What began as a quiet debut with just 1.6% domestic viewership has turned into one of the most astonishing success stories of 2024. Korean drama Tastefully Yours, which premiered on May 12 via ENA and Genie TV, has soared to the top of global streaming charts, capturing hearts across 84 countries.
Despite opening to modest numbers, significantly lower than its predecessor Recruit 3, the romantic culinary series experienced a meteoric rise after just one episode. By May 15, it had climbed to No. 2 globally in Netflix’s TV category, according to FlixPatrol, and hit No. 1 in 23 countries, including Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and Thailand. Even in the U.S., it secured a strong No. 7 spot.
The drama has now overtaken domestic hits like tvN’s Resident Playbook, JTBC’s Heavenly Ever After, and SBS’s The Haunted Palace on Netflix Korea, despite its lower terrestrial ratings. Viewership has shown signs of growth too, with episode 2 reaching 2.2% in Seoul and 2.0% nationwide.
Set in a cozy Jeonju alley, Tastefully Yours tells the story of a one-table, signless restaurant and the evolving romance between Mo Yeon-joo (played by Go Min-si), a passionate chef, and Han Beom-woo (played by Kang Ha-neul), a food conglomerate heir who initially seeks to acquire her restaurant. Their dynamic journey from opposition to affection serves as a metaphor for growth, healing, and emotional nourishment.
Fans have praised the show’s witty writing, authentic chemistry, and heartwarming tone:
- “Kang Ha-neul is a man of a thousand faces.”
- “Go Min-si is gorgeous and everyone’s acting is great.”
- “Finally, a fun and refreshing drama again.”
- “Global hit confirmed.”
Backed by D.P. and Coin Locker Girl director Han Joon-hee as creator, with Park Dan-hee directing and Jung Soo-yoon writing, the drama balances humor and emotion, blending Korean-Chinese culinary culture into its storyline. Each food scene serves as a visual and emotional highlight, described by writer Jung as a “visual feast” sure to trigger late-night cravings.
Cast members have embraced the show’s unique flavor. Kang Ha-neul described it as “a drama full of various flavors—of food, character, love, and growth,” while Go Min-si called it “a comforting story where imperfect people fill each other’s gaps.”
With Tastefully Yours airing Mondays and Tuesdays at 10 PM KST on ENA and available for free streaming on KT Genie TV and Genie TV Mobile, the drama is proving that strong storytelling and heartwarming themes can transcend borders—even if it starts with just 1%.
