Sweets Review from the Karakuchi Commentator (Lawson's Cupke) 20:07 - Kakipi Famichiki review 22:50 - New Items: Burger King Strong Burger and Cheese Milk Tea 28:33 - Mailbag! 32:34 - Conbini News Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 16 Jun 2021 | The Ice Cream Episode | 00:44:19 | |
This week weâre talking ice cream. Itâs getting hot, summerâs about to start, and so we thought it would be a good time to introduce the ice cream zone at the conbini. We walk you through the lay of the land, talk about the different ice boxes youâll find, and then introduce some of the legends of the conbini ice cream world. Matt picks up one of the most shocking losers weâve seen in a while, and to close it out Mike introduces his familyâs experience with Lawsonâs Okaasan Shokudo. Subscribe to our YouTube channel:Â https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter:Â https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 21 Jul 2021 | Hot Dog Summer | 00:32:18 | |
Itâs getting hot out there, but our old friend the Gooodog is here to save the day, with Lawson proclaiming that this summer will be the âSummer of Hot Dogs.â The Chiki Wars are alive and well with a ton of new offerings, including a curry-infused Famichiki and a Final Fantasy themed Karaage-kun. Finally, in the winners and losers section, we see some winners sure to keep you cool, and some losers that make us once again question the photography team at 7-11. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 12 Apr 2023 | The Lost Episode | 00:29:46 | |
This week, we take a look at a lost episode. We recorded this one a month or two ago, but couldn't get it out until now. Who knows what we talked about? Something about 4 billion Karaage-kun sold? Sour cream and onion Famichiki? No one knows, but I'm sure it was pretty cool. Follow us on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Watch us on YouTube Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 17 Jun 2020 | Episode 10 Blowout: Popping Brewskies at the Conbini | 00:38:49 | |
Itâs episode 10! Mike and Matt kick off with congratulatory notes recognizing this unbelievable milestone. Everyone from Michael Jordan to Shinzo Abe wrote in. Then the boys jump into a HUGE conbini topic in celebration of the 10th episode: alcohol. The Conbini Boys cover everything from beer to canned cocktails to cup sake. They ask the big questions like âWhich has more text on it: a New York Times front page or an Asahi Super Dry beer can?â They dispense critical advice, such as what to do when your friend peels back a cup sake top. In new products, Mike and Matt review the Lemondo canned cocktail from Coca Cola and frozen beer from Kirin. Finally, Mike and Matt share big news about Lawsonâs karaage-kun launching into space and the accompanying Black Hole flavor chicken nuggets.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 29 Mar 2020 | Conbini Boyz Kickoff | 00:22:47 | |
In their inaugural episode, Mike and Matt dive into the fried chicken wars, the latest seasonal items on conbini shelves, Covid-19, and 7-11âs war on the storeowner who refused to stay open 24 hours. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 01 Jun 2022 | We Love the Dads (And of Course the Moms Too) | 00:34:15 | |
This week, weâre looking at fatherâs day, and trying to unravel a mystery about why there are so few father themed items at the conbini. We check out a bizarre cheese and Chiki release, revisit a spicy chicken sandwich, and take a look at a truly incredible collaboration between pizza chips, fish and cheese. Watch us on YouTube Check out the Newsletter See dumb stuff on Twitter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 07 Jul 2021 | Conbini News Lightning Round | 00:30:32 | |
In this week's episode, we do a lightening round of conbini news. We take a look at the scoreboard and share our winners and losers, including an entire bento box packed into an onigiri. Then Mike heads to Gemba to talk McDonald's 50th anniversary. See all the goodies on YouTube Follow us on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 27 Apr 2022 | Brown Sugar Bonanza | 00:34:08 | |
In this weekâs episode, we discuss an Okinawa-themed campaign at 7-11, check out a tartar sauce karaage-kun, mourn the struggles of Daily Yamazaki, and meditate on ice cream. Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5KDYMm5IMaU Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 10 Feb 2021 | Seicomart Is No Joke | 00:43:16 | |
This week, weâre continuing our theme of taking a look at some of the smaller convenience stores around Japan. So just just like with Ministop and Daily Yamazaki, this week weâre taking a deep dive into Hokkaidoâs pride, Seicomart. The Chiki wars take an unexpected turn when Matt and Mike discover the existence of a mysterious association. We take a look at the scoreboard and pick out our winners and losers, where both newcomers Ministop and Daily Yamazaki make an appearance. Finally, Mike reports from the genba with a review of an item that just might have to do with the conbini champion himself - Famichiki. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 27 May 2020 | Lawson's Karaage-kun: The Greatest Product Platform of All Time? | 00:38:59 | |
The Conbini Boys continue their deep dive into hot box fried chicken at Lawson, home of the karagage-kun. These fried chicken nuggets have an astonishing number of flavors. The Spicy Commentator is back to review FamilyMartâs Zakuzaku Banana Chocolate Ice Cream Bar. The Conbini Boys dig into two new items: gatsuri ramen out of 7-11 and Kakipi (rice cracker) Famichiki at FamilyMart. After diving into the mailbag, Mike and Matt announce the winner of Lawsonâs Regional Mayonnaise Onigiri Tournament. Finally, the Conbini Boys share news on the Famichiki Senpai (Famichiki big brother) and his exercise routine while in quarantine.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 Nov 2022 | How Much Cheese is Too Much Cheese? | 00:33:44 | |
This week, weâre taking a look at a cheese campaign coming out of Lawson. Will it live up to the legendary Nice Cheese Grand Prix of yore? Weâll have to see. We talk soups and burgers, and on the topic of burgers, Matt relays his experience with an amazing new burger out of Shake Shack. Watch us on YouTube Check out the Newsletter See dumb stuff on Twitter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 19 Apr 2023 | Mother's Day with the Conbini | 00:29:06 | |
After a long break weâre back talking conbini. We review Motherâs Day catalogs, celebrate 20 years of cheese Karaage-kun at Lawson, and look at a stale hot dog at FamilyMart. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 16 Nov 2022 | Conbini Christmas Preview | 00:41:29 | |
In this weekâs episode we preview Christmas lineups from the Big Three Conbini. We announce the start of bone season. Mike promotes Mabo tofu and Matt finds one of the strangest conbini items to date. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Subscribe to our newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 20 Jul 2022 | PSA - Keeping Cool at the Conbini 2022 | 00:30:07 | |
This week, weâre bringing you a public service announcement about how to stay cool at the conbini. Last year, we recommended a number of items, but this year we walk you through each of our own strategies for keeping cool. The chiki wars are still in high gear, and in a heated segment, Matt and Mike talk about the merits of craft beer. Last year's "Keeping Cool at the Conbini" Watch us on YouTube Check out the Newsletter See dumb stuff on Twitter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 04 Nov 2020 | Unsolved Conbini Mysteries | 00:33:23 | |
In this week's episode, the chiki wars heat up with three new chikis from each of the Big 3 Conbini. We share our winners and losers from this week's new items. Mike tells a spooky tale about 7-11's Zaku Chiki from the gemba. And we head to Conbini College to talk about the history of the onigiri.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/epruUtLSptw Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 14 Jan 2023 | Crowning the Conbini World Cup Champion | 00:34:45 | |
In this weekâs episode, we celebrate the ConbinI World Cup champion and review some of the tournamentâs surprising outcomes. We take a look at 3 new chikis, pull back the curtain on a dirty diaper from 7-11, and Mike has a hot take on the Yuzu Kosho Famichiki. Join dumb conversations on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@conbiniboys3092/featured Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 13 Jul 2022 | Two Trips to Hokkaido | 00:45:15 | |
In this weekâs episode, we take two trips to Hokkaido with 7-11 and Lawson. We review FOUR new chikis. Mike tries a Sugoonigiri from New Days. And Matt pumps Tim Hortonâs. Â Â
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Sep 2020 | We Made it to Youtube! - Episode 20 Blowout | 00:39:24 | |
In this week's podcast we make our video premiere! We get accustomed to the new video format and then check out the Chiki Wars and the scoreboard for new releases at each of the conbinis. We take a focused look at the unfortunate phenomenon of the elderly crashing their cars into conbinis, Mike gives a live "At the Genba" review, and then we take a look at some news revolving around Lawson's new strategy for oden. Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8j5ckHKWHM Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Dec 2020 | Episode 31: Our Final Fours in the Conbini Tournament | 00:36:23 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt share their respective Final Fours in the conbini tournament. Matt drops some shocking news about his feelings toward Pocari Sweat, while Mike speculates on the rise of conbini drip coffee. Naturally, they talk chikis. Lawson joins 7-11 and FamilyMart with their Christmas-inspired bone-in fried chicken, then one-ups them with beautifully broiled chicken legs. Winners and losers cover everything from Protein in Pocket to squid cartilage (what?!). Download your conbini bracket or make one in Google Sheets. Join the conbini convo on Twitter. And check out all the goodies on YouTube. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 28 Jul 2021 | The Conbini Olympics | 00:36:42 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and I compete in the Conbini Olympics to celebrate the start of the Tokyo Olympics. We take a close look at a Miso Katsu donburi and Mike reviews the Cheese-in Curry Famichiki. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hubsXIbMp4U Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Conbini Items featured:Â
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| 27 Jan 2021 | Beyond the Big 3: Ministop | 00:39:21 | |
Itâs a new year, and we decided to do something new⊠For the next couple of weeks, weâre going to be looking beyond the Big 3, to some of the other smaller conbinis in Japan. This week, weâre starting with Ministop. We check in with the Chiki wars, where we look at 4 new chikis. We take a look at the scoreboard, pick out our winners and losers, and then check in with Mike for some items from the genba. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 25 Jan 2023 | Mystery Fried Chicken | 00:34:57 | |
This week, we take a look at an exciting campaign out of Family Mart featuring nazo â that is â mysterious fried chicken. Each region of Japan will have its contender, and the champion will see a nationwide release. We talk about some other mysterious items such as bonjiiri yakitori, Sugo-Oni, and drinkable slime, and then Matt and Mike try to decide if smoked sausage is an acceptable flavor for chicken. Follow us on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Watch us on YouTube Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 10 May 2020 | Top 3 Conbini Items | 00:34:45 | |
In this weekâs episode, Mike and Matt share their Top 3 favorite conbini items. Itâs a nearly impossible question to answer. But after a week of long walks, pacing around the house, and consulting with fellow conbini-lovers, they each managed to whittle it down to three spectacular items. As always, Mike and Matt kick it off with hot box chicken, specifically tatsuta chicken. The Karakuchi Commentator IS BACK for another sweets review where she talks Basque-style Cheesecake from Lawsonâs. The Conbini Boyz follow up on Lawsonâs regional mayonnaise-themed onigiri tournament sharing which two made it to the final showdown. Conbini news continues to revolve around Covid-19, celebrating a collaboration between a long-haul bus company and Lawsonâs. As always, Mike and Matt round it out with two conbini memories.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 10 Mar 2021 | Countdown to Full Bloom | 00:33:16 | |
This week, weâre looking ahead to the cherry blossom season. We look at some of the cherry blossom themed items being released at the conbini, and debate what exactly is the flavor of sakura? We welcome NewDays to the scoreboard, share our winners and losers, and then preview a new segment where Matt will be reviewing fast food items from the states. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 21 Oct 2020 | Highway Robbery: Conbini Christmas Cake | 00:39:35 | |
We kickoff this week's episode with more vegan innovation out of FamilyMart - meatless nuggets. Then we dive into the New Item Scoreboard , picking winners and losers out of the Big 3 Conbini. The mailbag is back with shoutouts to a few Twitter followers dropping big-time knowledge. We review Lawson's Christmas menu and nearly blow our stacks on the price and size of their Christmas cakes. Mike reviews a new poke chiki and we wrap with some news on conbini sales during the Covid-19 pandemic. 2:32 - Chiki Wars 6:58 - Scoreboard 8:40 - Mike's Winner: Kushikatsu from Lawson 11:04 - Matt's Winner: Tamagotchi's Sando from Lawson 12:28 - Mike's Loser: Caramel Popcorn Lifeguard Flavor from FamilyMart 14:23 - Matt's Loser: Spicy Cod Roe (mentaiko) Filled French Baguette from FamilyMart 15:59 - Mailbag 20:35 - Lawson's Christmas Menu 23:42 - Lawson's Christmas Cake Lineup 31:55 - At the Gemba with Mike: PokeChiki 35:11 - Conbini News Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 25 Aug 2021 | Nikuman-ia | 00:32:18 | |
In this week's episode, we welcome the coming of fall with the arrival of nikuman. Their blessed colors - yellow, orange, and white - paint the hot box like foliage blankets a New England landscape. We check out Takoyaki ice cream and Mike reviews the Razor Red Ghost Pepper L-Chiki. Â Item we cover:
Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 04 Aug 2021 | The Conbini Games Continue On | 00:39:39 | |
This week, in the spirit of the Olympics, we continue our Conbini games, where Matt and Mike offer each other scenarios and try to choose their gold, silver, and bronze conbini items for various situations. The Chiki wars are still hot, and we see the introduction of a Taiwanese chiki into the mix. In the winners and losers section, Daily Yamazaki and 7-11 continue to take hits, while sweets continue to make progress. Mike reviews the ketchup and mustard Karaage-kun, and finally, we take a look at a haul by the one and only, Conbini Ojisan. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 23 Dec 2020 | R.I.P. CAN COFFEE | 00:42:17 | |
This week we're checking back in on the Conbini Tournament, where the third round has wrapped up and we're into the divisional championships. We celebrate the winners, and then take some time to commemorate some of the losers, who will continue to live on in our hearts. No chikis this week, for the first time ever, but we do take a look at the scoreboard and share our winners and losers as always. And finally, we celebrate Karaage-kun's incredible arrival aboard the International Space Station. Check out the youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conbini convo on Twitter.  https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Download your conbini bracket or make one in Google Sheets.   https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1VKUdrGm9J-esZ3TEBHoyZqr-BNBhBvXo4rIvk0ioaWs/edit#gid=0 Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 20 Oct 2021 | Paripari Pikotaro Chiki | 00:39:14 | |
This week, we take a look at Lawsonâs Parichiki, which claims to be an extra crispy Chiki coming out this week. We get an update from Mike about the Famichiki competition, and see if heâs still hanging in at the top of his local store. Finally, Lawson takes some hits in the winners and losers, where Matt picks up perhaps the saddest bento weâve ever seen. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 09 Dec 2020 | The Highest of Highs and Lowest of Lows | 00:37:11 | |
In this week's episode we're checking in on the Conbini Tournament, where the first round has finally wrapped up. We take a look at our devastated brackets, talk about some of our favorite matchups from the first round, and look ahead to some of the exciting matches in the upcoming round of 32. We check out some cheesy chikis, spotlight a couple of upcoming conbini items, hear from the Spicy Commentator about a new drama-inspired sweet, highlight an upcoming conbini protégé, and then hear from a caller who tells an incredible memory of how the conbini saved him during a critical emergency. Check out the youtube channel: Join the conbini convo on Twitter.  Download your conbini bracket or make one in Google Sheets.   Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 06 Oct 2021 | Updates from the Famichiki Competition | 00:46:13 | |
This week, weâre checking in on the Famichiki competition, where competitors battle it out over a month by eating as many Famichikis as they can. The prize: more Famichikis. Matt picks up a bizarre water, and Uchi Cafe continues to be the talk of the town. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 24 Dec 2021 | Royal Farms, Au Jus, and Costco | 00:38:00 | |
In this weekâs episode, Mike and Matt record together for the first time in the United States. They step away from Japan and discuss some of Americaâs icons like Royal Farms and Costco, they celebrate the Au Jus summit, and they encourage everyone to buy a new TV. Â Â Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I3j7-fy1AAA Read dumb stuff on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 19 Aug 2020 | Famiriki: The Family Mart and Choshu Riki Tag Team | 00:29:15 | |
This week, we're looking at some new fried chicken items coming out of Family Mart and Lawson, checking in on the weekly output at the conbini and picking up some items to share, taking a look Family Mart's collaboration with professional wrestling legend Choshu Riki, and catching up on some conbini news. Check out photos of the items we discuss on social: Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 28 Apr 2020 | The Big Chiki | 00:40:16 | |
In this episode of Conbini Boyz, Mike and Matt talk Big Chiki. Thatâs right - BIG Chiki. FamilyMart has unleashed from its hot box a 1.5x sized Famichiki. Does it live up to the hype? Tune in to find out. In Conbini News, we talk Covid-19 and how 7-11 owners are braving the crisis like true samurai warriors. Then, we talk about the latest trend in conbini items - Cheese Foam Drinks. Should you have one? Probably! Finally, as always, we end with Conbini Memories. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 09 Jun 2021 | Top 3 Underrated Conbini Items | 00:42:29 | |
Last week, we looked at our top overrated items at the conbini, and this week we're continuing that trend by offering up our 3 most underrated items. If you've been listening to the show for a while, you can probably guess a couple of them, but some of them might surprise you. We make a big announcement during the scoreboard segment, then Matt reveals an amazingly appetizing loser, Â followed by one of the juiciest winners that we've ever seen. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 09 Mar 2022 | Praise for Normal Strength Booze | 00:29:12 | |
In this weekâs episode, we take a look at the long-awaited emergence of new 5% chuhais, sippable Godiva chocolate pudding, and Mike tries a Famichiki sandwiched between a maple syrup nikuman. Join a dumb conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rKYZ3E-MGic Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 05 Apr 2020 | Drinkable Cheese Tart and Gubo | 00:35:43 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt dive into the latest news and products hitting the conbini:Â Unmanned conbinis watched over by AI 7-11's acquisition of Speedway falls through Gubo chunky sticks FamilyMart debuts its first vegan item PABLO cheese tarts in drinkable form As always, we kickoff with something on the Chiki Wars. And end with a couple conbini memories. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 01 Dec 2021 | The Bones Are Back in Town | 00:32:21 | |
In this weekâs episode we look at a Nikuman campaign out of Daily Yamazaki and a Creamy Milk campaign out of Lawson. We celebrate the arrival of more bones in the Hot Box. And we mourn the arrival of more rice burgers. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 02 Nov 2022 | Finding Love in a Conbini Haul | 00:33:17 | |
In this weekâs episode, we offer more love advice by sharing how to spot THE ONE based on conbini hauls. We take a look at pizza karagekun, Matt questions Monster energy drink rehab-flavor, and Mike hunts for the curry L-Chiki. Subscribe to the Conbini Boys newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com See dumb stuff like this on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 17 Feb 2021 | Pounding Rice at Poplar | 00:38:34 | |
In this week's episode, we continue our exploration of B-Tier conbini and head over to Poplar, a popular conbini in and around Hiroshima. We take a look back at their history and share what makes them special, notably the option to order a pound of rice in your bento. As always, we run down the new item scoreboard, share our winners and losers, and then head to gemba for another look at the the tare chiki from FamilyMart. Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F57i7TIKa2w Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 09 Sep 2020 | Bento Box Bombshell | 00:56:04 | |
In this week's episode, we take a deep dive into a conbini staple - the bento box. What are our Top 3 bento boxes? Then we head off to the gemba for a tour of the hot box section. As usual, we take a look at the new item scoreboard and follow up on some conbini news. Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 24 Feb 2021 | NewDays: Your Conbini Base at the Train Station | 00:33:50 | |
This week, weâre finishing our tour of B-tier conbinis, and to close it out weâre taking a look at NewDays, the train station convenience store chain. We take a look at the scoreboard, pick our winners and losers where thereâs a little bit of controversy, and then talk about another controversial item that keeps popping up, family martâs Poki Chiki. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 31 Mar 2021 | Time Flies When You're Eating Chiki | 00:37:15 | |
This week marks our one year anniversary since starting the podcast, and so we take a look back at some of the memorable items, news, and segments from the past year. We take a look at some interesting items, including an innovative rice ball, some strange flavored chips, a classic hot dog, and a horrifying monster of a wrap. Finally, Matt shares a pizza, while Mike shares his experience of rehydrating during a stomach flu. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 22 Dec 2022 | Conbini World Cup: Round 1, Pretty Much Done | 00:32:02 | |
This week we check in on the first round of the Conbini World Cup. We pick up a couple of matches that stood out to us, including a few shockers that left us both speechless. Then, Matt introduces us to an amazing roast beef sandwich chain. Follow us on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Watch us on YouTube Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 14 Aug 2022 | It's a Curry Summer | 00:33:10 | |
In this weekâs episode, we discuss two huge curry campaigns out of 7-11 and Ministop. We roast a five cheese tortilla. And Mike takes a deep dive into Lawsonâs Machi Kado. Join the dumb convo on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Read our awesome newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JQXOjrERYWA Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 24 Jun 2020 | Keeping Cool at the Conbini | 00:27:44 | |
The Conbini Boys are back after their episode 10 blowout. They start with a check in on the Chiki Wars, taking a look at Family Martâs new 3 part famichiki series, featuring the incredible Karamucho Famichiki this week. Following up from last weekâs alcohol themed episode, Matt and Mike go in depth about drinking culture in Japan, talking about everything from nomikais to daikos. The Spicy Commentator is back with a traditional Japanese sweet review from 7-11, and for new items this week, the boys take a look at some items to keep you cool during the hot summer. Finally, they take a look at the world of conbini news, unearthing an interesting new trend involving t-shirts as well as another hero to add to the conbini hall of fame. 1:57 - Chiki Wars: Family Martâs new 3 part Famichiki series 5:49 - Overview of Japanese drinking culture 12:00 - Spicy Commentator Reviews: 7-11âs Mochimochi Warabimochi 14:40 - New Item: 7-11's Clear Cooler Strong: Pineapple and Mango Sour 16:14 - New Item: Lawson's Machi Cafe: Frozen Party Soda 18:07 - Mailbag 21:44 - The Great Conbini T-shirt battle: Lawson's Sour Squad vs Family Mart's Karamucho Chiki 24:48 - Conbini News: A new hero is born Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 03 Mar 2021 | Our Firsts Guests: Casey and Joe from Ishikawa Summit to Sea | 00:52:31 | |
In this week's episode, we're joined by our first guests, Casey and Joe from the Ishikawa Summit to Sea podcast. They're conbini veterans living in Ishikawa Prefecture. Highlights from the episode include:Â
And now, links!
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| 03 Feb 2021 | Getting Baked at Daily Yamazaki | 00:41:50 | |
In this week's episode we continue our deep dive into B-tier conbini and head to Daily Yamazaki, a minor conbini known for its baked goods. We check out the chiki wars and the scoreboard, where Mike takes a shot at Ministop. Then we hit the Gemba where Mike reviews the tarutaru chiki. Check out all the action on YouTube: https://youtu.be/C-gIUUCkEro Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 24 Aug 2022 | The Robots Are (Eventually) Coming | 00:35:54 | |
This week, weâre catching up on the latest installment of a story that weâve been following for a while â robots at the conbini. This time around, it seems like thereâs been some progress, and Matt and Mike talk about what we can hope to expect with autonomous conbini machines. We talk Korean chikis, weird salad chickens, an amazing pudding selection from lawson, and a big development for Mike at the genba. Watch us on YouTube Check out the Newsletter See dumb stuff on Twitter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 24 Mar 2021 | Eating Korean at the Kanbini | 00:29:54 | |
In this week's episode, we celebrate the arrival of the Kanbini - a convenience store that features Korean snacks, prepared food, and beverages. The Chiki Wars finally heat up with four new chikis. We take a look at the Scoreboard and finally see MiniStop serve up a couple of losers this week. Matt shares a review of Shake Shack's new Korean Fried Chicken sandwich. And Mike gives us the lay of the land when it comes to conbini at his new home. YouTube: https://youtu.be/WTMAEjQlSXM Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 06 Apr 2022 | Who Doesn't Love April Fools (at the Conbini)? | 00:36:57 | |
This week we take a look at the Famichiki Frappe, an imaginary item that Family Mart introduced as an April fools joke. And so of course, we take some time to imagine some of our own wacky April Foolâs style items, and come up with some pretty interesting things. To round out the show, we visit Mattâs Munchies, where Matt walks us through a number of incredible pairings of snacks and another feel good item. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 18 Nov 2020 | Sipping Whiskey and Snacking Chiki | 00:36:31 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt talk about yet another Karaagekun flavor, the return of premium bone-in chicken at FamilyMart, share this week's winning and losing new items from the Big 3 conbini, discuss a FamilyMart with a bar, hear from the Spicy Commentator on a new conbini sweet, hit the gemba, and listen to their first caller's conbini memory.
Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 18 May 2022 | Matcha Sweets and Cold Noodles | 00:34:39 | |
This week we take a look at two interesting campaigns, one featuring matcha flavored sweets, and the other featuring all the varieties of cold noodle dishes Japan has to offer. In the winners and losers segment, Matt picks up probably the worst sandwich weâve ever seen, and Mike picks up a mystery item that the two try to solve. Finally, in "At the Gemba", we at long last take a look at some items outside of the categories of chiki and chuhai. Watch us on YouTube See dumb stuff on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Buy us a Chiki Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 30 Mar 2022 | Toilet Bowl or Gratin | 00:32:50 | |
In this weekâs episode we take a look at a Childrenâs Day Kabuto cake, dive into an Okinawa-themed campaign, question skid marks on a 7-11 gratin, and review FamilyMartâs crispy chicken. Join the dumb conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_NaYAFruWTg Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 06 Jan 2021 | Famichiki vs Tuna Mayo Onigiri | 00:38:46 | |
Happy new year! And what a way to start: we've finally reached the championship round of the Conbini Tournament. From the hotbox division: Famichiki. From the meal division: Tuna Mayo Onigiri. We give our predictions, our thoughts, and look forward to the not so distant future where we can crown the king of the conbini. And that's not all... things are picking up again at the conbini! We pick up our winners and losers, talk some chikis including a really exciting one from Family Mart, and then Mike shares a couple of genba items, featuring one blast from the past. Check out the youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Vote for your champion on twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Check out the full conbini bracket on Google Sheets: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1VKUdrGm9J-esZ3TEBHoyZqr-BNBhBvXo4rIvk0ioaWs/edit#gid=0 Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 05 Oct 2022 | Finding Love at the Conbini | 00:39:55 | |
In this weekâs episode we offer dating advice to Zoomers, evaluate 192 new items from 7-11, and Mike takes a trip to 7-11âs headquarters. See dumb stuff on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Subscribe to our newsletter: https://conbiniboys.substack.com Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 12 May 2021 | Slamming Draft Beer from a Can | 00:33:16 | |
In this week's episode, Mike and Matt give an update on the righteous battle between Mr. Matsumoto and 7-11. We discuss an amazing new beer can from Asahi that somehow replicates the draft beer experience. The Chiki Wars remain hot with two new chikis. We check on our winners and losers amongst this week's new items, which include a hot number from Go!Go! Curry. Mike wraps with a review of the Mochi Weiner from Lawson. Watch all the glory on YouTube Join the convo on Twitter Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 26 May 2021 | Matt vs. Melon Pan | 00:38:31 | |
Breaking news here in the world of the conbini today. The Conbini Boys that we know and love are in a courtroom battle after Mattâs sudden declaration that âMelon Pan is bad.â Mike steps in to defend Melon Pan, but Matt stays on the offensive. Is Melon Pan good or bad? Will the Conbini Boys be able to resolve their differences without it ripping the show apart. Those are the questions weâre hoping to answer today. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSPvGGbEW7VKQ8Y4MTPBoQ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://twitter.com/conbiniboys Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
| 04 May 2023 | ConbiniGPT | 00:31:20 | |
This week, we decided to let AI to do our work for us. We asked ChatGPT to generate a script for an episode, and were really impressed with it came up with. Follow us on Twitter Check out the Newsletter Watch us on YouTube Get full access to Conbini Boys Newsletter at conbiniboys.substack.com/subscribe | |||
