When Food Outshines Everything Else in a K-Drama
After 6 episodes, one thing is very clear: this show is only about food. There’s no real story, no acting depth, nothing beyond the gastronomy. The slapstick comedy feels like the thousandth recycled version of similar shows, and the acting isn’t helping either—especially Yoona, who has been exaggerating her expressions since the very first episode. Once or twice it’s tolerable, but all the time? It quickly becomes tiring.Lee Chaemin is decent so far, and since this is his first lead role in a major production, I don’t want to scrutinize him too harshly—I’ll wait to see how he progresses.
Now to chemistry, the dynamic between the leads feels more like siblings squabbling than a couple in the making. If the story does head toward romance (if there even is one), I’m not convinced they can deliver the needed intensity. At best, it may end up looking like two attractive actors sharing the frame rather than two characters genuinely in love. And honestly, that has always been the case with Yoona—her on-screen chemistry often feels more hyped than real, usually reduced to how well her visuals “match” with her co-star rather than any genuine emotional connection. Unfortunately, history seems to be repeating itself here.
The reasons people like this drama are simple: (1) "The Food". The gastronomy scenes are beautifully shot and guaranteed to make you crave something to eat. Most of the online comments under this drama are about how delicious the food looks and how well it’s presented or eaten—hardly anyone talks about anything else.
(2) "The Timing". With all the major dramas scheduled for mid-to-late September, this show has no real rivals. By the time the competition arrives, this one will be wrapping up, so it’s enjoying a free ride on timing and food appeal.
And now, the elephant in the room: I wish the creators had been clear about which Joseon king they based this on. If it really is the problematic figure people are speculating, then the whole premise is disturbing. How can anyone, even in fiction, imagine falling for a rapist and murderer? What were the creators thinking? 🤨 Even worse, audiences are raving about this show without considering what kind of message it sends.Honestly, it’s disappointing.
Overall, this is a no-brainer watch. If you like food, you’ll enjoy it—because the food is excellent here. But beyond that, the show offers nothing substantial, and I highly doubt that will change in the upcoming episodes.
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