Winter sometimes means snowshoeing, skiing, and ice-skating – but there are also times you just want to put a log on the fire, fix yourself your beverage of choice, and curl up in front of the TV. There’s something about food focused movies and shows that evoke a sense of warmth, passion, adventure… and sometimes horror. Here are our picks to help you enjoy a winter hibernation day.
Ratatouille (2007)
This fuzzy, funny and unexpectedly touching Pixar film about a rat named Remy living in the walls of a celebrated French restaurant dreaming of becoming a chef proves that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. We love it, everyone loves it — it’s the perfect feel good food flick.. One of Pixar’s more underrated films, Ratatouille’s compelling story and fun characters make it a great watch for foodies of all ages.
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Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (2005 – 2012)
This series follows the late Anthony Bourdain as he travels the world seeking out local culture, cuisine, and hidden gems. Bourndain’s bold personality and adventurous spirit are on full display as he challenges viewers to feed their wanderlust and immerse themselves in the culture of the places they visit.
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Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
This critically acclaimed (sitting at 99% on Rotten Tomatoes) documentary follows mysterious 85-year-old sushi master Jiro Ono and his Michelin three-star restaurant located in a Tokyo subway station. A fascinating look into the passion and respect Jiro puts in to every aspect of every dish.
Delicatessen (1991)
We wouldn’t call it delicious, but this cult classic is definitely about food — or should we say, the lack of it. The story of a landlord/butcher in a crumbling tenement building going a little nuts-oh and pulling a Sweeney Todd. It’s (sort-of) a modern day Hansel-Gretel meets Romeo & Juliet meets… Hannibal. Just watch it. It’s a cannibalistic classic!
Coffee and Cigarettes (2004)
Okay, this this ‘film’ is technically 11 short films strung together with loose themes and copious amounts of coffee and cigarettes. Each one is about two people who disagree on something… whether that be Tesla coils or music or what not. Bonus: there’s cameos by Iggy Pop, Tom Waits, Steve Buscemi and Bill Murray.
Eat Drink Man Woman (1994)
Detailing the lives of three daughters, who come together each Sunday for an epic feast prepared by their super traditionalist chef father, EDMW is about the interplay between modern culture and values of the past — but most of all, it’s about the food. So much beautiful, glorious, food. There’s a later remake called Tortilla Soup that’s decent, but it’s edible splendor pales in comparison to the Ang Lee classic.