Devoted Cookbook

In the Edo period, amidst the vibrant and bustling cities of Osaka and Edo, a young orphan girl named Mio embarks on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, passion, and entrepreneurship, all centered around her unwavering devotion to food. The film takes the audience through a journey of Mio's rise from a humble beginning, to becoming one of the most celebrated chefs in Edo. Born without any memories of her parents, Mio lives a simple life in Osaka, working as an apprentice at a local restaurant, run by the kind-hearted owner, Osen. Despite her troubled past, Mio's innate curiosity and natural talent for cooking, quickly make her an indispensable member of the kitchen team. Under Osen's guidance, Mio masters various traditional Japanese dishes, from simple tempura to complex kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese cuisine that emphasizes local ingredients and aesthetics. However, the passing of time eventually brings about a change in Mio's life. When she turns 18, Mio decides to depart from her comfort zone in Osaka, determined to create a better life for herself in the bustling city of Edo. Leaving behind the familiarity of her life's memories, Mio sets out on a treacherous yet exhilarating journey to the capital city. As she arrives in Edo, Mio is immediately struck by the city's grandeur, noise, and energy. Despite feeling a sense of unease amidst the unfamiliar surroundings, Mio remains resolute, driven by her passion for cooking and a desire to establish her own restaurant. The Edo period, a time of great social change, has a rich and diverse cultural landscape, with various ethnic groups, traders, and travelers bringing in new influences. Through her perseverance, Mio secures a modest location in a relatively affluent district of Edo and sets to work rebuilding her dream. She works diligently, day and night, experimenting with novel ingredients, honing her cooking techniques, and creating an innovative menu that will make her restaurant stand out. In doing so, Mio also meets other individuals who will play a crucial role in her journey, including Shinsuke, a quiet yet skilled young chef, who offers his expertise and support when needed. Through Mio's culinary journey, we see the complexities of social hierarchies, economic disparities, and cultural norms faced by Mio as an outsider in Edo, and how she uses her skills, creativity, and resilience to navigate these challenges. Mio's restaurant gradually gains popularity among the city's elite and emerging merchant class, thanks in large part to her unique fusion of traditional and innovative dishes. However, her path to success is not without setbacks and obstacles, as she faces stiff competition from local chefs and must also contend with the strict social norms and expectations placed upon women. Throughout her journey, Mio's passion for cooking not only serves as a source of strength and inspiration but also allows her to connect with the people who dine at her restaurant. As she shares her culinary creations, Mio fosters meaningful relationships with customers, some of whom become loyal patrons and close friends. Through the unfolding of Mio's story, the film masterfully captures the intricate tapestry of 18th century Japanese society, as well as the cultural exchange and social changes of that era. Mio's unwavering dedication to her craft ultimately transforms her life and the people around her, allowing her to achieve her dreams of becoming a renowned chef in Edo. As the story reaches its conclusion, we see Mio's restaurant thriving, with her cooking receiving widespread acclaim. Mio's journey, marked by countless challenges, hard-earned triumphs, and moments of profound self-discovery, serves as a testament to the human spirit, highlighting the power of passion, perseverance, and the joy of sharing the simple pleasures of food and camaraderie with others.