6 Japanese Movies with Culinary Themes That Are Interesting to Watch, Beware It Might Ruin Your Diet

Kapanlagi.com - Culinary-themed films always have their own appeal, especially for those who love watching and indulging in food. If you are one of those people, here are some recommendations for Japanese films with culinary themes that you should add to your watchlist. These films present interesting stories set against the backdrop of the culinary world.

In addition to showcasing delicious dishes, these films also explore the meanings of culture, friendship, and dedication in the cooking world. For those of you who are curious about the combination of an interesting story and culinary delights, here are recommendations for Japanese movies with culinary themes that could be a good choice for viewing.

1. PATISSERIE COIN DE RUE (2011)

PATISSERIE COIN DE RUE (credit: mydramalist)

One of the Japanese culinary-themed films that you should try to watch is PATISSERIE COIN DE RUE. This film tells the life journey of a legendary patissier, Tomura. It is told that Tomura left the world of patisserie after reaching his peak. Eight years later, he teaches at a culinary school and writes a book.

Meanwhile, a young woman named Natsume comes to Tokyo to search for her boyfriend. In Tokyo, Natsume finds a job at a cake shop called "Patisserie Coin de Rue" run by a married couple, Yuriko and Julian. Here, Natsume meets Mariko, a talented patissier who teaches her many things about the world of cakes.

Tomura, who has now become a regular customer at the cake shop, meets Natsume and gradually, a significant change occurs in both of their lives. PATISSERIE COIN DE RUE not only highlights the beauty of the art of cake making but also presents a love story that grows in the midst of the culinary world.

2. SWEET BEAN (2015)

SWEET BEAN (credit: mydramalist)

SWEET BEAN is a Japanese culinary-themed film that focuses on the making of dorayaki, pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste. The film follows the story of a friendship between the owner of a dorayaki shop and a 76-year-old woman who holds a secret recipe for sweet red beans. This elderly woman teaches the techniques of making dorayaki with patience and perseverance, reflecting the core values of Japanese culinary culture.

The film is not only about the meticulous cooking process but also about the emotional bond that forms between two people from different backgrounds. SWEET BEAN is heartwarming with a touching story of friendship and explores the philosophy behind food made with love.

3. THE LAST RECIPE (2017)

THE LAST RECIPE (credit: mydramalist)

In THE LAST RECIPE, Mitsuru Sasaki is a famous chef who can create any dish just by tasting it once. However, after his restaurant goes bankrupt, he loses his passion for cooking. In an effort to pay off his debts, Mitsuru accepts the challenge to recreate the legendary dish Japanese Imperial Feast, which was made by Chef Naotaro Yamagata in the 1930s.

This Japanese food-themed film will tell the long journey of Mitsuru to revive the historic recipe. Along the way, Mitsuru must face significant challenges in the culinary world.

4. RESTAURANT FROM THE SKY (2019)

RESTAURANT FROM THE SKY (credit: mydramalist)

RESTAURANT FROM THE SKY is also one of the must-watch Japanese films with a culinary theme. This film tells the story of Wataru, who lives with his family in Hokkaido and manages a cattle farm and cheese workshop.

One day, a famous chef from Sapporo comes and cooks with their ingredients, inspiring Wataru and his friends to open a restaurant that serves dishes made with fresh local ingredients. They want customers to experience the same joy they feel when enjoying carefully prepared dishes.

5. FOOD LUCK! (2020)

FOOD LUCK! (credit: mydramalist)

A Japanese culinary-themed film, FOOD LUCK! tells the story of Yoshito, who was raised in his mother's yakiniku restaurant, Yasue. After his mother struggles to revive the restaurant business following a bad review, Yoshito leaves home and works as a freelance writer.

One day, he is asked to collaborate with an editor of a food site. The film raises themes about how the culinary world can change over time and the challenges faced by a child in understanding his mother's struggles.

This film not only touches on family and cuisine but also reflects how opinions and reviews can influence the culinary business.

6. GRAND MAISON PARIS (2024)

GRAND MAISON PARIS (credit: mydramalist)

Another interesting Japanese film about culinary is GRAND MAISON PARIS. This film tells the story of Obana Natsuku and Hayami Rinko's struggle to manage their new restaurant in Paris. They work hard to earn three Michelin stars, a significant challenge for chefs around the world.

In the process, they must face many difficulties, including a lack of suitable ingredients for their dishes. The film depicts the challenges faced by chefs in achieving success in the international culinary world.

These are some recommendations for interesting Japanese culinary-themed films to watch. You can watch them now, because if not now, when?

(kpl/psp)