‘Delicious in Dungeon’ Series Review: Michelin-Star Anime Proves Monsters Have Never Looked So Delicious

A scene from ‘Delicious in the Dungeon’ on Netflix

Fantasy anime has always been a giant reservoir of oversaturated ideas, most of which seem uninteresting, tasteless, or just plain rotten. But Delicious in the dungeon (or its Japanese title Dungeon Meshi) At the end of the spread quietly emerges a rare delicacy. Bringing to life by Ryoko Kui’s manga and animated by Studio Trigger under the direction of Yoshihiro Miyajima, the anime serves up a hearty mix of humor, heart, and RPG-inspired dungeon escapades, all seasoned with the most outrageous of propositions: can we make a meal out of monsters?

The adventure begins with Laios, the affable (and decidedly neurodivergent) leader of a group of adventurers, who helplessly watches as his sister Falin is devoured by a red dragon. His pantry as empty as his purse, how does Laios plan to eat the monsters that inhabit the dungeon? Armed with a tattered copy of the “Dungeon Gourmet Guide” and driven by his insatiable curiosity and knowledge of the dungeon’s creatures, Laios sets out to turn the dungeon into a beastly den, where every creepy creature he encounters becomes a potential entrance.

Laios’s group of companions is as insane as the dishes they prepare. There’s Marseille, an elven sorceress whose delicate sensibilities and moral qualms make her the reluctant foodie of the group. Her frequent outbursts and wide-eyed horror at Laios’ gastronomic experiments are a source of constant amusement. Then there’s Chilchuck, a halfling thief whose ability to disarm traps is rivaled only by his vigilance toward Laios’ choices, making him the cautious critic of the group.

But the real star of this culinary extravaganza is Senshi, a dwarf chef whose expertise in cooking dungeon monsters transforms terrifying ingredients into delicious dishes. Senshi’s philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the balance of nature, advocating a nose-to-tail approach where nothing is wasted. His meticulous preparation methods and reverence for each creature he cooks reflect a utilitarian conservationism that serves as a commentary on the anime’s pursuit of sustainability.

(L-R) Chilchuck, Marseille, Laios and Senshi from ‘Delicious in Dungeon’

The combination of Marseille’s intense hatred of monster cuisine and Laios’s vehemence in embracing it (quite literally) provides a rich vein of humor and conflict. His face contorts comically at the sight of the basilisk omelet, while Laios’ mouth waters at the prospect of cooking a dragon steak.

Marseille has to grapple with the moral indigestion of eating sentient beings, his disgust serving as a bitter garnish for the group’s survival strategy. This ongoing tug-of-war between survival and morality prompts viewers to consider their own food choices, making this series a delicious feast that cleverly spices up conversations on the ethics of consumption.

Meanwhile, Chilchuck’s role as the practical, skeptical member of the party grounds the series in a sense of realism. His constant grumbling and careful slicing of the Senshi’s culinary creations provide a perfect complement to Laios’ unbridled excitement and the Senshi’s culinary enthusiasm. His reluctant participation in monster meals, often accompanied by dry remarks and hesitant nibbles, serves as the (failed) voice of reason for their antics.

The show’s animation is a visual feast at its best. As the studio responsible for winning Netflix’s Anime of the Year award Cyberpunk: EdgerunnersStudio Trigger brings Cui’s intricate art to life with vibrant colors, fluid motion and a delightful attention to detail. Each episode is a feast for the eyes, with every dish; whether it’s the kabayaki-style kraken parasite, the scorpion hot pot or even the grilled living armor (yes, you can actually eat living armor) rendered in mouth-watering detail. The dungeon, with its claustrophobic corridors and vast caverns, is portrayed through inventive camera angles and lush backdrops.

Kabayaki-style Kraken Parasite (left), Scorpion Hot Pot (right) and Grilled Living Armor (below) from ‘Delicious in Dungeon’

has already composed extensive orchestral scores Freiren: Beyond the end of the journey Released earlier this year, Evan Call’s moody, upbeat score for the anime perfectly complements the series’ playful tone. Even J-pop legends, Bump of Chicken’s catchy intro, “Sleep Walking Orchestra” is an instant anime classic.

Delicious in the dungeon invites us to go on a unique gastronomic journey. Whether you are a foodie or a fantasy lover, this anime serves up a wholesome mix of unique flavors that will leave you hungry for more.

With the FX Bear Season 3 is on the way, so Carmi Barzatto should watch her back.

All episodes of Delicious in Dungeon are streaming on Netflix