The Guardian

Netflix’s Samurai Gourmet: hypnotically dreamy show makes kitchens feel like Neverland

In this spellbinding, lovingly shot series, a recently retired man decides to eat something new every day – and captivates your senses along the way
‘If I can enjoy any food as much as he does, I think I’ll be alright’: Naoto Takenaka in Samurai Gourmet. Photograph: Netflix

A month into isolation I found myself hypnotised by the slowly slithering oil slicks on top of some freshly made chicken broth. I forgot about Covid-19, the friends and family I missed, and even the crusty bits on my share house stove. That unctuous soup filled my entire universe, and for a minute, I felt at peace. I also felt like I was in an episode of Netflix’s

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