This post contains spoilers. Turn back now if you haven’t finished the show. And if you haven’t started, watch it!
If you’re looking for a new binge-worthy show that truly captures the heart of the culinary world, Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars is a must-watch. Having premiered on September 17, 2024, this South Korean cooking contest brings together 100 chefs from all sorts of backgrounds—from culinary school grads to self-taught prodigies—all competing for the ultimate prize of ₩300,000,000 (roughly $300,000 CAD at the time of this article).
As someone who has spent years in the service industry, it’s amazing to watch that same commitment and grit come alive in these chefs, whether they’re meticulously trained or simply cooking from the heart. The show is a great reminder that in the food world, skill and dedication often mean more than pedigree.
The contest is dynamic and unpredictable, featuring individual eliminations, head-to-head matchups, team-based cooking, and even restaurant creation challenges. One particularly memorable challenge had contestants crafting a five-star experience using only basic ingredients like potatoes, onions, and a handful of spices. These challenges push the chefs’ creativity and resilience, demonstrating their ability to adapt under pressure and transform humble components into something extraordinary.
The judging process adds another layer of excitement. Contestants Paik Jong-won focuses on flavor, while Anh Sung-jae emphasizes presentation and finesse, ensuring that each dish receives well-rounded feedback. This dynamic, combined with the intensity of the challenges, makes the show both educational and emotionally engaging.
Culinary Class Wars challenges the idea of culinary status by demonstrating that street food chefs can rival Michelin-starred professionals, proving that talent knows no boundaries. The show highlights the power of food to foster genuine connection, transcending culture, status, and background.
Beyond cooking skills, the contest tests communication, teamwork, storytelling, and determination. The best chefs aren’t just technically skilled; they know how to make every dish an experience worth remembering, and that’s what makes the food and beverage industry so special.
The show makes us reflect on what makes a dining experience extraordinary. Is it the precision, the love, or the ability to create something meaningful? Perhaps it’s about sharing a meal in a lively setting, where cultures blend, stories are exchanged, and memories are created. Greatness in food comes from creativity, connection, and the joy it brings.
So, why does Culinary Class Wars resonate so much with us? Because it embodies some of our most important values—a mix of tradition and innovation, raising quality without creating barriers. It’s about celebrating those who push boundaries, who innovate, and who make the joy of food and drink accessible to everyone. Just as the show celebrates both formally trained chefs and self-taught talents, we believe that greatness is about more than just tradition—it’s about authenticity, place, and the unexpected pleasures that come from sharing something truly special.
