TV

5 Reasons to Watch Midnight Diner While It's Still on Netflix

5 Reasons to Watch Midnight Diner While It's Still on Netflix
Image credit: MBS

If you want to experience the ambience of a Tokyo night, look no further than this captivating show.

Netflix is a goldmine of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Unfortunately, many of these treasures go unnoticed. One such gem is the Japanese anthology series Midnight Diner, adapted from the manga of the same name.

If the slice-of-life genre is your cup of tea, this series about a quaint Tokyo diner will surely capture your imagination. Regrettably, the show is set to leave the platform in the near future. So, here are five compelling reasons to watch it while it's still available on Netflix.

5. It’s one of the most comforting shows

Picture this: midnight on the bustling streets of Shinjuku, Tokyo. After a hectic day, you all yearn for a quiet place to sit, unwind, and enjoy a satisfying meal.

Midnight Diner offers a serene, meditative pace that immerses you in the most familiar and grounded atmosphere, providing a brief respite to contemplate life.

4. The visuals are beyond reproach

Midnight Diner boasts a stunning visual aesthetic. From the streets housing the protagonist's diner to the mouthwatering food scenes, every aspect of the show is crafted with immense love and dedication by its creators.

3. It doubles as a cooking show!

A shared love for food and drink unites the diverse cast of characters. The protagonist, known as Master, is eager to prepare any dish for his customers upon request or based on their mood, despite his limited menu. As long as the request isn't overly extravagant and he has the necessary ingredients, Master is happy to oblige.

2. It's therapeutic

Although the main character initially appears aloof, he is, in fact, deeply empathetic. Always lending an ear to his customers, Master is ready to provide the comfort they need, whether it's through serving the perfect dish or offering sage advice.

1. It's a great representation of everyday Japanese life

From salary people and yakuza to police officers and eccentric fashionistas, Midnight Diner showcases the unique personalities of Tokyo's residents, particularly those in Shinjuku. This diverse array of characters provides a genuine glimpse into the daily lives of the city's inhabitants.

Sadly, the show is set to leave Netflix on 31 May. This departure will likely affect the first three seasons, produced by MBS, while the subsequent two seasons, produced by Netflix and titled Tokyo Stories, are expected to remain on the platform. Regardless, as Netflix is fixing to pull the early seasons, now is the perfect opportunity to binge-watch the series from beginning to end!