Watch Spinning Plates

Spinning Plates is a 2012 documentary that explores the passion, dedication, and challenges of three different restaurants across the United States. The film was directed by Joseph Levy and features three distinct stories that showcase the drive and perseverance of people that are truly committed to their craft. The movie provides a glimpse into the inner workings of restaurants that have different approaches to dining experiences.

The first restaurant featured in the film is Alinea, located in Chicago. Alinea is a Michelin-starred restaurant run by chef Grant Achatz, who is known for his innovative culinary techniques. The documentary shows the creative process behind some of Achatz's dishes, including a dessert that uses helium to create an edible balloon. However, the documentary doesn't only focus on the culinary aspects of the restaurant, but also on Achatz's personal journey. The chef was diagnosed with tongue cancer in 2007, and the film shows the impact that the disease had on his life and his work. Achatz's story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of perseverance and determination.

The second restaurant featured in the documentary is Breitbach's Country Dining, located in Balltown, Iowa. Breitbach's is a family-owned restaurant that has been operating for over 150 years, making it one of the oldest in the United States. The film follows the Breitbach family as they rebuild their restaurant after it was destroyed by a fire in 2007. The family's dedication to the restaurant is evident in the way they work together to rebuild and reopen the establishment. The documentary shows the importance of community support and how a restaurant can become an integral part of a town's identity.

The third and final restaurant featured in Spinning Plates is La Cocina de Gabby, located in Tucson, Arizona. The restaurant is run by a Mexican immigrant named Gabby, who has become an important figure in her community. The documentary shows Gabby's philosophy of creating a welcoming environment where customers feel like family. The film also touches on the challenges that immigrants face in the United States, with Gabby's struggle to obtain a work visa being a recurring theme.

Throughout the documentary, the stories of these three restaurants are interwoven, showcasing their similarities and differences. The film also provides an insight into the restaurant industry and the challenges that come with running a restaurant. From the financial struggles to the pressure of providing a memorable experience for customers, the documentary shows the complexity of the restaurant industry.

What sets Spinning Plates apart from other documentaries about the restaurant industry is its focus on the people behind the restaurant. The film is not only about the food, but also about the personal and emotional connection that the restaurant owners have with their establishments. The documentary is a celebration of the human spirit and the passion that drives individuals to pursue their dreams, even when faced with adversity.

Overall, Spinning Plates is a well-crafted documentary that provides an intimate look at the restaurant industry. Featuring engaging stories about three unique restaurants, the film is a celebration of the passion, dedication, and perseverance of the people behind these establishments. Whether you're a foodie, a fan of documentary films, or just looking for an inspiring story, Spinning Plates is a must-see.

Spinning Plates is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 65.