If you're a foodie or just love a good drama, these films will take you on a journey through the intense, often chaotic world of the restaurant industry. From the heat of the kitchen to the pressures of running a successful dining establishment, these movies offer a rich tapestry of stories that will leave you both entertained and hungry for more. Here's our curated list of 10 must-watch restaurant dramas, each with its unique flavour and compelling narrative.

Mostly Martha (2001)
Description: A German film about a meticulous chef whose life is turned upside down when she must take care of her niece. It's a story of personal growth, love, and the healing power of food.
Fact: The film was remade in Hollywood as "No Reservations" with Catherine Zeta-Jones.


Ratatouille (2007)
Description: While animated, this Pixar film captures the essence of culinary passion through the story of Remy, a rat with dreams of becoming a chef in Paris. It's a delightful blend of drama, comedy, and heart, perfect for all ages.
Fact: The film's director, Brad Bird, insisted on using real chefs to voice the characters, including Thomas Keller, who provided the voice for Gusteau.


Julie & Julia (2009)
Description: This film intertwines the stories of Julia Child, the famous chef, and Julie Powell, a blogger who cooks her way through Child's cookbook. It's a celebration of food, friendship, and the joy of cooking.
Fact: Meryl Streep's portrayal of Julia Child was so accurate that she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.


Burnt (2015)
Description: Bradley Cooper plays a chef with a troubled past who aims to redeem himself by earning a third Michelin star. The film captures the high stakes and intense pressure of the culinary world, showcasing the cutthroat competition in fine dining.
Fact: The film was shot in real Michelin-starred restaurants in London, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


Chef (2014)
Description: Jon Favreau stars as a chef who, after a public meltdown, starts a food truck to rediscover his passion for cooking. This heartwarming film delves into the personal and professional challenges of the culinary world, offering a delicious blend of drama and comedy.
Fact: Favreau learned to cook for the role, and many of the dishes seen in the film were prepared by him. The film also features real-life chefs like Roy Choi and Aaron Franklin.


The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)
Description: A family from Mumbai opens an Indian restaurant in France, leading to a culinary rivalry with a Michelin-starred French restaurant across the street. This film explores cultural clashes, culinary innovation, and the universal language of food.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in France, including the picturesque town of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val.


The Menu (2022)
Description: This dark comedy-drama explores the world of high-end dining through the eyes of a chef who takes his culinary art to extreme lengths. It's a biting satire on the pretentiousness of fine dining and the lengths people will go to for a unique dining experience.
Fact: The film features a real-life chef, Dominique Crenn, who plays herself. The menu items described in the film were actually created by Crenn.


Big Night (1996)
Description: This film tells the story of two Italian brothers trying to save their struggling restaurant by hosting a lavish dinner. It's a poignant exploration of culinary ambition, family, and the immigrant experience in America.
Fact: The film features an iconic scene where Stanley Tucci and Tony Shalhoub prepare a timpano, a complex Italian dish.


The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)
Description: Peter Greenaway's film is a visually stunning and provocative exploration of power, decadence, and revenge, set in a high-end restaurant. It's a unique blend of drama, art, and culinary excess.
Fact: The film's elaborate set design and costumes were inspired by the paintings of Rembrandt and Vermeer.


A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt (2011)
Description: This documentary follows the career of avant-garde chef Paul Liebrandt, offering an insider's look at the highs and lows of the restaurant business, including the pursuit of Michelin stars.
Fact: The film captures Liebrandt's journey from obscurity to becoming one of New York's most celebrated chefs.
