The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House

Drama | Based on a manga by Aiko Koyama | See it on Netflix (PG)

The nine-episode series follows the story of two best friends, Kiyo and Sumire, who move to Kyoto Japan, to fulfill their dreams to become maikos (cultural performers). Soon they realise they are meant to pursue different paths as Kiyo discovers her passion for cooking, becoming a makanai (in-house cook). Kindness and tenderness are at the core of every episode. It also explores different character stories that inspire both the young girls as they grow into their own. A sense of camaraderie is also formed within the house as they support one another through their different gifts, sharing banter, laughter and good food.

(Reviewed by Nicole Gesmundo)