Ep 9. Ham Cutlet
- October 21, 2016
As the name suggests, the episode Ham Cutlet from season 4 of Midnight Diner revolves around a dish called ham cutlet. The show starts with the usual routine of Chef, a lone man cooking food for his customers at his Midnight Diner. The show's concept of being the home for people during the dark hours is evident when the customers pour in after the usual dinner hours to satiate their midnight hunger pangs or to unwind after a long day of work.
The episode begins with an introduction between Chef and his two regular customers–Arashi and Meiko. Arashi is a freelance writer, and Meiko, a bar owner. The episode comes on to the main track when Chef's customers, Arashi and Meiko, start praising his ham cutlet.
Chef reveals that the ham cutlet recipe was his grandmother's. He tells his customers how his grandmother kept on experimenting with the ham cutlet recipe to reach perfection. This narration sets the foundation for the episode, as it takes the viewers on a journey to making the perfect ham cutlet.
Through the episode, Chef welcomes various customers who come to taste his ham cutlet. Their comments on the dish give an insight into the cooking world. The show gently touches upon the emotion that is behind every dish and how it connects people.
The supporting storyline of the episode revolves around Meiko, who has just experienced a breakup. Chef acts as a counselor and friend to her, providing a non-judgmental ear. The show silently highlights the importance of creating a safe and familiar place for customers to talk and seek emotional support.
As the night grows older, Chef prepares variations of the ham cutlet, adding his twist to the original recipe. He also shares how his customers' comments and suggestions have helped him gradually improve the already delicious recipe.
The show concludes on a beautiful note with Chef serving ham cutlet to all his customers. It highlights how midnight diners serve as a meeting place for people to connect and feel unified, even in their loneliness.
Overall, the episode 'Ham Cutlet' from season 4 is a perfect representation of the essence of Midnight Diner – a place for people to connect, share their stories, and bond over delicious food. The show's portrayal of building and preserving relationships is heart-touching and makes the viewer want to be a part of such a community. The emphasis on making the perfectly seasoned ham cutlet will make you hungry and inspire the desire to try out the dish for yourself.
