Top Chefs Share Their Favorite Movies About Food
Food and film have always had a special relationship, with movies about food often serving as a source of inspiration for chefs around the world. From heartwarming tales of family recipes to high-stakes culinary competitions, these films have the power to transport viewers into the world of food and ignite a passion for cooking. We spoke to some of the top chefs in the industry to find out which movies about food have had the biggest impact on them.
Nancy Silverton, the renowned chef and co-owner of the acclaimed restaurant Osteria Mozza, cites the classic film “Babette’s Feast” as one of her all-time favorites. The Danish film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1987, tells the story of a French refugee who prepares an extravagant feast for a small religious community in Denmark. Silverton says that the film’s emphasis on the transformative power of food and the joy it can bring to others resonates deeply with her own approach to cooking.
“I love how ‘Babette’s Feast’ captures the essence of what food is all about – bringing people together and creating unforgettable moments,” Silverton says. “It reminds me that cooking is not just about the ingredients or the technique, but about the love and care that goes into every dish.”
Another chef who draws inspiration from movies about food is Daniela Soto-Innes, the youngest recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award for Rising Star Chef. Soto-Innes credits the animated film “Ratatouille” as a major influence on her culinary career. The film follows the story of a rat named Remy who dreams of becoming a chef and eventually finds success in a top Parisian restaurant.
“Watching ‘Ratatouille’ always reminds me of the magic and creativity that can be found in the kitchen,” Soto-Innes says. “It’s a beautiful reminder that anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can achieve their dreams through hard work and determination.”
For chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson, the documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” holds a special place in his heart. The film follows Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master who runs a Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo, as he shares his lifelong dedication to perfecting the art of sushi. Samuelsson says that the film’s exploration of craftsmanship and commitment to excellence has had a profound impact on his own approach to cooking.
“Watching ‘Jiro Dreams of Sushi’ is a humbling experience that reminds me of the importance of striving for perfection in everything I do,” Samuelsson says. “It’s a powerful reminder that true mastery takes time, patience, and unwavering dedication.”
As chefs continue to push the boundaries of culinary creativity and innovation, movies about food serve as a source of inspiration and motivation. Whether it’s a heartwarming tale of family recipes or a high-stakes culinary competition, these films have the power to reignite a love of cooking and remind chefs of the magic that can be found in the kitchen.
In conclusion, movies about food have the ability to inspire and captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into the world of culinary artistry and the passion that drives chefs to create unforgettable dishes. As the culinary world continues to evolve and expand, it’s clear that the connection between food and film will remain a powerful source of inspiration for chefs around the world. What movie about food has inspired you to get into the kitchen and start cooking?