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China, renowned for its rich culinary tradition, has inspired the creation of many culinary-themed films. In this article, Mytour suggests the top 10 best Chinese chef movies for you. Enjoy your movie moments!
#1. Happy Ever After (1999) – Path of Culinary Mastery
Happy Ever After, released over 20 years ago, remains a must-watch Chinese chef movie. The story unfolds in a town outside the bustling city, where Bat Bao Lau, a famous eatery, resides. Owner Doi Dong Quan may not cook, but his discerning palate makes the restaurant renowned.
In his quest to excel in the culinary competition, Mr. Do sought out a new chef, Ms. Lương Tiểu Tiểu, renowned for her spicy tofu dish. Consequently, the restaurant gained more popularity and attracted a larger clientele. However, unexpectedly, a neighboring establishment opened with a similar spicy tofu dish, sparking intense competition.
#2. The God of Cookery (1996) – Culinary Deity
This is one of Hong Kong's finest comedies starring Stephen Chow, featuring familiar faces such as Vincent Kok, Karen Mok, Ng Man-tat, and Theresa Lee. Chow portrays a young master known as the 'god of cookery' in the culinary world, highly revered by many. Due to malicious schemes, he loses his esteemed title and falls into despair. Overcoming numerous obstacles, he rebuilds his reputation by innovating with new dishes of his own creation.
#3. Cook Up A Storm (2017) – Battle of Culinary Titans
Cook Up A Storm is a captivating culinary film. It follows the journey of Cao Thien Tu (Tạ Đình Phong) as he pursues his culinary passion. Abandoned as a child, he was raised by Master Hong Thất and became a skilled chef, running the ancestral Thất Ký restaurant. One day, he receives a challenge from foreign chef Paul Ahn. After their showdown, they become friends and compete together in a culinary challenge.
#4. This Is Not What I Expected (2017) – User Manual for Men
This romantic comedy is adapted from the novel 'User Manual for Men.' It revolves around Lo Tan (Kaneshiro Takeshi), a businessman, and Thang Nam (Châu Đông Vũ), the sous chef of a famous Western restaurant. Thang Nam is secretly dating the hotel manager. However, when the hotel faces a crisis, Lo Tan buys it, and Thang Nam must prove his culinary skills to the new owner. Their humorous and touching journey brings them closer together.
At that time, Thang Nam was in a secret relationship with the hotel manager. But not long after, the hotel faced a crisis, and his girlfriend wanted to break up. Just then, Lo Tan arrived at the hotel and bought it. Thang Nam had to prove his cooking ability to the new owner. The hilarious and touching situations brought them closer together day by day.
#5. Eat Drink Man Woman (1994) - Cuisine of Love
Cuisine of Love is a culinary film directed by Ang Lee. Master Chef Chu has three beautiful daughters, and every Sunday, he prepares a delicious meal for them. They gather around, sharing stories of their daily lives. The film revolves around cooking, life stories, conflicts, and contrasts, offering reflections on the philosophy of life.
#6. Kung Fu Chefs (2009) – Culinary Kung Fu
Culinary Kung Fu is a remarkable culinary film starring Hong Kong superstar Kim Bao. It uniquely combines kung fu martial arts and the art of cooking. Apart from its engaging storyline, Culinary Kung Fu boasts stunning visual effects. The cooking process is beautifully captured, while the kung fu techniques are graceful, powerful, and versatile.
#7. Dating In The Kitchen (2020) – Love From the Stomach
Love From the Stomach is a romantic drama series that has gained immense popularity recently. A television adaptation of 'User Manual for Men,' it tells the story of Thang Nam, a talented sous chef, and the domineering CEO Lo Tan. This version promises to bring you more interesting and humorous situations involving the Thang Nam – Lo Tan couple.
#8. Delicious Destiny (2017) – Tasty Fate
Tasty Fate is a romantic tale of Lý Vũ Triết, a chef passionate about Western cuisine, and Tống Giai Minh, a culinary program editor. They meet on a cooking show and quickly become archrivals due to their contrasting personalities. However, over time, they find harmony and develop feelings for each other.
#9. The Chef (2017) – Culinary Duel
Once hailed as a culinary genius, Dam Nhat Pham was admired by many. However, after a defeat in a past showdown, he retreated into seclusion. Years later, Ha The Long, his former apprentice whom he once expelled, returns to settle old scores. But now, Nhat Pham has lost his sense of taste entirely...
#10. The Chinese Feast (1995) – Golden Delights
Golden Delights is a film that combines the theme of cuisine with the classic comedic storytelling of Hong Kong cinema. The story revolves around Kit, a master chef who has won numerous awards and is hailed as the greatest Chinese chef. When participating in a cooking competition, Kit finds himself in a difficult situation, torn between career aspirations and his love for someone.
Here are the top 10 Chinese chef movies selected by Mytour. Which movie do you like the most on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section!
