Published: 20 February 2024
Stuck in the endless scroll on Netflix? Here are 6 food-focused shows with a quirky twist to add to your watchlist today!
Disclaimer: These TV shows may cause cravings, late-night munchies and a thirst for food adventures. Other side effects may include binge-watching, loss of time, and impulsive online food shopping. Viewer discretion is advised.
1. The Brothers Sun (Total: 7h 16min)
Netflix’s new hit series, “The Brothers Sun,” follows Bruce Sun, an LA college student whose life unravels when he reunites with his estranged brother and learns that his family heads Taiwan’s most powerful Triad gang.
Despite the continuous violence and chaos, “The Brothers Sun” never fails to pay homage to the world of food. In fact, food serves as a beacon of light, balancing out the darkness of the plot centered around gangsters.
Throughout the series, food acts as a powerful symbol of cultural identity, familial bonds, and tradition. This action comedy drama stands as a poignant celebration of Asian American culture and serves as a gentle reminder that our culinary heritage not only sustains us physically but also nourishes our souls and evokes a profound sense of belonging and nostalgia.
Overall, all eight episodes maintain a compelling pace and feature well-developed characters who play off each other brilliantly to keep the humor alive despite the dark themes.
PS: Hidden within its culinary delights lies the secret to the best churros ever. So get that notepad ready!
2. Kantaro : The Sweet Tooth Salaryman (Total: 4h 48min)
This is perhaps one of the quirkiest TV shows you’ll ever come across.
“Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman” is a Japanese series with 12 episodes, each devoted to a beloved sweet delicacy. While some showcase Japanese classics like Anmitsu and Mamekan, others explore sweets with European roots such as the éclair and the renowned Mont-Blanc dessert.
The show follows a salaryman who leads a double life, secretly running a dessert review blog where he expresses his deep love for sweets. His day job is merely a facade, reminiscent of Superman’s journalism career, while his true passion lies in all things dessert.
Viewers are treated to stunning and elegant food videography that successfully celebrates the art of pâtisserie, highlighting Japan and France’s culinary bond. However, Kantaro’s quirky and awkward persona sharply contrasts this sophistication. So get ready for some cringeworthy moments!
Overall, “Kantaro” combines food wisdom, stunning visuals, and humor, making it perfect for a weekend binge-watch that could easily inspire a trip to the bakery.
3. Mo (Total: 3h 25min)
The Netflix show “Mo”, featuring standup comedian Mohammed Amer, is a hilarious and heartwarming introduction to Palestinian food heritage through the eyes of Mo Najjar, a Palestinian refugee on his journey towards obtaining U.S. citizenship.
This show delivers unforgettable food moments that’ll leave you craving a taste of Palestinian cuisine. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that sweeps you up in laughter, yet also touches your heart with its genuine warmth. Nothing is taken for granted, from the olive oil that traveled thousands of kilometers to reach Houston, Texas, to the beloved maklouba, treasured for its delicious taste and cultural significance.
The protagonist’s journey is simply captivating because it resonates with audiences far beyond the confines of Palestinian culture. After all, the yearning for belonging is universal, especially for those displaced from their homes.
Given the ongoing events in Gaza and the West Bank, the show’s exploration of cultural identity becomes even more poignant. It provides viewers with a profound insight into how conflicts deeply impact people’s lives. But it also showcases their admirable resilience in the face of adversity.
The first season consists of just 8 episodes, but here’s some good news: another season is already in the works!
4. The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell (Total: 2h 36min)
Every day feels like Halloween with Christine McConnell! This artist seamlessly combines the art of baking with horror, evoking a magical blend of Martha Stewart’s finesse and Guillermo del Toro’s boundless imagination.
Part cooking show, part sitcom, “The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell” unfolds within the eerie confines of a haunted mansion. Each episode follows our protagonist as she navigates both the challenges of baking and the whimsical antics of living in a spooky environment.
With its quirky creatures and mysterious plot, the show serves up stunning baking creations and creepy crafts that will have you glued to the screen. But it’s Christine’s meticulous yet fun-loving nature that, in my opinion, truly steals the show.
And for those who finished watching all 6 episodes and are still craving more, do not fret! Christine McConnell also has a fantastic YouTube channel where you can follow her latest creative endeavours.
5. Bee and Puppycat (Total: 6h 47min)
This charming show is an absolute delight, offering a perfect blend of cuteness, humor, and your much-needed dose of cat therapy! I mean…what’s not to love!
“Bee and Puppycat” is a vibrant animated series boasting impeccable comedic timing, stunning visual style, and spot-on voice acting. It’s silly and cute and will most likely remind you of another very popular animated television series. Would you be surprised if I told you this show was created by Natasha Allegri, the character designer and storyboard artist for Adventure Time? Needless to say, get ready for an exhilarating ride!
Food plays a central role in the narrative, whether it’s through Bee’s culinary enthusiasm, the whimsical interdimensional snacks they encounter, or Deckard’s determined aspirations to become a chef.
And let’s not overlook the plethora of adorable food-themed accessories, from the fried egg bag to the eggplant cushion that adorns Bee’s couch. Clearly, these 16 episodes are thoughtfully curated to satisfy any food enthusiast!
6. Samurai Gourmet (Total: 4h 7min)
Much like “Kantaro”, “Samurai Gourmet” pays homage to Japanese cuisine, blending flamboyant food reactions with an authentic and immersive portrayal of Japan. However, in this series, the spotlight shines on savory delights rather than sweet ones!
The protagonist, a newly retired sixty-year-old salaryman, decides to embark on food adventures to reignite his zest for life and reconnect with his inner warrior. The pace is deliberately slow and reflective, encouraging us to rediscover the joy of living and reflect on what truly brings us happiness.
Across just 12 brief episodes, viewers are swept into an immersive culinary journey through the heart of Japan. From beloved classics like ramen to lesser-known regional specialties, the show invites viewers on a mouthwatering adventure to explore the culinary wonders of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Additionally, the show highlights a special guest appearance by a Canadian YouTuber known for her unique journey from modeling in Japan to motherhood in Hong Kong. Ring any bell?
