Dating in the Kitchen

"Dating in the Kitchen" is a charming romantic comedy series that was melodramatically presented and made available for viewing by Wang Juan Media in 2020. Inspired by Lan Bai Se's novel, "Finally, I Get You," the 24-episode show was released on Tencent Video and WeTV for an international audience. It benefits from an engaging storyline, beautifully shot culinary scenes, beautiful locations, outstanding performances, and the central theme: the fusion of love and food.

Essentially, the story orbits around Gu Shengnan, a gifted young chef, and Lu Jin, a wealthy, disciplined hotelier. Their worlds collide in a symphony of taste and affection, offering a palate-teasing and heart-warming journey for viewers. The show orchestrates a harmonious union of seemingly opposite elements, much like the fusion of different ingredients to create a unique culinary masterpiece.

Shengnan has an inexpressible ardour for cooking - concocting dishes that not only stimulate the palate but also convey her emotions and moods. However, her unwavering passion for food contrasts sharply with her haphazard, playful personality and her chaotic personal life.

On the other hand, Lu Jin's character is an immaculate, a meticulous and mysterious businessman. He is a man of refined tastes unsure of, who finds the least bit of disarray completely unacceptable. Yet, beneath this perfect exterior hides a man with an insatiable fascination for flavours and gastronomy, dictating his obsessions and triggering the emotional evolution of his character.

Their dramatically different lives interweave when Lu Jin arrives in Shengnan's city, initially to acquire a hotel but finding himself captivated by the remarkable array of dishes served at the hotel where Shengnan works. Unbeknownst to him, the unworldly and "insignificant" young chef is the mysterious master behind those extraordinary delicacies that pique his curiosity and made an unprecedented impression on his discerning taste buds.

"Dating in the Kitchen" brings forth the unique Chinese culinary culture and the essential role it plays in the day-to-day life and the traditional celebrations of the Chinese people. From intricate and opulent banquets to the casual and comforting street food, the series provides a delightful immersive experience into the world of Chinese cuisine. There is an enticing beauty in how the subtleties of each dish reflect Shengnan's purposes and emotions, with each culinary creation representing her true artistry and spirit.

The screenplay adaptation by Chen Tong, the series' screenwriter, provides great depth to the characters and their interactions, painting a vivid picture of the brewing romance and the slowly merging worlds of Shengnan and Lu Jin. Directed by Chen Chang, "Dating in the Kitchen" is masterfully portrayed, absorbing the audience into the tale, employing a delightful blend of humour, drama, romance, and gastronomy.

Starring Zhao Lusi as Gu Shengnan and Lin Yushen as Lu Jin, "Dating in the Kitchen" offers a buffet of acting expertise that is witnessed in the sincere portrayal of their characters. Their onscreen chemistry makes it easy to root for their unconventional, yet intensely charming love story that's brewing amidst the culinary chaos. The supporting cast, including a medley of characters providing comic relief, tension, and added complications, instills more flavour and depth into the mix.

What sets this series apart from other romantic comedies is its seductively delicious culinary finery, which serves as a metaphor linking food with emotions and life charms. Each dish made by Gu Shengnan is like a poem of passion, aspiration, or sadness; and the way Lu Jin appreciates these creations can subtly reflect his own feelings and the development of their unique relationship.

"Dating in the Kitchen" is certainly a gastronomic spectacle, blending food, love, and drama in an alluring recipe that leaves a lingering taste of both sweetness and spice. For foodies, it's a visual thrill—an invitation to salivate over exquisite and often innovative Chinese dishes. For the romantics, it’s a rich, delectable, love-filled banquet. Despite being rooted in astonishment and humour, the series is not without its share of emotional moments and reflective life lessons. This show is a definite must-watch, promising an enthralling viewing experience set amidst the backdrop of China's vibrant culinary scene. It serves as a charming reminder that, just as in cooking, love unfolds in its own time, often delivering unexpected but delightful flavours.