Summary
A delightful fantasy series that will draw viewers in with its unique premise, whimsical storytelling, and serious heart.
As one of the most anticipated new premieres of the Winter 2024 season, Netflix‘s latest anime series, Delicious in Dungeon, has been delighting fans with its fun, fantasy mishaps, crazy recipes, and eclectic cast of adventurers. Although this is only the beginning, the worldbuilding and setup have already prepared viewers for what is sure to be an entertaining experience.
Based on the manga of the same name by Ryoko Kui, Delicious in Dungeon tells the story of Laios and his party of adventurers, who find themselves lacking funds and resources after his sister, Falin, is consumed by a dragon during one of their adventures.
With only so much time before Falin is fully digested, Laios hopes to return to the Dungeon immediately. However, he knows it will be impossible to feed themselves without money for food. While Laois has always been curious about the idea of eating the monsters they kill in the Dungeon, no one in his party knows the proper way to prepare such beasts.
Enter Senshi — a dwarf with extensive monster-related cooking knowledge. With his help, Laios’ party is not only able to save money but learn new recipes as well. Although everyone isn’t entirely on board with eating dungeon monsters, Laios is both fully willing and incredibly excited to taste every monster he can get his hands on.
Not only is this anime just as hilarious as it sounds, but it’s also a breath of fresh air amongst the sea of isekai that seems to have been dominating the fantasy genre these past few years. While this isn’t the first cooking-related anime ever, this series does its best to differentiate itself from the others using its reluctant characters and unexpected world politics to add layers to the story.
Although the first few episodes are a bit slower as they introduce viewers to the rules of this new world, the series picks the pace around Episode 3 and Episode 4, introducing an interesting plot, new elements, and new characters. The Dungeon isn’t a fun place where people go just to make money, and just because a Dungeon death isn’t always permanent doesn’t mean there are no consequences ever.
While the plot feels fun and carefree at times, not taking itself too seriously, the characters ground the anime and give it a sense of heart. Laios, Chilchuck, Marcille, and Senshi all have different goals and motivations. Their opinions and upbringings differ significantly, but it’s those differences and the conflicts they create that make the series special. It’s not only about the recipes and cooking but also exposing the characters to different things and forcing them to open their minds.
Along with a fun plot and well-written characters, the series also sports good art and a talented group of voice actors to round it out and make it great. Fans of the softer side of the fantasy genre will not be disappointed, while fans of the more action and adventure side will be satisfied, too.
Yes, Delicious in Dungeon is worth watching. With a 7.71 MyAnimeList rating, it currently ranks in the top ten for the highest-rated series airing this season.
Fans of fantasy will enjoy the new, fresh content that still hits many of the classic tropes they know and love. With a balanced mix of humor, adventure, and action, it’s a fun watch for any anime viewer.
What did you think of Delicious in Dungeon Season 1? Comment below.
