Films centered on cooking and culinary professionals seem to be consistently popular throughout cinema’s history, appealing not just to those passionate about food, but also to general audiences, critics, and moviegoers who might find themselves wanting to visit a nice restaurant afterward. It's common for at least one film each year to spark conversations about cuisine that last for days, similar to Jon Favreau’s 'Chef' from the previous year, and this appears to be 2015’s equivalent. These kinds of movies often share familiar elements, with variations arising from subplots involving family, friendships, or showcasing foods from various regions. This particular film didn't offer much in terms of originality regarding its plot. It follows a well-worn path: a chef experiences setbacks and strives to reclaim their standing. What sets it apart is the cast; every performer was excellent. Even those with smaller roles, particularly Bradley Cooper as the lead, significantly contribute to the experience. There's a surprise element, but it doesn’t elicit a strong reaction. It proved to be somewhat amusing, incorporating dark humor. The pacing felt slow and lifeless at times, almost manufactured, yet surprisingly, it functioned effectively due to the film’s unique atmosphere. It seemed like characters were frequently inserted unnecessarily, including guest appearances, which would have otherwise made the story seem quite basic. While not the greatest food-themed movie I've encountered, it is certainly watchable and pleasant. 7/10

Source on TMDB