Who here loves eating while watching Netflix series? It’s truly the best to enjoy meals while watching light, easy-to-digest, and endlessly rewatchable Netflix series. Here’s a list of Japanese Netflix series perfect for accompanying your dinner, ranked based on the best ratings.
Spoiler Alert 🚨
1. Midnight Diner and Midnight Diner Tokyo Stories (18+)
This series tells the stories of customers at an izakaya (Japanese bar) that operates from midnight to 7 a.m. The owner, nicknamed “Master,” is always the central figure in these stories. Master often acts as a mediator or the wise problem-solver for the dilemmas or issues faced by the izakaya’s patrons.
Solutions often come through “nostalgic meals” or from Master’s nuggets of wisdom, seen as the words of an experienced elder who has endured many of life’s hardships.
This series reminds us that everyone has their own problems, differing only in form and timing. In line with the warmth of an izakaya tucked in a Tokyo alleyway, every issue eventually finds resolution. Although not all problems end happily, some can only be accepted with an open heart as part of life.
On Netflix, this Japanese series is adapted from a manga and consists of two parts: Midnight Diner and Midnight Diner Tokyo Stories. Some mysteries remain unsolved, such as “Why does Master have a scar on his face?” and “Who is the woman who always visits him during New Year?” I personally hope there will be a continuation of these two series. Fingers crossed!
2. Japanese Netflix Series – Izakaya Botakuri
This series revolves around two beautiful sisters who inherit an izakaya from their parents. The elder sister has a strong ambition to serve her customers wholeheartedly, ensuring that their money spent at the izakaya feels worthwhile.
Every dish has its own story, and the process of preparing food becomes a reflection of various aspects of life. The sisters serve their customers with full dedication. In one episode, a man seeks shelter from the rain after the izakaya has closed, but the owner still serves him with utmost care. If I were treated that way, I’d definitely catch feelings—haha!
Although the story is engaging and visually delightful, the series has very few episodes. Netflix should include more films like this in its collection. Let’s hope they do!
3. The Makanai – Cooking for the Maiko House
This series portrays the friendship of two teenage girls aspiring to become Geiko (Kyoto-style Geisha). Their shared ambition is challenged when one of them lacks the talent to pursue the path of a Geiko. Does she give up? Does she succumb to a harsh life? Oh, certainly not.
The girl who doesn’t have the talent finds a new purpose in life, even if it’s not as a Geiko. She continues her profession with a smile and without regrets.
This series is perfect for those who feel lost in their life’s purpose. Perhaps after watching this, you’ll discover your true calling and the reason to keep moving forward. Visually, the series delights with its depiction of traditional Japanese houses and cityscapes.
4. The Road to Red Restaurant List
Having a complete and financially stable family doesn’t always guarantee happiness (although it might help). Feeling neglected by his wife and daughter, who often attend K-Pop concerts, a husband embarks on a culinary journey to discover legendary dishes across Japan.
Living the monotonous life of an office worker can feel robotic. To avoid becoming a “Google robot” and to reclaim his humanity, he escapes his routine by diving into the world of food. On weekends, while his wife and daughter are at idol concerts, he plans short escapes to visit legendary eateries.
The man turns his minivan into both transportation and lodging during his culinary adventures. Along the way, he meets restaurant owners and fellow travelers with unique stories.
This series showcases Japan’s stunning landscapes, from coastlines to mountains. It’s a light-hearted story filled with deep meaning.
5. Japanese Netflix Series – Samurai Gourmet
The story of a retired man seeking new passions after retirement. No, he doesn’t turn to negative outlets; instead, he channels his energy into a culinary adventure, visiting restaurants he’s never explored before.
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The story is light and sometimes depicts him imagining himself as a samurai in past eras. That’s why I’ve included this as the final must-watch recommendation.
Key takeaway
The common thread among these five Japanese Netflix series is always food and memories. It could be the food your mother cooked, meals shared with friends and loved ones, snacks enjoyed during romantic moments, or dishes that comforted you during tough times. Amazingly, food can serve as a marker of key moments in your life. So, let’s eat—don’t forget to finish your meal!
Similar stories (Not included in the list but worth checking out):
- The Way of The Hot & Spicy
- Rokuhoudou
- Moco’s Kitchen
- Kantaro – The Sweet Tooth Salaryman
