Midnight Diner Review: A Delectable Meal of Poignant Tales!

Every day we come across multiple TV shows streaming across Netflix and Amazon. There are several shows which build curiosity that you can’t help, but, binge-watch them. But, there are only a selective few which allow you to sit back and enjoy like you embrace a seven course meal at the restaurant of your choice. Welcome to Midnight Diner, Bon Appétit! Set in Tokyo, Midnight Diner is a Japanese anthology series streaming on Netflix based on the manga of the same name. Every episode begins with the chef/owner telling us about the strange working hours of the restaurant (12 AM – 7 AM) and the pride he holds in having more customers than anybody could expect.

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The chef is referred to as The Master in the series. His character is so beautifully crafted and it speaks volumes about his personality. Due to his subtle demeanor, his patrons share their stories about him and The Master looks like that friend listens without judgment, no matter what. At the beginning of every episode, The Master tells us that he serves on a limited menu but takes request from his patrons to cook anything that they wish for – provided he has the ingredients for it. Every episode is named after a Japanese delicacy that is ordered by a patron on that particular day.

Most importantly, Midnight Diner takes you on a trip to explore human emotions. Every patron enters with a hunger for a hot meal and warm talks. Right from the story of a veteran porn star, a taxi driver with a fascinating career to a gambler, each emotion, and relationship is handled with care. The conversations are engaging and manage to strike a chord with the viewers. At times, the stories seem predictable, but, if that makes one feel good then what’s the harm? The pace of each episode is consistent enough to allow the viewers to savor every bit of it. Minimum locations, good characterization, and well-built stories are the essence of this anthology. Midnight Diner proves that no matter how much sci-fi and superhero content we enjoy, a slice of life representation is never out of fashion.

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Midnight Diner follows a format where every episode begins with The Master telling us his routine, followed by a story and ending with him sharing the recipe of the delicacy. The narrations are subtle and interesting. Like they say – there is beauty in simplicity – Midnight Diner personifies it. If you like stories that are light-hearted and charming and love to go with the flow, then this one is definitely for you.

Written by Anuja W. T.

Rating – 3/5 | Grade – B