The Top 6 K-Dramas About Food, Ranked by Professional Chefs
- By Charlotte Brown
- December 11, 2024
K-dramas are captivating culinary professionals around the world—and for good reason. Chefs and restaurant staff are especially drawn to the relatable kitchen struggles, inspiring food stories, and artistic visuals these shows offer. Korean cooking competition shows have also gained traction in the culinary industry, providing ingredient, menu, and plating inspiration. After a long shift in the kitchen, these shows are the perfect way to unwind while staying connected to your craft. In this blog, the Paris Gourmet professional chefs share their favorite K-dramas about food, ranked to help you decide which to watch first.
WHAT ARE K-DRAMAS?
K-dramas, or Korean dramas, are a television series genre originating from South Korea. Renowned for their intricate plots, rich emotional depth, and high production values, they blend elements of romance, humor, drama, and even thriller in some cases. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Viki, and KOCOWA have fueled their recent popularity. These platforms allow international audiences to experience the magic of K-Dramas.
Food often plays a significant role in K-Dramas. Whether it's a cozy cafe or a bustling restaurant kitchen, K-dramas about food explore themes of love, ambition, and cultural identity in culinary settings. Their growing popularity makes them a go-to for chefs or other kitchen professionals looking for entertainment that mirrors their own passions.
RANKINGS: THE BEST K-DRAMAS ABOUT FOOD
With so many options, which K-dramas about food should you watch first? The team of professional chefs at Paris Gourmet has you covered with our top-favorite recommendations. While they’re all worthy of a watch, we’ve ranked them in order of our best picks.
#1. MY LOVELY SAM SOON
- Summary: This romantic comedy follows Sam Soon, a spirited pastry chef who takes a job at a high-end restaurant after career and personal setbacks. With a sharp tongue and undeniable baking talent, she navigates workplace drama, romance, and self-discovery. The show highlights the pressures of maintaining culinary excellence while balancing personal aspirations.
- Why Chefs Love It: This Korean drama about a chef masterfully portrays the dedication required to excel in the culinary world, with mesmerizing pastry creations that inspire dessert innovations.
- Where to Watch: Available on Viki.
#2. BREAD, LOVE AND DREAMS
- Summary: This drama centers on Kim Tak-Gu, an aspiring baker who overcomes familial strife and fierce competition to become Korea’s top baker. The series delves into the science and artistry of bread-making, showcasing the emotional connections tied to food.
- Why Chefs Love It: The intricate baking techniques and themes of perseverance and creativity resonate deeply with culinary professionals.
- Where to Watch: Stream it on KOCOWA.
#3. ITAEWON CLASS
- Summary: After a tragic setback, Park Sae-ro-yi opens a restaurant in Seoul’s trendy Itaewon district, battling corporate adversaries and personal challenges along the way. The show highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of diverse flavors in building a unique dining experience.
- Why Chefs Love It: The blend of grit, ambition, and innovative dishes mirrors the journey of many restaurateurs—making this one of the most popular K-dramas about food.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
#4. SOMETHING IN THE RAIN
- Summary: While the romance between two leads—Yoon Jin-A and Seo Joon-Hee—takes center stage, the show’s recurring food and coffee scenes offer a warm, comforting backdrop. These moments celebrate the joy of simple, well-prepared dishes and beverages.
- Why Chefs Love It: The intimate connection between food and relationships inspires chefs to create menus that foster connection and nostalgia.
- Where to Watch: Stream it on Netflix.
#5. WOULD YOU LIKE A CUP OF COFFEE?
- Summary: This is a heartfelt story about a young barista, Kang Go Bi, learning the art of coffee-making from his seasoned mentor, Park Seok. The series emphasizes craftsmanship, patience, and the importance of hospitality.
- Why Chefs Love It: The meticulous approach to coffee preparation and customer care aligns with the values of the culinary industry. Plus, of all the K-dramas about food, this one particularly demonstrates the power of mentorship and partnership in the kitchen.
- Where to Watch: Available on Viki.
#6. CHOCOLATE
- Summary: This poignant Korean drama about a chef tells the story of Moon Cha Young. She finds healing and purpose through food and her role as a chef, while she also reconnects with her childhood friend turned neurosurgeon, Lee Kang. The culinary scenes beautifully illustrate the power of food to comfort and heal.
- Why Chefs Love It: The show’s emphasis on childhood aspirations, culinary artistry, and emotional storytelling resonates with chefs who are passionate about their craft.
- Where to Watch: Stream it on Netflix.
THE RISING POPULARITY OF KOREAN COOKING COMPETITION SHOWS
Along with K-dramas, another type of entertainment is gaining attention: Korean cooking competition shows.They combine the thrill of competition with the art of culinary storytelling. These programs bring together professional chefs to battle it out in high-stakes culinary challenges. These shows are often more than entertainment for chefs and kitchen staff—they've become a source of inspiration in the culinary world.
Chefs watching these shows gain ideas for incorporating bold Korean flavors into their menus, from the viral gochujang butter recipe to unique plating techniques inspired by Korean aesthetics. As restaurant guests increasingly seek out innovative and authentic experiences, staying tuned to these trends helps chefs cater to diverse palates while pushing their creative boundaries.
A KOREAN COOKING COMPETITION SHOW YOU'LL LOVE
After you get through the K-dramas, the Paris Gourmet chefs are sharing a bonus recommendation. We’re sure you’ll enjoy their favorite Korean cooking competition show.
CULINARY CLASS WARS
This hit Korean cooking competition show pairs professional chefs with unique challenges that test their creativity, speed, and technical skills. From crafting traditional Korean dishes to creating inventive fusion plates, contestants push the boundaries of culinary excellence.
- Summary: The show gained fame for its diverse roster of participants, ranging from Michelin-starred chefs to home-cooking enthusiasts. Chefs face weekly themed challenges, judged by a panel of culinary experts. The dramatic eliminations and behind-the-scenes insights keep viewers hooked.
- Why Chefs Love It: The inventive plating ideas, flavor combinations, and competitive atmosphere are a goldmine of inspiration.
- Where to Watch: Stream it on Netflix.
HOW TO INTRODUCE KOREAN FLAVORS TO YOUR KITCHEN
If you’re feeling inspired after watching these shows, the Paris Gourmet chefs share how you can elevate your dishes with Korean-inspired ingredients.
SOY SAUCE FLAVOR PEARLS
These delicate pearls burst with umami, perfect for garnishing sushi, seafood, or salads. Create a stunning seared tuna appetizer topped with soy sauce pearls, sesame seeds, and microgreens for an elegant fusion dish.
GROUND AND CRYSTALLIZED GINGER
Add warmth and spice to both savory and sweet creations. Use ground ginger in a marinade for Korean BBQ ribs or crystallized ginger in a tangy glaze for roasted duck.
RED PEPPER FLAKES
Bring bold heat to soups, stews, or marinades. Spice up traditional kimchi fried rice with a generous sprinkle of red chili or pepper flakes, balanced by a fried egg on top.
DRIED MIXED MUSHROOMS
A versatile ingredient for broths, sauces, or stir-fries, simmer dried mushrooms with soy sauce and garlic for a rich, umami-packed base for noodle dishes or soups.
TOP-TIER INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR KOREAN-INSPIRED RECIPES
Once you’ve enjoyed these K-dramas about food and the cooking competition, explore Paris Gourmet’s full product catalog to source premium ingredients to bring your own Korean-inspired creations to life. Contact us today to learn more or place an order. Ready, set, cook—and enjoy the shows!