Spoilers want some dorayaki too.

There’s no doubt that anime can portray picture perfect depictions of food. They are so well known for doing so, that it has its own subgenre. Foodie anime shows are not new, but this might be the first time I see one that also happens to be an isekai. Now, cooking in another world is normal (ok, as normal as living in another world can be). However, the way that our protagonist manages is what makes all the difference. Someone set the table, lunch is ready.

(Credit: MAPPA)

Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill (2023) is produced by MAPPA adapted from the Japanese light novel series written by Ren Eguchi. A regular salaryman named Tsuyoshi Mukouda finds himself transported to another world along with another three potential champions, all possessing special powers. However, “Mukohda” as he’s known from then on, is found to only have the skill of “online supermarket shopping”, something unintelligible to the fantasy world he now lives in.

After been paid off to keep quiet and silently thrown off the castle, Mukohda learns that his secret skill allows him to access an online shopping site with modern Japanese goods, magically delivered to him. Cleverly realizing this is an opportunity, he manages not only to survive but thrive in this world as long as no ruler or member of the nobility finds out. For that reason, he embarks on a road trip to leave the kingdom in a hurry. Our protagonist will end up making friends and allies along the way. Now, as much as I’d like to get into how these add/change the dynamic, I’d rather let you discover that on your own.

Does it work? Yes, if you’re game for a show that is far more about a slice-of-life, day to day routine and are entertained by cooking. The highlight of each day is often what Mukohda is cooking using a mix of ingredients from both worlds. On the other hand, although magic and melee combat do happen occasionally, you will only see them when they add something to the plot. Otherwise they happen off screen, so be warned action is not the focus here.

Highly recommended for viewers looking for a chill experience and specially for fans of the foodie subgenre. There is a thin overarching plot developing as Mukohda’s presence and fame precedes him, signaling that his quiet life of anonymity might be coming to an end. Just don’t be in a rush for him to get into battle, because he certainly isn’t eager to join. Worth a watch with your favourite meal.

That will do for now.