Updated on January 17, 12:40 p.m. (GMT+8): Added images.
Determining the best cooking anime can be a real challenge — like trying to order from the menu at Cheesecake Factory.
While there are numerous series centered around culinary themes, only a few have gained global recognition and acclaim.
One particularly noteworthy cooking anime that undoubtedly sparks discussions among anime enthusiasts worldwide is Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma. This series captivates audiences with its engaging storyline and its array of unique, delectable dishes that serve as a source of inspiration for many.
Additionally, the combination of intriguing characters and well-executed animation results in a thoroughly enjoyable and humorous viewing experience, solidifying its position as one of the best cooking anime.
Nevertheless, cooking anime shows extend far beyond Food Wars alone. Many other options exist for fans to watch that will surely inspire them to create mouth-watering dishes in real life.
The 5 best cooking anime that will unleash the inner chef in you
- Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma
- Yakitate! Japan
- True Cooking Master Boy
- Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill
- Restaurant to Another World
Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma
Regarded as the epitome of cooking anime, Food Wars follows the journey of Soma Yukihira, an aspiring chef with ambitions of attaining culinary greatness. He enrolls at the Tootsuki Culinary Academy and embarks on a challenging path to achieve his dreams.
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This anime goes beyond merely showcasing the art of cooking extraordinary dishes. Known for its fanservice, Food Wars humors its audience with the exaggerated reactions of its characters.
Imagine clothes abruptly bursting and tearing apart, as if unable to contain the sheer pleasure experienced with a single indulgent bite. Surprisingly, angels also appear out of thin air, evoking a divine presence in response to the irresistible allure of each dish.
Moreover, this anime delves into the science behind the delectable creations, offering viewers the opportunity to unravel culinary secrets alongside Soma. With three compelling seasons to indulge in, aspiring chefs are sure to sharpen their skills, rapidly ascending the ranks enough to rival even the world’s most renowned British chef.
Watch Food Wars for free by signing up for a 30-day trial on Amazon Prime.
Yakitate! Japan
Yakitate! Japan stands out as one of the best cooking anime due to its distinctive emphasis on the world of bread-making. The series revolves around Kazuma Azuma’s journey of learning and mastering various types of bread, cakes, and all things related to the art of baking.
Considered a classic among fans who came of age in the 2000s, this anime holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Even in the present day, the mere sound of each episode’s opening line evokes an overwhelming wave of nostalgia, instantly transporting working adults back to cherished memories of yesteryear:
GET YOURS TODAY: Yakitate!! Japan Volume 1 |
“There is English bread, German bread, and French bread, but no Japanese bread. No Ja-pan! Which means we must create it now! This tale is the epic ballad of how Kazuma Azuma, the hot-blooded kid with the Hands of the Sun, created Ja-pan. A bread of the Japanese, by the Japanese, for the Japanese. A bread that Japan can boast of to the world.”
Through his unwavering ambition to craft Japan’s national bread, viewers are not only treated to an exciting culinary journey but also gain insights into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, beliefs, and traditions.
Watch Yakitate Japan for free by signing up for a 30-day trial on Amazon Prime.
True Cooking Master Boy
For anime fans who grew up in the 80s or 90s, a culinary gem that stands out is none other than True Cooking Master Boy or Chuka Ichiban.
This series revolves around the aspirations of Mao, a young boy with a relentless dream of becoming the world’s best chef. Throughout his journey, Mao traverses the globe in pursuit of the finest ingredients, embarking on a culinary adventure.
What sets True Cooking Master Boy apart is its intriguing blend of Chinese cultural influences. Given Mao’s Chinese background, the majority of the delectable dishes prepared in the series hail from Chinese cuisine.
Even to this day, True Cooking Master Boy remains a choice that should not be overlooked, offering a feast for the senses and an enriching journey into the world of gastronomy.
Watch True Cooking Master Boy on DVD, available on Amazon today.
Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill
Get isekai’d into Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill, a fresh anime series available on Netflix. This show offers a unique narrative centered around Tsuyoshi Mukouda, a salaryman who was transported into another world.
Initially burdened with the responsibility of vanquishing demons plaguing the Kingdom of Reijseger, Mukouda soon discovers a surprising twist — he lacks any combat prowess whatsoever.
GET YOURS TODAY: Restaurant to Another World Volume 1 |
However, Mukouda possesses a remarkable skill known as “Online Supermarket”, granting him the ability to procure all things modern and bring them into his newfound world. Leveraging this power, he masterfully crafts dishes that tantalize the taste buds of those around him, thanks to his exceptional culinary foundation.
Additionally, fans of Pokémon will find a delightful parallel in this anime, as the protagonist collects strong familiars throughout the series.
With an excellent animation delivered by MAPPA studio, Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill is sure to satiate your visual and gustatory senses.
If you’re looking for more MAPPA anime that isn’t Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, or Chainsaw Man, we recommend watching these four other shows.
Restaurant to Another World
Restaurant to Another World invites viewers into the enchanting world of “Nekoya,” a mystical restaurant nestled in the bustling heart of Tokyo. Throughout the weekdays, it functions like any ordinary Western eatery, catering to patrons from the human realm.
However, come Saturdays, this extraordinary establishment unveils its secret allure, welcoming a diverse array of extraordinary beings — from elegant elves to majestic dragons and charming beastmen — all gathering at Nekoya to savor its delectable offerings.
GET YOURS TODAY: Restaurant to Another World Volume 1 |
With its refreshing approach to the isekai genre, Restaurant to Another World promises to elevate your culinary journey to unprecedented heights.
Prepare to be captivated as you witness the fascinating encounters between humans and fantastical creatures, all united by their shared love for the remarkable flavors that grace Nekoya’s tables.
Watch Restaurant to Another World for free by signing up for a 30-day trial on Amazon Prime.
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