Bon Appétit, Your Majesty just saved me from my drama slump!
Do you even know how crazy this is for me?? It has literally been ONE whole year since I properly watched a Kdrama. Like I would start dramas, watch a few episodes, drop them, lose interest instantly 😐 nothing was sticking. I thought I was done with dramas, honestly.But then Bon Appétit, Your Majesty happened. And oh my god. I don’t even have words. I am OBSESSED. I gave it a 10/10 when there are still 8 episodes left and I don’t even care if that sounds too early because that’s how much I love it. I am hooked, like actually on the edge of my seat, counting down days for new episodes. Every single scene, every single detail is just PERFECT.
I swear I’m not exaggerating 😭 this drama singlehandedly dragged me out of the worst slump ever and I am so thankful it exists. It’s been so long since I felt this excitement, this happiness, while watching a kdrama. I’m honestly in love with it. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for this masterpiece. 🫶
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1MY FAVORITE SHOW! DONT TRUST THE BAD REVIEWS!
I will make it short but I think this is my 2nd review of a drama. First of all, DONT TRUST THE REVIEWS HERE! If you depend on reviews here to watch a drama, stop watching dramas. THIS IS THE BEST DRAMA I'VE SEEN IN A WHILE! It brought me back and many others from the slump! it's been years for me.I finished the show yesterday, and here I came expecting very high ratings but huh??? what is with the hate forced comments?!!!! I was shocked! I truly believe you should give the show a try without depending on reviews and I am sure it won't disappoint. From the beginning to the final episode it did not disappoint AT ALL. The show made me love the actors and they were all memorable, loved the food and how to enjoy it. Also, it made fall in love with the fantasy and history themed dramas more!
Everything was so good, the story, the actors, their acting, the food, the comedy, the fantasy and historical aspect, the slow burn romance, the chemistry, the ending like overall it is a must watch! the only thing that disappointed me was the show ending too fast and I am attached right now. So please give it a try!!
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Wherein Coldness Yields to Affection, and Wounds Bloom into Love
It is with a most tender heart that I endeavour to set down my thoughts on ‘Bon Appétit, Your Majesty’. The drama bewitched me entirely: I smiled, I sighed, and I found myself counting the days until Saturday as one might count the hours until a beloved visit.Yeon Jiyeong was presented with a simplicity of truth that won me at once. She is strong, determined, hard-working and responsible — qualities not ostentatious, but admirable all the same. Her amiability, together with a ready humour and the genuine warmth of her friendship, made her magnetically agreeable; she seemed less a stranger upon the screen than a companion I had longed to know.
King Yiheon was first shown as a young gentleman of sarcastic tongue and frosty manner, a mask of disdain that kept others at bay. Yet, as the tale proceeded, it became apparent that this exterior sheltered a heart sorely scarred. Beneath that guarded bearing there lay nobility and much suffering; and to witness Yeon Jiyeong, by patience and affection, turn those wounds into blooming fragments of love was as touching as any gentle transformation one could desire.
I confess a weakness for romances wrapped in a little fantasy: such things stir within me a delicious, childlike sense of wonder, and I do not demand rigid logic so much as the warmth of a happy ending. This drama obliged me in both delight and consolation. I devoured each episode as one might a birthday cake, replete with whipped cream and strawberries, and often felt the impulse to step through the screen and administer a brisk dose of common sense to certain ill-natured characters.
In brief, ‘Bon Appétit, Your Majesty’ has taken up a cosy corner of my affections. It is a story I shall most assuredly revisit, for it leaves the heart light and the imagination a little more willing to believe in gentle miracles.
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1This review may contain spoilers
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty: Living Around the Table
I never expected that a plot about a chef who travels back to the Joseon era and is challenged to win over the palate of a tyrant would captivate me so deeply! When I saw the first previews, all I could think was how random it seemed yet I couldn’t help but feel curious. It looked fun.I didn’t know I needed a historical time-travel drama just to start following the fearless and talented Yeon Jiyeong, who wisely did what she knew best: winning hearts through flavor. Full of eloquent words and boldness, Chef Yeon Jiyeong is both charming and solitary. She was alone in Paris, about to return to Korea to reunite with her father, when a strange recipe book in her hands transported her to a time that wasn’t hers or was it? I loved the air of mystery the story builds around her connection to the king and the era. The loop effect is so captivating.
In contrast to the chef’s boldness, we have the hot-tempered King Yiheon, a historical figure known for his violent rule and unstable temperament yet with a refined and sensitive palate, fertile ground for a chef brimming with technique.
The plot stayed true to its premise from beginning to end. The story had already happened, so they simply decided: “Then let’s cook!!” And so, the tensions grew around the table rather than through fiery competitions, with mouthwatering dishes. Amid pots and bites, the characters matured and learned from their own mistakes.
I was enchanted by every character and the bonds formed throughout the episodes the warm friendship between Chef Yeon Jiyeong and Gilgeum, the kitchen allies, the court jester (who was no fool), and most of all, the restorative love with His Majesty. It was beautiful, sincere, deeply touching, and the ending was both humorous and heartwarming.
👩🍳💖👑
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Cooking Up Love in Joseon — Why Bon Appétit, Your Majesty Stole My Heart (and Appetite)
Honestly, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty was such a pleasant surprise. It’s one of those dramas that feels cozy yet emotional, funny yet romantic — like a warm meal on a rainy day. The story of a modern chef accidentally ending up in the Joseon era sounds wild, but it somehow works so beautifully. Watching her cook with so much heart and seeing the king slowly fall for her — not just because of the food, but because of her kindness — was just so sweet. A lot of people said there wasn’t much chemistry between them, but I have to disagree. Their connection grew so naturally; you could feel it through the smallest glances, shy smiles, and quiet moments over food. It wasn’t flashy, but it was real.The visuals were stunning — every dish looked so rich and comforting that I swear I was hungry half the time. And the king’s reactions when he tasted her food? Priceless. You could literally see his walls breaking down one bite at a time. The ending left me with such a warm, content feeling — not overly dramatic, just perfectly wrapped up. Sure, a few scenes felt rushed and some side stories could’ve been explored more, but overall, it’s such a beautiful, comforting drama. If you love food, romance, and a good story about healing and love that grows slowly but deeply, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is a must-watch. 💛
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Beautifully Plated, Emotionally Underseasoned
I love shows centered around food, and Bon Appetit, Your Majesty completely delivers on that front. It’s artistically and aesthetically stunning, every meal looked so delicious it had me wishing I could reach through the screen and taste it. Full points from me for that aspect; they absolutely nailed the presentation.But once you take the food away, the show doesn’t have much to lean on. Im Yoon-ah was exceptional, she’s truly come a long way from being barely noticeable in The K2 to confidently leading a series built entirely around her. As much as I liked Lee Chae-min, I think the story needed an older actor to pull off the tyrant king aura. The pairing felt mismatched, and the romance never developed naturally. The show just suddenly expects us to believe the female lead is deeply in love.
I’ve also never been a fan of “evil tyrant kings” getting redemption arcs just because they had tragic childhoods. Trauma doesn’t excuse cruelty, and Bon Appetit, Your Majesty really wanted us to forgive him too easily just because the female lead softened him.
On the brighter side, I loved the supporting characters. They were earnest, endearing, and the most human of all. Watching the evil ones get their due was deeply satisfying. And honestly, I appreciated that the show didn’t waste time trying to justify how the king ended up in the future. It’s fantasy, no one needs a scientific explanation; we just want a happy, satisfying ending. More fantasy dramas could definitely take notes from that.
A drama that looks five-star but tastes more like a simple comfort meal; satisfying, but not unforgettable.
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MY FAV ABOUT THIS DRAMA IS THE ACTING❤️! BEST KDRAMA 2025!
Character:Yoona did an outstanding job playing a modern girl who suddenly finds herself in the past. I loved how naturally she treated everyone equally, not out of disrespect, but simply because she came from the modern world. Yoona portrayed her role with this innocent charm and pure intentions, which is exactly what drew the king’s attention. Some people question why a so-called tyrant king would be so forgiving when she seems rude. But just look at her character! She’s not being rude; she’s just being sincere, open, and not two-faced. That’s what makes her stand out, and everyone around her loves her. She's the kind of person to turn an enemy into friends.
Lee Chae Min is doing a great job portraying a young king. Historically, kings, even at a young age, were expected to be mature, and I think he captures that really well. The way he speaks and carries himself feels calm and wise. On top of that, his visuals are really charming and suit this role perfectly. He truly looks the part and brings a quiet strength to the character.
Acting:
Yoona's acting is superb!! This is actually the first time I have really liked her performance out of all her dramas.
But Lee Chae Min’s acting? My absolute favorite. You can literally feel all the bitterness, frustration, and sadness just from his expressions all at once. And don’t even get me started on the way he looks at Ji Young, full of love. That whole “you can tell a man is in love by the way he looks at you” thing? Yeah, exactly that. I’ve honestly never seen someone act so much with just their eyes. I seriously can’t wait to see more of his projects in the future!
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Strong Start - Weak Middle - Strong End
I wrote this review when we were in the middle of the Ming cook-off and I wasn't sure if they could redeem it. But quite honestly, the last few episodes were perfect! They wrapped up the story line well and I love a happy ending. Bit confused though how he is in the future. Like was he reincarnated with his memories? Or was he sent to the future with her? If so, how did he adjust on his own so quickly and so well that he was dressed in fancy clothes? I guess we'll leave it to the imagination.Original rating 8/12 episodes watched: 6.5/10
New rating FINISHED: 8/10
The good:
- It's really funny and quite clever as well. Obviously the writers know a lot about cooking and the Joseon period to know what recipes she would be able to make and how she would need to change them
- The romance in the first few episodes were so cute
- The acting is great
- Love the side characters and in the first few episodes it really felt like they were adding a lot to the plot
The bad:
- Genuinely... what is with this 4 episode long cooking battle. When I finished the most recent episode (episode 8) I genuinely needed to remind myself how we got here. What is happening to the King's revenge plot? We haven't seen FL and her bestie talk at all recently and we keep getting like 2 second clips on what the evil queen is plotting but really it's not anything, she's just seething about what they're doing. This wouldn't matter if it was one or two episodes, BUT 4 out of 12?!?!
- Kind of feels like the writers wanted to show off how much they know about cooking??
The confusing:
- I get that they are trying to make cooking a central point in the plot but it's kind of unconvincing how they're going about it. Sorry but who has ever had a cook off to decide which nation would be providing more in a trade agreement.
- Why are the Ming chefs also martial artists? Who has the time to perfect cooking and also perfect their fighting?
I really think I could have just ignored the bad and confusing parts if this damn cooking battle didn't take over the entire show but alas, here we are.
They're going to need a miracle for me to bring my rating up.
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Lee Chaemin may be a rookie, but he delivered a sincere and heartfelt performance, bringing boyish charm and vulnerability that made his character so relatable, while Im YoonA shined as always with her elegance, versatility, and emotional depth. Their chemistry was natural and heart-fluttering, slowly growing in a way that felt genuine rather than forced. The cinematography and OST elevated the story even more, with the food scenes shot so beautifully that they almost felt poetic.
Finally, I got my revenge — when Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo didn’t give me the happy ending I desperately wanted, Bon Appétite Your Majesty gave it to me in the sweetest and most healing way possible. It left me smiling, tearing up at times, and ultimately feeling comforted, just like finishing a delicious home-cooked meal made with love.
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A fantasy show that doesn't take itself too seriously while making you hungry, angry and laugh.
Bon appétit, Your Majesty was, for me, one of those limited series that made me disappointed at episode 10. Not because of its content; it was because, sadly, there were only 2 shows remaining.Yes, it reminds you a little of "Mr. Queen," but if you are a "Mr. Queen" fan, then that is a good thing! Many who have watched more than 5 K-dramas should know that "Mr. Queen" is by far not the first Joseon time travel series and surely, its not the last. So let's move on and just enjoy.
I enjoyed the production. It really seemed as if the writer(s), director, and cast had a blast making this. Strong emphasis was placed on food and cooking. It was as if food itself was a very important part of the cast. I found all of those scenes interesting, inviting, and sometimes funny with the addition of special effects. I give many props not only to Lim Yoon A's performance (as I did in King the Land) but also to Lee Chae Min's portrayal as King Yi Heon. Honorable mention should go to Yeon Seo Ah as Ji Yeon's sidekick Seo Geum. I thought she provided a nice balance of comic relief and glue as her adorable bestie (for lack of a better word).
The seriousness blended with spots of humor was enjoyable. The villains were convincing. Credit to the writing and pacing for the execution of all of these elements. If you enjoy fantasy themes with great acting and elements of humor and tense moments, you will enjoy "Bon Appetit, Your Majesty."
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The story follows Yeon Ji-yeong (Im Yoon-ah), a modern chef with a successful career in French haute cuisine. Unexpectedly, a solar eclipse and a mysterious cookbook transport her 500 years back in time, directly to the Joseon Dynasty.
There, she meets King Yi Heon (Lee Chae-min), a young monarch feared as a tyrant yet known for his exquisite palate. What begins as a tense encounter turns into a forced alliance: she must cook a new and satisfying dish for the king every day or face execution.
The drama’s strongest point is the undeniable chemistry between YoonA and Lee Chae-min. Their relationship evolves in a fun and engaging way, moving from conflict and orders to genuine affection. The king, initially volatile and demanding, gradually softens thanks to Ji-yeong’s cooking and indomitable spirit.
Food as a Character: The cooking scenes are visually stunning. The drama turns food into the driving force of the story, using Ji-yeong’s dishes (like Butter Gochujang Bibimbap or Doenjang pasta) as a bridge between two worlds and a way to heal the king’s emotional trauma.
While it touches on themes of politics and tyranny (the king’s character is loosely based on the infamous King Yeonsangun), the overall tone is that of a fantasy romantic comedy. The drama doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it perfect for a fun binge-watch.
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is a highly recommended K-drama if you’re looking for a historical romance with a modern twist and plenty of comedy. It’s a high-quality production, with dazzling costumes and feasts, that will captivate you with the adorable chemistry between the leads and leave you craving the delicious “Joseon-French fusion.”
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If you like cooking and food this is for you
If you like food and cooking this is for you. This is primarily a cooking based drama.If you like slice of life you'll probably enjoy this more than if you're looking for the following:
If you want mostly palace politics this might disappoint you.
If you want a very fleshed out romance story with a good progression this might also disappoint you.
I feel like a lot of people got disappointed by the fact this is not more romance heavy (and I completely understand those that got lied by Netflix's tagging system, it wouldn't be the first time) or that it doesn't follow the typical saeguk format.
Personally I'm not that into saeguk to be annoyed by the way the plot flows here, and while it's true the romance is patchy and segmented, overall in the end it worked decently, not perfectly but good enough and I was generally satisfied with the ending. Probably it helped that I like slice of life, comedy, cooking, food and romance, so unless they were going to completely butcher the story it was going to be hard for me to dislike it.
To be honest for me the food and the expressions when eating were already a big part of what made me enjoy this drama. The scenes when they put the food in their mouths is wholesome pop-culture poetry. Seriously, if you enjoy cooking and food shots this is the drama for you, and the scenes of them eating it and transcending to another plane of existence were so funny.
I guess this drama had a lot of elements I've always enjoyed in stories, like main character being spirited away to a world of fantasy or somewhere else in time where she has to find a way to survive.
I overall also enjoyed all the characters here, some where a bit more cliché, others were stereotypical, there were certain discrepancies between ML himself and what he was known as, and at some points the FL seemed a bit inconsistent personality wise (between strong willed and damsel in distress), but I give them a pass because generally everything fit quite well for me, and it entertained me without anyone in particular being annoying or getting on my nerves.
Special mention to the character of court lady Choi Mal Im, she says barely anything in the whole drama but her expressions when tasting the king's food alone where precious.
Things I didn't enjoy as much and reason it's not a 10 for me:
- First and foremost the accents of the Ming envoy, it was grating to the ears and it was bad taste, especially when it's a few episodes. It was simply bad. I'm sure they could have taken Chinese actors for the roles, or dub them, or simply don't make it an envoy from the Ming and make them Korean guests of wherever.
- It leaves you with a bad taste that this king is based on a real historical figure and knowing what he did. Why didn't they just make up a king? Is it because FL needs to know about him? It's fantasy so they could just as well had done it anyway using made up names and history. I don't understand the reasoning but it's not very good taste. I know personally that if they had done the same with a king from my country's past I would be pretty pissed. It's almost excusing what he and those around him did. I'm very deliberately choosing to think of this as pure fantasy since despite this I enjoyed it, but ughhhhh.
- As mentioned the romance is a bit more background here and while it's generally ok-ish, it could have been better if they had shown more of a progression, especially when it comes to FL. I think we generally have it with ML and it was cute to see how he was falling for her but on her part it was quite sudden and it didn't flow quite well, what is a shame.
- It's a secret how the king ended up in the future and obviously we can guess it has to do with that page that was torn from the book, but also I want to know exactly? It felt a bit lazy and overall the ending felt rushed.
- The Ming envoy episodes should have been like one, two maximum.
Nitpicking:
- Not a fan of having the same actors in the future like "oh they might be descendants", like sure, it's fantasy but it always makes my eyes roll.
- There are certain plotholes or parts that could have been explained or shown better, and they would have had the time if they had made the Ming ordeal shorter, for starters.
- I thought maybe the king would appear in the future in her room in front of her or something in those lines and I would have preferred it. He knows nothing about the future, how does he even know what is fashionable at the time and how did he get the clothes anyway, how did he find her, how did he get money... Too many questions.
- The wound FL gets at the back from the uncle with the sword makes no sense. It was very superficial. Does anyone die from a slash in the back? From infection or depth of the wound sure, but that looked so superficial it was hard to believe. Not the first time I've seen it in a drama and it always makes my eyes roll as well.
The ending was generally predictable for me from the moment it was established that the king died/disappeared in the past, it was easy enough to conclude that he would end in the future. This didn't diminish the enjoyment for me as I preferred that kind of ending to the alternative of having a tragic ending, I have enough of that in real life.
As a conclusion, unless you like cooking and food you might not enjoy this, the rest of plot points take a step back for the main topic. I think that while it follows a bit certain clichés, tropes and character's personalities that we have seen before and are not new by any means, the cooking aspect and the food as well as the way is presented give it enough of a twist for me to find this entertaining and overall very enjoyable, with enough of a progression and a decent ending.
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