A fair warning: don’t watch Chef on a full stomach. Go in hungry, and be prepared to crave food for the next few hours. The film is a visual feast, overflowing with mouthwatering shots of iconic, culture-rich dishes from cities renowned for their culinary delights. From Cuban sandwiches in Miami to beignets in New Orleans and authentic brisket in Austin, Chef will have you salivating long after the credits roll.
The movie follows Chef Carl Casper (Jon Favreau), a talented but frustrated chef who quits his job at a prestigious LA restaurant after a public feud with a harsh food critic, Ramsey Michel (Oliver Platt). Left without a kitchen, Carl teams up with his ex-wife (Sofia Vergara), best friend Martin (John Leguizamo), and his son Percy (Emjay Anthony) to start a food truck business. Their journey takes them across the country, hitting the vibrant food scenes of Little Havana, New Orleans, and Austin, each city serving as a backdrop for deliciously indulgent moments.
Each stop on the food truck’s journey showcases the unique flavors and food culture of the cities they visit. Miami’s Cuban influences, New Orleans’ famous beignets, and Austin’s legendary barbecue (featuring a cameo from pitmaster Aaron Franklin) are all lovingly captured on screen, leaving the audience longing for a taste of the dishes on display. Beyond the food, Chef also beautifully explores the developing father-son bond between Carl and Percy, with Carl teaching his son the ropes of cooking on the truck.
Jon Favreau, who both directs and stars in the film, delivers a lighthearted yet heartfelt comedy. His experience in Hollywood has allowed him to assemble an impressive ensemble cast, including Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, and Dustin Hoffman, all of whom bring their charm to the story. While the movie might occasionally lean into a few implausible moments—such as snagging a few briskets from the notoriously sold-out Franklin Barbecue—Chef remains an entertaining, feel-good ride.
If you’re in the mood for something different than the usual summer blockbusters, or if you’re looking for a great date night movie, Chef offers a perfect combination of humor, heart, and delicious food. It’s a film that will have you laughing, crying, and, most importantly, hungry.