A Few of My Favorite Culinary Arts Shows

by Kee Kru

 

  1. Good Eats 

Alton Brown is truly the ultimate culinary arts teacher. Each episode has an entertaining factor and he explains the science behind how to do that dish instead of just stating what is happening like so many other chefs. 

   Where to Watch: Hulu, Max, YouTube, Amazon Prime 

  1. Restaurants on the Edge 

A trio of experts blend culinary, design, and cultural insight to revive restaurants around the globe. The set up is slightly different than a normal restaurant makeover show and I absolutely loved the human cultural aspect they showcased. Restaurants and food are a worldwide business and this show demonstrates that in the most beautiful way. 

Where to Watch: Netflix

  1.  The Bear 

This popular show depicts a chef who takes over his brother’s sandwich shop, wrestling with staff, operations, and self-improvement under high stress. As a Chicago native, I love the way they portray the city and as a culinary teacher, I love the way they portray the many different types of restaurants thet are out there. 

  Where to Watch: FX on Hulu

  1. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 

Host Anthony Bourdain visits various countries and cities, as well as places within the U.S., where he explores local culture and cuisine. His view on the world is open minded and inquisitive and makes you want to travel. 

Where to Watch: Hulu, YouTube, Discovery+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime 

  1. Throwdown with Bobby Flay 

Bobby Flay would challenge individuals renowned for a specific dish or style of cooking to a cook-off. He shows up at their restaurants and learns about the dish and then the people at the event vote for their favorite which isn’t always Bobby. 

Where to Watch: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon Prime  

  1. Worst Cooks in America 

This competition show follows recruits with extremely poor cooking skills, and participates in a multi-week culinary boot camp. The "recruits" are trained in essential cooking techniques like knife skills, baking, temperature control, seasoning, and preparation.

Where to Watch: Hulu, YouTube, Max, Amazon Prime 

  1. Man Vs Child: Chef Showdown 

Top level executive chefs compete in three rounds against a team of kid chefs. Funny, educational, entertaining and you can watch full episodes for free on YouTube. 

Where to Watch: YouTube and Amazon Prime 

  1. Recipe Rehab    

This program focused on transforming unhealthy, family-favorite recipes into healthier, lower-calorie versions without sacrificing flavor. Two chefs take on the challenge and then the family cooks both versions and picks their favorite. 

Where to Watch: YouTube

  1. Restaurant: Impossible 

Chef Robert Irvine has 48 hours and a limited budget to transform failing eateries. It is such a great tool to show the formula of a well ran restaurant.  It focuses on the foodservice world which is very business driven and also has a segment that teaches culinary techniques. There’s always a feel good moment tossed in too so I highly recommend watching! 

  Where to Watch: Hulu, Max, YouTube, Amazon Prime  

  1. Supermarket Superstar   

Supermarket Superstar is NOT the classic we think of Supermarket Sweep. It is a competition show that follows three people as they try and get their food product into grocery stores. I’ve never seen another show that goes into depth about food cost, product development and marketing like this one. 

Where to Watch: AppleTV, Amazon Prime 

  1. Epicurious: 50 People Try 

Epicurious brings in 50 random people to try various culinary tasks like cutting an onion. It’s so fun to see how people approach the same tasks and some are better than others. These short episodes show what not to do, but also end with a professional explaining the correct way to do that task. I’ve watched them all! 

Where to Watch: YouTube

  1. Giving You The Business 

I’m not sure how I found this gem, but I will show everyone of my culinary students at least one of the episodes each year.  A company owner picks four managers to take over another location for the day. There are actors that set up scenarios for each and you watch the manager's reactions. The best manager earns their own franchise. Customer service is hard to teach and this show does a great job at showcasing what and what not to do. 

Where to Watch: YouTube 

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