Samurai Gourmet

Samurai Gourmet is a delightful and relaxing Japanese drama series which first debuted on Netflix in 2017. The show is an adaptation of Masayuki Kusumi's manga of the same name. Widely admired for its simple yet engaging storytelling approach; it offers viewers a lighthearted escape into the world of food, tradition and self-discovery. At the heart of the series is 60-year-old Kasumi Takeshi, a recent retiree trying to find his footing in the vast expanse of newfound free time. After years of diligent service, Takeshi awakes one day to realize that he no longer has the familiar corporate routine to follow, no pressing deadlines, no meetings. Instead, what he is left with are hours upon hours of unscheduled time. Initially, he's rather clueless about how to fill his days, how to replace the sense of purpose that his job gave him. But, he soon discovers the joy of gourmet food and develops an exceptional appreciation of everyday dishes. Samurai Gourmet explores Takeshi's solo dining experiences in casual eateries and upmarket restaurants around his neighborhood. He becomes passionate about food and relishes each meal, savoring mundane dishes with the same excitement as the gourmet ones. The show chronicles his culinary journeys around Tokyo, his encounters with various cuisines, chefs and fellow diners. The presentation of the food is detailed and visually compelling, leaving viewers with a sudden craving for Japanese cuisine. A unique aspect of Samurai Gourmet is the imaginary samurai, who appears from time to time to guide Takeshi. Whenever Takeshi finds himself in a moral or social dilemma, unsure of the correct etiquette or feels too timid to assert himself, his imagined samurai alter-ego steps in. This samurai, who embodies the free-spirited, fearless ethos of medieval Japanese warriors, imparts wisdom and advises Takeshi to follow his heart, not the societal norms. It's through these fantasy sequences that the show subtly explores the cultural nuances and social pressures that shape Japanese society. The character of Takeshi is endearing. He is a typical everyman, hands thrown up in wide-eyed wonderment at the flavor revelations he encounters. His eagerness to learn new aspects of food culture and his humility make viewers empathize with him. The performance of Naoto Takenaka, who portrays the lead role, perfectly captures Takeshi’s endearing awkwardness, his childlike discovery, and his humor. Each episode of Samurai Gourmet offers a standalone story revolving around a specific meal or culinary experience. The viewer watches as Takeshi relishes in the simple ecstasy of a cold beer on a hot day, savors the complexity of a traditional Japanese breakfast, or discovers a nostalgic delight in a rare dish from his childhood. Yet, within each of these food-focused tales, the series also delves into larger issues. Samurai Gourmet serves up portions of life lessons like embracing change, finding joy in little things, letting go of inhibitions, and age being just a number, making it more than just a food-centric show. Despite being deeply grounded in Japanese culinary traditions and societal norms, Samurai Gourmet is a series that has universal appeal. This is because at its core, it is a celebration of life, food, culture, and everyday joy. Takeshi's journey of self-discovery through gourmet food is a richly emotional and gastronomically compelling experience that transcends cultural boundaries. The show's laid-back narrative and serene ambiance make it an ideal watch for those seeking a soothing, yet engaging TV experience. Samurai Gourmet is an aesthetically pleasing series with its attractive cinematography, making the meals quite the visual treats. The picturesque landscapes of Tokyo serve as the alluring backdrop while subtle, ambient music accentuates the feel-good vibes. In essence, Samurai Gourmet is a nuanced portrayal of a man redefining his identity in retirement, using food as a catalyst for invoking sparks of self-appreciation, resilience, curiosity, and most importantly, the understanding of life's simple pleasures. This distinctive blend of deliciously tantalizing food, subtle humor, and a fresh perspective on life makes it a must-watch for food lovers and those seeking heartwarming, unique storytelling.

Samurai Gourmet is a series categorized as a currently airing. Spanning 1 seasons with a total of 12 episodes, the show debuted on 2017. The series has earned a mostly positive reviews from both critics and viewers. The IMDb score stands at 8.1.