Dungeon Meshi ダンジョン飯

2024 winter | Episodes: 24 | Score: 8.6 (211810)

Updated every Thursdays at 22:30 | Status: Finished Airing

Type: TV

Producers:Ultra Super Pictures | Good Smile Company | Tencent Japan | Kadokawa

Streaming: Netflix

Synopsis

Adventuring knight Laios Touden leads a small party through a seemingly endless dungeon, a subterranean maze full of dangerous monsters and precarious traps. Through the use of advanced magic, an explorer can sometimes be resurrected, allowing them to learn from past mistakes and give traversing the dungeon another go. However, when a powerful dragon eats Falin, Laios' spellcasting sister, she sends her brother and his companions back to the beginning to save them from permanent ends. Though strapped for cash and equipment, Laios resolves to fight his way through the dungeon and rescue Falin before she can be digested by the dragon. Despite some of Laios' allies abandoning him, two remain by his side: elven mage Marcille Donato and halfling locksmith Chilchuck Tims. Due to their lack of funds, the party faces the daunting prospect of starving before being able to complete their quest. However, they find salvation in Senshi, a dwarven warrior with a penchant for cooking and safely eating defeated monsters. With Senshi's culinary expertise, Laios and his companions struggle through the dungeon while learning about gourmet dining—and each other—along the way. [Written by MAL Rewrite]

Voice Actors

Senbongi, Sayaka

Naka, Hiroshi

Ookuma, Kenta

Tomari, Asuna

Kumagai, Kentarou

Yorita, Natsu

News

Reviews

infedalities
01/09/2025, 09:28 AM
I took 3 days finishing this anime, which is super rare. It usually took me about a month, now that I am in anime series slump. This anime felt warm. NOW let's get to know me first, so that if you think we are similar, this review could be a great guide to you. But you can just skip to the paragraph below! 1) I am not into medieval fantasy anime. - I gave several popular one a chance. I want to enjoy them too - end up hating SAO - re:zero kept me entertained for a season but i am not continuing season 2 - the only one i truly enjoyedwas That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. but i do not have the motivation for season 2 2) I am picky about humour too. - humour i enjoy: saiki k, opm, dandadan - humour i do not enjoy: the devil is a part-timer, mashle, sakamaoto desu ga Regarding dungeon meshi, I started this solely for the cooking bits. I love seeing detailed food animation in anime. the only gourmet anime i've ever watched was shokugeki no soma. the food was good but characters and plot were horrible. Now I think the main reason Dungeon Meshi appealed so much to me was because I started it thinking it was about a dwarf chef opening a dungeon-themed restaurant set in medieval fantasy setting. I've never heard about the anime beside its title so I was literally diving in blind. The character not having a sense of urgency? I don't care! I watched it for the food not the plot. But hey gradually the plot appeals to me. and so were the characters. I especially love the main character Laios and Falin. And the anime got a lot of interesting scenes like the painting episode. It was fun and enjoyable to me. Most importantly, I love the humour. It landed, most of the time. The way it was delivered felt unique too. And if it missed, I did not cringe. Overall, I think you should know what you are diving into. If you are looking for an entertaining, not so heavy watch, by all means please give dungeon meshi a chance! But if you are looking for critically acclaimed or mind blowing plot (AOT/Death Note level), this anime isn't for you. And hey this is a heavy bias take but if you dismiss the recommended:not recommended ratio of this listing, the loss is yours :p
BlkAngle
11/09/2024, 03:42 PM
I must say that these days, there is no anime that is both relaxing and exciting and inspiring at the same time. And this anime was exactly that for me. It was clear from the very first episodes that this anime is a newly discovered pearl that is very different from other anime. Let's start with the criteria: Story: This anime was a roller coaster of emotions. In this anime, you will definitely enjoy the coloring and cooking of strange foods whose ingredients are dungeon monsters. You will enjoy a different story of survival and rescue and adventure. You will enjoy and be excited bythe different battles and the variety of fighting methods, as well as the various monsters and enemies. You will be amazed by the secrets that are revealed along with the anime's adventure group in the different stages of the dungeon. I think this anime was suitable for every taste and I enjoyed the story a lot. I highly recommend it, especially if you are interested in watching fiction with creative world building. Animation: Excellent! No problem! Smooth's coloring and movements were extremely expressive! Especially the way the food was cooked and the colors used to design them were so good that it seemed like they were talking to you! Character: The design and variety of the characters was unique! The different and unique personality of each character was well shown. And the art style and character design were very pleasant in my opinion and perfectly played the right vibe for the anime story. Sound: I really enjoyed both the opening and ending and they made me feel good. The OST songs were also appropriate and it was clear that the voice actors had done their job well. Overall, I must say that this was an unforgettable and unique experience and I really fell in love with this anime. I am sure that anyone will get lost in this anime after a few episodes and will not stop watching it. I am so excited to see the next season!
bergars
08/27/2024, 02:38 PM
Full-world fantasy really is back. I'm the kind of person who doesn't enjoy this kind of fantastical world in general. It's always how people explain the world itself that I excessively hate. The world needs context, the world needs to tell us everything; but nowadays, even with all the terrible Isekai that's been released, there's a glimmer of hope for fantasy itself. It's about constructing an interesting world, it's about making everybody in the story someone intriguing, and to give them a tangible, personal objective right from the beginning. Instead of trying to create an excessively deep story, this is one of those which createsan exciting tale, with some of THE MOST solid foundations I've ever experienced. Every character is different, every story matters to why they're where they must be. Their actions align with problems they don't understand, and having their trip go progressively worse, and worse as it goes along makes for such a good show. Yes, there's a general mystery, but instead of the mystery being the forefront, it's the personal stakes which connect me to everybody involved. As they ruin their lives outside the walls of the dungeon, it really feels inevitable for them to finish what they started. Yes, the food aspect works so well, it made it all feel like a slice of life, small objective thing, only to flip it on its head. It turned into an epic, weird, and intense story that's not afraid to explore the darker themes. I love the switch, and it made it all incredibly worth it. Something about the main characters not being super powerful, but more so, curious to a fault, makes it feel like a brewing tragedy. I don't know where it can go, and I'm as scared as I'm excited for it. Great animation, as expected by Trigger. Incredible voice acting, funny as hell, a little disturbing, unexpectedly interesting, and intense. PEAK character design (legitimately some of the best I've seen in a while). Please, watch it. This is just a huge recommendation. 9/10. I love me some acoustic representation.
rossjg
08/19/2024, 10:18 AM
Everyone has different tastes in anime and some anime that gel with others will not gel with you. Dungeon Meshi is one of the last shows I have watched from last season as I have never watched a gourmet anime before as I know they will not be for me. However, dungeons, dark fantasy, blood, gore and seriousness is for me, so I thought I would give it a shot with the hopes it will turn into this later in the series. Does Dungeon Meshi change its tone mid way through? Sort of yes! Does it do it well? Not for me. I think it wasthe breaks in serious tone each episode back to cooking that ruined the immersion. Characters, Music or World Building can make or break a show. If you hit all three you get a 10/10. Dungeon Meshi hit none of those for me. The characters were incredibly bland. Laios, Senshi and Chilchuck just didn't have what is required. They don't have the depth of Rudeous (Mushoku Tensei), the complexity of Guts (Berserk), the Epicness of Shadow (Eminence of Shadow), the psychotic Esdeath (Akame Ga Kill) etc. Don't get me wrong there's nothing wrong with Dungeon Meshi's characters. They are just missing the sparks of the others I listed above. However, I did enjoy Marcille though. Her comedic relief was on point as I rarely laugh during anime and she hit the mark. The music was no good either. Lets be honest there was no bangers played that make you leap out of your seat in excitement that are in anime like Death Note, Code Geass, Berserk, Parasyte etc. I could play you a song from those anime and most anime fans would identify it immediately. If I played you a song from Dungeon Meshi outside of the OST I'm sure people would not recognise it. If you are reading this review and haven't watched Dungeon Meshi yet I will advise you to definitely give it a shot. Its 8.6 rating says you should. To those reading this review that have watched the show and loved it, I take you back to my opening sentence that everyone has different tastes and as much as I wanted to love this anime, very sadly it just didn't resonate with me. However, I will give season 2 a shot when it comes out.
phantom346
08/10/2024, 03:48 PM
The Most Rich and Innovative Show I Have Ever Watched I don’t say this lightly. I have a big head, and I’m not quick to compliment authors on their writing as genius, but even I have to admit that Kui Ryouko is an absolute genius—undeniably smarter than me. Dungeon Meshi stands as a testament to her extraordinary intellect, a culmination of vast knowledge in fantasy and mythological lore, combined with an absurdly vivid imagination. The world Kui-san has crafted is nothing short of a masterpiece, rich in detail and bursting with creativity. The worldbuilding is so brilliant that I’m at a loss for words that canfully express my admiration. The foundation of Dungeon Meshi lies in its meticulously crafted world. Kui Ryouko has taken the standard fantasy dungeon-crawling premise and elevated it to a level of depth and originality that is rarely seen. The dungeon in Dungeon Meshi is not just a backdrop for the adventure but a living, breathing ecosystem filled with its own history, cultures, and rules. Each level of the dungeon is distinct, dangerous and wondrous. From ancient ruins to lush forests, the variety is staggering. This diversity in settings ensures that the series never feels monotonous; every episode brings a new challenge, a new discovery, and a new opportunity to explore the world Kui-san has so meticulously designed. What sets Dungeon Meshi apart is how this worldbuilding is seamlessly integrated with the narrative. The creatures that inhabit the dungeon are not just obstacles but integral parts of the ecosystem. Every monster has a role to play, and their presence is justified within the logic of the world. This level of detail reflects Kui Ryouko’s deep understanding of fantasy and mythological lore. She doesn’t just create creatures; she breathes life into them, making them feel like they belong in the world rather than just being there to provide action sequences. Story: 10/10 One of the most innovative aspects of Dungeon Meshi is its focus on food. In a genre where survival often takes precedence over all else, Kui Ryouko introduces the concept of using the monsters in the dungeon as ingredients for meals. This culinary twist is not just a gimmick; it’s a central theme that ties the entire series together. The idea of cooking and eating monsters adds a layer of creativity that causes the characters to constantly experiment with new recipes, turning what could be a mundane survival story into a gourmet adventure. The food in Dungeon Meshi is more than just sustenance; it’s a way for the characters to connect with the world around them. The act of preparing and eating meals becomes a ritual, a moment of respite in their dangerous journey. These scenes are presented with a level of detail and care that makes them feel almost sacred. The process of cooking is depicted with the same intensity and focus as the action sequences, highlighting the importance of food in the characters’ lives. What’s remarkable is how Kui Ryouko manages to make these cooking scenes both humorous and heartfelt. Each dish they create is a testament to their ingenuity and adaptability, turning even the most terrifying creatures into something delicious. This blend of humor and creativity gives Dungeon Meshi its unique charm, making it stand out in a crowded genre. Food: 10/10 At the heart of Dungeon Meshi are its characters, and it’s here that Kui Ryouko’s genius truly shines. The cast is diverse, each member of the party bringing their own quirks, strengths, and vulnerabilities to the table. Laios, the noble-hearted knight, serves as the leader of the group, and his love for monsters—both as creatures to understand and as ingredients to experiment with—drives much of the story’s humor and charm. His obsession with monsters might seem eccentric, but it’s rooted in a deep respect for the creatures that inhabit the dungeon. Laios’ character arc is one of growth and self-discovery as he learns to balance his fascination with the monsters with his responsibilities as a leader. Marcille, the elven mage, provides a counterbalance to Laios with her skepticism and delicate constitution. Her initial reluctance to eat monsters is both amusing and relatable, but over time, she comes to appreciate the necessity of their situation. Marcille’s journey is one of overcoming her fears and prejudices, and her growth is a testament to Kui Ryouko’s skill in creating multi-dimensional characters. Chilchuck, the pragmatic half-foot thief, brings a level-headedness to the group, often serving as the voice of reason when things get out of hand. His expertise in traps and dungeon navigation is invaluable, and his character adds a layer of practicality to the story. Senshi, the dwarf with an unparalleled knowledge of dungeon cuisine, is perhaps the most fascinating character. His passion for cooking and his deep understanding of the dungeon’s ecosystem make him both a mentor and a source of wisdom for the group. Senshi’s character embodies the theme of resourcefulness, and his dedication to using every part of a creature is both admirable and inspiring. His interactions with the other characters are always a delight, as he shares his vast knowledge and imparts lessons on survival through cooking. Senshi’s character arc is one of my favorite aspects of Dungeon Meshi. Kui Ryouko doesn’t shy away from exploring the psychological toll of their journey, making the characters feel more real and relatable. What makes these characters truly remarkable is the way their relationships evolve over the course of the series. The camaraderie that develops among them feels natural and earned, and the moments of humor are balanced with moments of genuine emotion, as the characters confront their fears, insecurities, and desires. At its core, Dungeon Meshi is a celebration of resourcefulness and the joy of discovery. The dungeon is not just a place of danger but a treasure trove of possibilities, waiting to be explored and understood. The characters’ ability to adapt to their environment, to find creative solutions to the challenges they face, is a central theme that runs throughout the series. But Dungeon Meshi is also about the thrill of discovery. Every corner of the dungeon holds a new surprise, a new mystery to unravel. The series captures the essence of what makes exploration so exciting—the sense of wonder, the anticipation of the unknown, and the satisfaction of uncovering something extraordinary. Kui Ryouko masterfully balances the tension of survival with the excitement of discovery, creating a narrative that is both gripping and uplifting. Characters: 10/10 The visual style of Dungeon Meshi complements its narrative brilliance. The animation is vibrant and detailed, bringing the dungeon’s creatures and culinary creations to life in vivid color. The character designs are expressive and endearing, capturing the unique personalities of each party member. The cooking sequences, in particular, are a visual treat, with a level of detail that will leave viewers hungry. The art style strikes a perfect balance between the fantastical and the realistic. The textures and colors used in the dungeon environments add to the sense of immersion, making the world feel both magical and tangible. The creatures are designed with a blend of creativity and believability, making them both terrifying and intriguing. The attention to detail in the animation enhances the storytelling, drawing the viewer into the world of Dungeon Meshi and making the experience all the more engaging. Art: 10/10 One of the standout aspects of the animation is its fluidity, especially during the action scenes. The battles are meticulously choreographed, with each movement flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a sense of dynamism that kept me fully engaged. The animators have paid close attention to the physics of the characters and their environment, ensuring that even the most fantastical actions feel grounded and believable. Whether it’s a high-stakes combat sequence or a character performing a mundane task, the motion is smooth and precise, contributing to the overall immersive experience. Animation: 10/10 This show has sated my long-held desire for a proper adaptation of Toriko. This is almost nothing like Toriko and yet it has that sense of wonder for food and appreciation for worldbuilding that made me lose myself in the world of Toriko to begin with. I would like to thank Kui Ryouko for reminding me that the joy of fantasy and adventure that I loved so much was a genre unto itself, separate from the repetitive re-incarnation and pseudo-fantasy that I’ve been consuming during my isekai-trash binges lately. Dungeon Meshi is more than just an anime; it’s an artistic landmark. Kui Ryouko has created a series that is both innovative and timeless, a work of genius that sets a new standard for what anime can achieve. The blend of adventure, comedy, strategic action, and gripping human drama is nothing short of masterful, creating a narrative that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. This show is one for the ages—a true work of art that deserves a place in a museum. It’s a series that will be remembered not just for its creativity and originality but for its depth and heart. Dungeon Meshi is a testament to the power of storytelling, a reminder that even in a genre as well-trodden as fantasy, there are still new and exciting stories to be told.
OnlyOneZueiro
07/10/2024, 09:25 PM
Dungeon Meshi. Ah, DUNGEON MESHI! It's becoming increasingly rare to watch an anime with such a good setting. The idea of detailing the creatures, dynamics and rules of a fantasy world sells very easily here, making it rich, varied and interesting. Apart from the infamous "gourmet" genre, the work's unique feature — dishes being prepared in a dungeon — is seamlessly woven into the narrative without feeling forced or disruptive, so it serves more as a bonus rather than a burden to the plot. The idea opened up space for certain clichés to be seen in a way completely outside the obvious: not only do they innovate,but they execute it brilliantly through intelligent writing. The world is bathed in a good dose of realism; there is no hegemony of the Homo Sapiens species. We don't have ridiculously overpowered characters and trivialized semi-omnipotent powers. We have adventurers trying to make a living. We have greedy managers and political conflicts. We have cheaters, crooks, good people who are not perfect, and neutral personalities. The creatures? They are a little different from animals, they invoke an image of perversity, they have special abilities, but they can be defeated with a bit of knowledge and skill. Following this history is almost like a slightly unbalanced pendulum: just when things seem to be approaching a endearing conclusion, there are twists and turns that make the conclusion move one hundred steps back. Funny and relaxing events anticipate immensely tense moments, the kind that begs for just a spark of comic relief. It's not terrifying, just as the humor isn't ridiculous — that what's cool: the work explores all the audience's emotions very well, in a balanced and subtle way. Each episode proceeds fluidly, balanced in screen time and with aspects of the work's genres well combined. The humor is always fitted in the right way and present in the ideal dose, despite being a little strange, at times, for some palates. The tension is real, there's no way to know what will actually happen during a fight. There are deaths, there is blood. There is always room to surprise. Are there any flaws? Arguably yes. Some small things could be better explained. Without knowing whether or not the work is original, without any other reference or bias, some events will seem rushed. The advantages of the work, already mentioned, are valid for 99% of the screen time, but… yes, there are some tedious and boring moments amidst so much greatness. The advantages and disadvantages are expected because of the "routine" in the plot — the pattern makes it easier to follow the story, but increases the need for surprises and twists. Do you think you have seen it all in terms of fantasy and medieval settings? Hah. The show's "originality" was not praised by figure of speech, you'll only feel how important and amazing it is when you consume the work. Many others were inspired and will be inspired: when you read a premise "to do <insert something different here> in dungeon" and it works right, know that Dungeon Meshi was a great reference to it! It's likely that future anime seasons won't deliver something as good as this in terms of "gourmet", at least not anytime soon. Maybe Dungeon Meshi it's the peak of what we can ever achieve, and can only be surpassed by himself, in a second season. Dungeon Meshi. Ah, Dungeon Meshi!
JJMFREAP
07/02/2024, 03:38 PM
Dungeon Meshi! Oooohhh, Dungeon Meshi! Man, the best way I can describe this anime is a string of pleasant surprises. It would constantly surpass expectations and following this one week by week as it was releasing was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. All I can say is that anyone, regardless if fantasy is usually your thing or not, should give this one a go. There is so much to love here, I think you'll really appreciate it. If you first get into Dungeon Meshi, you'd think that it's just some fantasy comedy with the unique spin being this time that the characters eat the monsters they killin the titular dungeon. And the anime definitely delivers on that front if that's what you're looking for. The integration of all the culinary aspects makes the experience stand out quite a bit and the integration of all the creative recipes is really fun. But the thing is, Dungeon Meshi is far more than just food jokes and here is where the pleasant surprises begin. As you experience the episodes, you discover that this series actually has some really solid worldbuilding behind it and the exploration of the universe makes the journey even more exciting. The lore just kept twisting and turning in all kinds of unexpected ways and this unpredictability will just keep you glued to the screen and eagerly anticipating the next episode. Over time, this seemingly wacky and tropey world starts to make sense and turns into a truly splendid backdrop for our adventure. Another pleasant surprise came from the characters and their interactions. Initially, it seems like the characters were chosen primarily for comedic chemistry. However, this isn't all there is to them. The entire main cast are full of nuance, layered personalities and rich histories. Not to mention that they are bursting at the seams with charisma. They truly grow on you and you just won't be able to get enough of them. Just their interactions during the quiet moments of respite are enough to keep you engaged. Also, all the side characters are well designed and really lovable too. And to top it all of, this character work is not at the expense of the comedy, which also remains strong all throughout. This anime will make you laugh again and again, but it will also tell you a very engaging tale that will keep you hooked for what's going to happen next! Beyond all that, on a purely technical level, this series is great! Artstyle is fun and lively, the animation is expressive and impactful, the voice acting is stellar, the music is awesome and the pacing was handled really well too. This is a Trigger creation but it doesn't feel like one for the most part. Only during the really big climactic fight scenes does the animation really pick up and showcase that trademark stretchy bouncy Trigger style. Not saying that last part as a critique, just an observation. The nature of the story doesn't really leave too much room for the animation to go crazy during most of the runtime. During then, the facial expressions do a lot of heavy lifting in terms of both comedy and emotion. Also all the food looks absolutely delectable! Overall, this anime came out of nowhere and it has taken the world by storm for good reason. Like I said at the start, Dungeon Meshi has this uncanny ability to consistently deliver pleasant surprises that you won't expect. It has great comedy, action, worldbuilding, characters and a thrilling plot that is yet to be resolved. To my delight, a second season has already been confirmed and I cannot wait! I'm glad this series got the love it deserves, for it surpasses all expectations. Also, can I just take a moment to mention how nice it is to see that this ISN'T an isekai? You can't take that for granted these days. Judging by the word "dungeon" in the name and the goofy premise, I thought it would be one for sure but thankfully it isn't and that definitely works to its favour. TLDR: Amazing anime that anyone should taste test. Pro tip, always have snacks on hand when watching, because you WILL get hungry!
pomegranit
06/25/2024, 11:35 AM
laios said "can someone match my freak" and then forced all his friends to + some existential horror (obsessed with this brand of horror) this feels like playing dnd with the buddies like just swiveling between we are besties! let's sit around and have fun! to here's the scientifically accurate lore! to YOU WILL THINK OF THIS WHEN YOU TRY TO FALL ASLEEP AT NIGHT! also i dont think i noticed a single plot hole? and not misogynistic fan service oh god is real But yeah. Anyways. ate. this is for all the dnd besties who need some inspirational juices flowing. i binged it whichi haven't done in a while with an anime
Latooq
06/21/2024, 04:42 PM
I am not into cooking anime. It just sounds like a torture: you have to look at some of the best looking meals with no chance to try them. So Delicious in Dungeon turned out to be my first one, and, man, the bar for other cooking anime is now set too high. And to demonstrate why Delicious in Dungeon is so good I have to quote Shrek, the best anime ever made: "Onions". Layer 1. The characters are the best thing this anime can offer. The main quartet is the most synergistic character ensemble I've seen recently. They never miss an opportunity to make funout of each other, but if there is any trouble every one of them is ready to offer a shoulder to cry on - in other words, it is perfect buddy energy. Although, I don't think they are as deep as rent-a-girlfriend's characters, so if the main protagonist was only Laios or Marcille, I wouldn't enjoy the anime as much. However, there is a potential for them to get more characterization in the future, because the character writing has been constantly improving throughout this season. Layer 2. The fantasy genre has the first stage of cancer and Delicious in Dungeon is here to provide chemotherapy. Fantasy anime have become so homogeneous offering nothing new but medieval settings, different races, magic, etc. Delicious in Dungeon makes this stale genre more digestible by combining fantasy with cooking. The earth golems are used to grow vegetables, the main characters activate a guillotine trap to chop some meat. It may not sound groundbreaking, but it makes a world of difference when compared to any other fantasy anime with absolutely zero original ideas. The world presentation is full of details. A lot of attention is dedicated to not only presenting a variety of different races and creatures and their place in the ecosystem but also creating a genuine world with its own history. The only flaw is the level design of the dungeon. In the first half it's tons of corridors made out of gray bricks, in the second half it's slightly rearranged gray bricks. Layer 3. Wow, everything has been going pretty smoothly so far, but the story is definitely going to be Achilles hill. The premise sounds like an excuse to write a story about some people exploring a dungeon and preparing dishes, but it couldn't be further from the truth. Without spoiling too much, the conflict established in the very first episode is resolved within this season. And I think the story is actually good with some twists and foreshadowing. You still have to keep in mind that the cooking is still the linchpin of the story, though. Another surprising factor was how dark this show sometimes can be, so don't let the openings deceive you. Being dark is not something worth praising per se, but the the grim atmosphere is what makes the jokes funny, because I doubt the comedy aspect would work if the tone was light-hearted. This show is the best Trigger's show in terms of story and the weakest in terms of production. It's not as fleshed out as some of their previous works. The animation sometimes can be rough, the openings and the endings use a lot of powerpoint, and I can be easily gaslighted to think that the music here was used in Frieren as well, because of how this ost is similar to any other fantasy themed osts. In summary, the show is fantastic and I'm happy the sequel is on its way, so I will be waiting for this one for sure. dUnGEon mEshi, OHhhHhh dUngEOn mEshi.
Hhirata
06/18/2024, 05:22 PM
Dungeon Meshi - holy crap ! I wanna to go on an adventure ! Dungeon meshi is a history about a party that lost on of their crew ... after some departs they start to crawl into the dungeon, without money and food to try save his fellew friend. Omg , this anime is kinda chaotic but on par, the history is just fantastic, every piece of it just fits ... It´s an food , adventure and comedy with a ton of mistery and some times a pinch of terro, anime. The dungeon and the world is fantastic, you really wanna know more about everything.And the cherry on the top are the characters. A kinda of crazy knight that is curious about eating monsters and serves the group togheter. The most fucking adorable and funny elf that is a powerfull magician but has her fears and weakness. A small man that is very carefull and looks cold, but really loves everybody. And the best waifu, the most chad dwarf, best cooker and the one that understand the dungeon. And for the least joing the group at the last part of the anime an beastwoman , a tsudere. I think the best part of dungen meshi is the interaction those characters have between them because the dungeon, you really care about their problems, you really care about the food and the world. History 10 - you really want to know more , everything in the history has a meaning, everybody too. Sometimes the history grabs you by the hand and guide thru without you knowing. There´s no BS. Characters 11 - this is the best part, how the characters interact with each other and the world is just perfect, they are just normal ppl with strong and weak parts in the world, there´s no orange character with demons, only ppl that feel real. Music 10 - watched the anime 6 days ago ... music is still hammering in my head ... Art 10 - well is trigger .... and the producer is Ootsuka, Masahiko, he got evangelion, flcl, kill la kill, guren lagan, cyberpunk edg, fruits basket and sss.grindaman under his hood ... ow ... and he got a ghibli movie under his hood ... A masterpiece ... if frieren got the best history ... dungeon meshi got the best anime and direction. Not gonna lie, this year animes are on another lvl.
patkarunungan
06/17/2024, 07:30 AM
Have you ever tasted something unpleasant and regretted biting it? You wanted to spew it but it's too late. But then, after 15 seconds or so, it started tasting good. That is what Dungeon Meshi felt. One tweet recommended it to be as good as Frieren as far as fantasy goes, so I went ahead blind. Sadly, I found it unpleasant to watch. The animation wasn't as great. The characters felt dull, and the story didn't grab me. The only thing interesting in the first episode was the character of Senshi, the dwarf who cooks for them. The first few episodes felt like a chore towatch, but at episode 3 or 4, it started to click. Falin, the sister of the main character Laios, was eaten by a red dragon. Laios and his party aim to rescue Falin. But on their way there, they use monsters as ingredients for cooking delicious meals. That's the premise. I don't think it's as good as Frieren, but one could argue that its humour is better, or at least once you get used to these characters and start liking them. Anyway, it starts to get dark midway and the plot gets serious. Just watch it and you'll be surprised. I know my experience is one out of many. Some people are hooked right away while others like me need a few episodes. If you're like me, don't let the boring first few episodes deter you.
Kamitori
06/16/2024, 03:08 PM
TL;DR Try to watch at least 3-4 episodes before dropping it! The animation and art are really good, and the characters too. OST is nice and they did a good job on it, and the story needs to build up so it slowly becomes better and more serious with a comedic topping on it. I think it would be easier to accept the goofiness of the story if you think of "Touden Laios" (the blonde guy and also his sister) as someone with autism, since he really acts, speaks, and does things a lot of people with autism do. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I'll tell you my experience with the show,maybe someone will have the same issue and could actually enjoy it: At first, I dropped this anime at episode 1, it was strange and looked boring especially since there was another anime about food that looked as bad as this anime. The art looked nice and the animation too, tbh it reminded me of Friren a little. However, all the food things didn't look appealing to me at all, so the decision to drop it was made. A couple of weeks later, when almost all the episodes finished airing somebody told me that it's actually good if you manage to watch the first 3-4 episodes. I decided to try again, and really, after episode 3 it became more and more interesting. It slowly built up, the characters started to open a little, you learn new things about each of them and the story itself started to take a more darkish and serious turn. In the end, I really enjoyed it and can suggest you give it a try. One of the issues I have with the show, strangely enough, is with the "openings - OP's" of the show. The first half of the story is mostly comedy, which little by little starts to take a more serious turn, but the second half is more serious, more darkish, and more tragic with comedic elements to it. However, in the OP's it's exactly the opposite. OP 1 makes it look like a serious show with comedic elements, and OP 2 makes it look like a comedy with a few serious elements to it when in reality it's the opposite. This is why I think OP 1 needs to be OP 2 and the second OP needed to be OP 1, of course with some changes to fit the characters in the show.
wntrprt
06/15/2024, 06:59 PM
Eat or be Eaten! Bring the simple fantasy world concept of adventuring to a boil and let the 6 level course meal begin! Laois Touden and his party get into a pickle on their descent in the dungeon and now must rescue Laios' sister, Falin. Unable to afford a meal at the local tavern, they venture back to the dungeon in hopes of conquering the lowest level. Their only means of survival is battling and consuming its inhabitants! Indeed, this well-balanced meal consists of a single ingredient: the monsters they face. An unlikely monster connoisseur cultivates their understanding around what is edible. There is much todigest, as they unravel the layers of mystery within this dung-onion and aim to beat the lunatic magician at the belly who cooked up this tantalizing dungeon. This meal is finished once they defeat this lunatic magician and become experts in monster nutrition as the Lord of the Dungeon. No matter how ravenous your appetite or how picky your palate, this five star meal will leave you stuffed and craving for seconds. Dungeon Meshi can be compared to a perfect burger. Everything from presentation to the taste is spellbinding, every ingredient naturally belongs and the flavors complimenting each other. Laios' party and their roles, history and motives as well as the other adventurers they meet are the bread bun and butter. The vegetables are the environment, that is the dungeon, each mouthful tells a slice of the unravelling secret. Every sound resonating within the dungeon is layered delicately as a sauce. The mere aftertaste of lunatic magician himself, evenly seasons and garnishes this burger. The meat is, well, literally monster meat. Every bite of Dungeon Meshi will be handmade to be enjoyable, chef's kiss. Dungeon Meshi cooks. Literally and Figuratively. Bon Appétit!
bacontrarian
06/15/2024, 04:08 AM
Dungeon Meshi is one of my favorite pieces of art to come out in recent years. On the surface, it looks like a simple slice of life or gag manga about cooking, but I truly feel like it’s the kind of special and epic show that’s comparable in scale and quality to titans like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The cast of characters is wide and diverse, and yet there isn’t a single weak link. Every character from visual design to characterization feels fully fleshed out and cared for regardless of how much screen time they have. Because the story is primarily confined to the dungeon, we don’tsee much of the rest of the world, but we can certainly feel its presence through the way the characters look and act. Entire essays can(and have) been written about Ryoko Kui’s mastery of the art of character design, and in particular I would recommend Lines in Motion’s video on this subject. The main cast of four alone might be the best I’ve seen in anime, on par with One Piece in a fraction of the amount of time. Halfway through the first cour, I already felt like I would die for these goofy goobers. Laios’s adorable obsession with monsters, Marcille’s aversion to anything outside of her comfort zone, Chilchuck’s professional attitude, and Senshi kind of being the dad of the group… Each one has their own unique quirks and motivations that play off of each other fluidly like a four-way game of table tennis. The worldbuilding is immaculate. At the start, it seems like a simple D&D-inspired fair with its mimics and orcs and elves and dwarves, but the mechanisms of the world are wholly original and Kui always has a unique twist on these seemingly played out ideas. She makes RPG mechanics like resurrection seem realistic and grounded while never taking away from the stakes and weight of the characters’ actions. Every part of the world she’s crafted feels meticulously planned out and thought over in a way that’s refreshing in a medium full of half-baked MMORPG slop. I loved Frieren for its incredible production and likable characters but I also felt that the worldbuilding there was incredibly basic. Speaking of production, Studio Trigger has done an incredible job with the adaptation so far. It’s certainly much more conventional and less crazy than their previous efforts like Kill La Kill or Cyberpunk Edgerunners, but it works perfectly with a series like this. It’s not as pristine or glossy as something like Frieren, but it has a rough edge to it that gives it a lot of personality and weight during its most impactful moments. As a minor point, to draw back to the Fullmetal Alchemist comparison, this show is as good as it is and yet also manages to have universal appeal outside of the anime niche. Name any annoying anime trope(fanservice, loli, perverted “comedy” characters), and you will find that none of it is present here. One of the most impressive things about the show, to me, is its tonal confidence and consistency. One thing you’ll hear a lot about Dungeon Meshi is how dark it can get at points, and it manages to do this while never going full edgelord and fumbling with the emotional identity it established for itself from the start. Every event feels consistent with what has been previously established, and because of this the show manages to go from silly cooking antics to emotionally devastating character revelations seamlessly. During a certain turning point in the show, I noticed that some people were concerned that the show was “going dark,” but no matter how dark the show gets it never loses its joyful and optimistic side. It’s one of the least cynical stories I’ve seen in recent years. It’s earnest and endearing and confident in a way that’s extremely refreshing. I really have nothing bad to say about this series, and I’m so happy that it’s getting the complete adaptation it deserves.
Chuy_diazz
06/15/2024, 12:08 AM
Dungeon Meshi, the anime responsible for raising my expectations when it comes to a fantasy anime. This story can easily meet your expectations, but it will especially do so if you belong to the DnD community or if you like cooking. This anime feels like a very well-crafted Dungeon and Dragons campaign. There is a main mission which is to rescue the protagonist's sister and there is a group with different roles and classes, who at first know very little of each other and will forge a bond as they progress through the dungeon. The main group is a bit peculiar, as they decide that tosave money and resources, they will have to eat the monsters that are in their way. The characters are very charismatic, each of them has their own background that is explained as the chapters progress. The anime has a fairly structured script and knows how to use all the elements within the dungeon. In fact the construction of the dungeon is so good that you never get bored of it, each floor is very interesting in its own way. Whether because of its biome, its monsters, traps or other characters they may encounter. The characters' stories are told at the most opportune moments. This anime has a crazy setting and always uses even the smallest elements to develop its characters. The whole story is very well-woven, things happen on the first floors that could seem like a joke in the episode. Only when you reach deeper floors, the things that seemed like a joke take on a more important relevance for the resolution of the main mission. I think the weakest thing about this anime is the final section because it is a little slow and anticlimactic compared to the middle chapters. They leave you with the emotion of resolving the main conflict but they deviate a little to continue telling more stories. This can be understood because this first season adapted the first half of the manga. Thanks to the fact that the second season has already been announced, this negative aspect can be understood since they are cooking the final and most interesting part.
Azdra
06/14/2024, 04:18 PM
(my first language is not english) First you get angry because something happends, you want to learn more about it but they start eating. This learning some information about the plot than getting attack or starting eating or get attack and eat it repeats it self a lot. Its fun to see the darwf making food but after a while you want more plot than food. Because of this I did think of droping it at first but when they really started to give the information about the plot you really want to continue watching. I have to say the characters are too good to be true.They are so different from each other but the interections their stupidity makes an enviroment that you want to see wats next. There is no action that made me think it was unnaturel to the charecter to do. The animation is really good. Thats all I am going to say about it.
fh1478
06/14/2024, 08:32 AM
Adventure and food, sword and spoon This is one of the funnest D&D Adventures I have seen in any medic. characters are delightful. They are not the deepest but they deep to be very fun and entertaining to see eat Monsters. And the world building was character, but it does need to put in our face it is in the background and it appears sometime but the anime does need to put it in our face and say oh, we are deep and smart. We have really figured it out. It's just hey we've done it good. How well flat out the dungeon is likean ecosystem you can see how one little part will change the, how it's a breathing living place and how much unique and delicious food. They can make in it. I was just breathtaking by all of the complexities put into this. I really enjoyed the character stay a funny but I still able to have deep and the main character is the weirdest of them. I mean even in this anime world full of Monster and weird stuff happening he is weird, but I love him he's Desire for knowledge about Monsters is adorable and creepy. quote How many nipples do you have. And studiet Trigger out dom themselves this anime looks wonderfully even if the animation isn't over a top all the time it still has a beauty to it and when it goes frantic. It's almost like the characters is losing their shape it adds so much personality and creativity to it. Tallman dwarfs elves all the well fought out races halflings. It is a wonderfully created show with so many logic to it. I absolutely love it. This show is so fun. It is pure joy with some gruesome scenes and violence to it, but that's what we have on our hard and delicious adventure.
olokinprime
06/14/2024, 07:46 AM
A near perfect anime adaptation of a beloved manga. It keeps the story faithful, the panels are basically the storyboards, the original design used as the character guides, and with the flourishes and techniques that anime directors have in their arsenal. The voice acting is on point, and that is very evident in the last two episodes where the characters switch racial appearances and quirks. The voice cast nailed it perfectly each time. I called it "near perfect" because this was just half the story. At least, we can expect another season thanks to the announcement after the last episode aired. This is an anime that can stand onits own merits, even if it does have a great manga story as its source material. Highly recommend, with the advice not to watch this on an empty stomach.
HetakuSoda
06/13/2024, 10:53 PM
The amount of great fantasy anime to come out this year has been unreal. Dungeon Meshi is very comparable to the recent Frieren, and even better in a lot of ways. The worldbuilding is some of the best not only in anime but in anything, and the way its unique and compelling story is told surrounding the central theme of Dungeon Food is nothing short of masterful. The cast is large but no character overstays their welcome; the main ~5 were all loveable and well-developed without taking away from the main attraction which is the dungeon. They got really creative with the problems and solutions,too. Overall, Trigger has saved anime yet again, can't wait for season 2.
KANLen09
06/13/2024, 07:01 AM
Delicious in Dungeon - Food! Glorious Food! Found only in the dungeon that has never tasted this great, both visually and tantalising, with great stories to follow. I always have faith when it comes to anime offerings from studio Trigger, one of the studios that always has an affluent, but ever-so-bombastic and consistent personality to their works. And for the first time in the studio's history since its founding, other than adapting its very first LN in the form of one of my favourite cult-classic works in the form of Fall 2014's LN author Kota Nozomi's Inou-Battle wa Nichijou-kei no Naka de a.k.a When Supernatural BattlesBecame Commonplace, Trigger has once again undertaken that same achievement, only this time in manga form, which represents acclaimed mangaka Ryoko Kui's Dungeon Meshi a.k.a Delicious in Dungeon. This is hands down, one of the best anime of the modern generation, embracing the dungeon-crawling RPG aspect, and also being a fantasy work that doesn't shy away from its contemporaries wholeheartedly. Nothing is being spared in the nook and cranny of the ever-so-illusive depths of dungeons. Dungeons are a staple of any fantasy work, and every and all adventurers will want to try to conquer its many levels in the usual raid of dungeon explorations, and in Dungeon Meshi's world, it is said to have a mysterious Golden Kingdom where it serves as the treasure of an island dungeon. And what started out like a typical normal scene of adventurers trying to slay huge monsters like dragons, with the likelihood of humans being consumed by these creatures should they unsuccessfully attempt to kill them to save their lives, this has to happen to one unlucky party group involving 4 people: a "tallman" human sibling duo, a half-foot/halfing and an half-elf, with the sister of the sibling duo unfortunately getting eaten by a red dragon, and the brother on a race against time before he can only recognize her in an after-digestion skeleton form. What also works against their favour is their survival, which hinges on their lack of resources (espeically food) and their only source lies within the same monsters that they're forced to consume regardless if they like it or not. The aspirations of the human, who has a fascination for monster food, forces his party to convene, that thanks to a dwarf who has made the same dungeon a home whilst, creates a story of not just all about dungeon food, but turning the huge place into another home which also carves stories of friendship and the hijinks of what to expect in a dungeon, like stories of madness and revenge, in a humorous way that doesn't take itself too seriously. This is the story of Dungeon Meshi, and the party that is Laios Touden, Marcille Donato, Chilchuck Tims and Senshi, and their quest to save Laios's younger sister, the talented Falin, while going about tasting all kinds of Delicious in Dungeon meals. To talk about Dungeon Meshi, is to realise mangaka Ryoko Kui's magnificent and masterful writing, something that she has built before the realisation of the series that we get to experience in manga form, now with the anime. Being a fan of fantasy, something that was brought up in her family, Kui has always been fascinated with the genre, and is greatly involved in the medium thanks to video games like Dragon Quest, Ultima, and Fire Emblem, and the one game series that would become the centerstage inspiration for the series: Wizardry. The author herself has also been noted for her style of portrayal of reality and fantasy with her unique point of view, something that can be described as embodying "unnaturalness." Kui's affinity for dragons throughout Dungeon Meshi, can be attributed to her smaller works, one of which is in the form of 2011–2012's fantasy comedy manga Terrarium in Drawer, which is a collection of short stories detailing the lives of multiple unrelated characters, ranging from fantastical to conceptual and everyday uniqueness. Its examination of highly fictional situations with a realistic lens, gives it a sense of authenticity that is plastered all around Dungeon Meshi. That's how you know that fantasy is embossed in every degree of perfection, and Ryoko Kui does not rely on pretence to show the inner workings of such a pedigree of work that's unparalleled. Truly, I've always thought of dungeons as a place of fear, trauma, and torture, and don't get me wrong, Dungeon Meshi has that, but it also knows how to play and poke fun in its adventure aesthetics, combining the comedy with the fantasy to give the entire show a feel as realistic as you can get. Laios and the party truly is one group of unique frenetics, all with their unique personalities that gives the dungeon hike a run for all of its offerings: the tallman swordsman having a talented spellcaster who was consumed by a big creature who dons on monster meals like it's the best thing in the whole world; the halfling locksmith who has an affinity for traps and expresses compassion with the least of his external expressions; the half-elf magician whom like Falin is also rather skilled but cautious in her approaches; and last but not least, the dwarf warrior whose dungeon shelter enables him to create great and balanced meals as a chef, not to mention his expertly vast knowledge that allows him to traverse through the dungeon like it's his second home. It's fun seeing Laios and the gang go through numerous situations, navigate through the dungeon's treacherous nature, and learn about the environment around them, Thanks to Ryoko Kui's impeccable writing, these half-hours of a 2-cour's worth of 24 episodes are truly some of the best time-wasters that anime as a medium can offer to just about anyone. Speaking of episodes, Trigger's mainstay director Yoshihiro Miyajima may not be the most talented of the bunch, but having author Ryoko Kui alongside him being "very involved" in the anime adaptation, definitely shows the high calibre of how faithful she wants her work to be seen on the small screen. And it really shows, from the immaculate detailing of the anime bringing the manga to life to even its action, which, if you've seen even a slither of Trigger's more recent works, is a lot of sakuga done with the blood, sweat, and tears of the talented staff team behind the anime. And honestly, Trigger doesn't really need to go ham on its first manga adaptation, but the studio did it anyways, and I'm all the happier for the people involved in this, like how most passion projects are done. So far, the anime is only halfway through its adaptation of the manga, so it definitely needs another 2-cour, 24 episodes of consistency to deliver on the promise of a complete adaptation. The music stands on its own quite well, too. Composed by famed musician Yasunori Mitsuda alongside Shunsuke Tsuchiya, Dungeon Meshi's OST is about as picturesque (on a sound platter) perfect as a dungeon-crawler RPG fest can be, considering that the former is best well known for video game OSTs given his time at Square (formerly Squaresoft, now Square Enix) composing for series like Chrono Trigger (and its sequel Chrono Cross), Xeno and Shadow Hearts, and even having a hand on the Inazuma Eleven franchise, creating some of the best music. The only negative comment I have for the show, is with its rather opaque OP/ED songs, which, while Bump of Chicken's "Sleep Walking Orchestra" is unironically THE best song of representation of the series, other songs like the EDs of Ryokuoushoku Shakai's "Party!" and Regal Lily's 2nd Cour ED are only visually striking, but the songs are just fine, not to mention sumika's 2nd Cour OP, which IMO was a disappointing departure from the fantasy elements it tried to portray, much less living up to the former's excellent showing both musically and visually. All in all, Dungeon Meshi a.k.a Delicious in Dungeon, is a truly fantastical and unique experience to be had, and I kid you not that it's unsarcastically one of the standouts (so far) of anime when it comes to 2024 that can promise you of a great time, even by Netflix's longer-than-thou episode durations that still feels like you're watching every episode every bit less than its supposed runtime. A daft show with its endearing touch of idiotic humour, who wouldn't want that? Only can you find this in Dungeon Meshi...ah, Delicious in Dungeon.

Dungeon Meshi ダンジョン飯

2024 winter | Episodes: 24 | Score: 8.6 (211810)

Updated every Thursdays at 22:30 | Status: Finished Airing

Type: TV

Producers:Ultra Super Pictures | Good Smile Company | Tencent Japan | Kadokawa

Streaming: Netflix

Synopsis

Voice Actors

Senbongi, Sayaka

Naka, Hiroshi

Ookuma, Kenta

Tomari, Asuna

Kumagai, Kentarou

Yorita, Natsu

News

Reviews

infedalities
01/09/2025, 09:28 AM
I took 3 days finishing this anime, which is super rare. It usually took me about a month, now that I am in anime series slump. This anime felt warm. NOW let's get to know me first, so that if you think we are similar, this review could be a great guide to you. But you can just skip to the paragraph below! 1) I am not into medieval fantasy anime. - I gave several popular one a chance. I want to enjoy them too - end up hating SAO - re:zero kept me entertained for a season but i am not continuing season 2 - the only one i truly enjoyedwas That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. but i do not have the motivation for season 2 2) I am picky about humour too. - humour i enjoy: saiki k, opm, dandadan - humour i do not enjoy: the devil is a part-timer, mashle, sakamaoto desu ga Regarding dungeon meshi, I started this solely for the cooking bits. I love seeing detailed food animation in anime. the only gourmet anime i've ever watched was shokugeki no soma. the food was good but characters and plot were horrible. Now I think the main reason Dungeon Meshi appealed so much to me was because I started it thinking it was about a dwarf chef opening a dungeon-themed restaurant set in medieval fantasy setting. I've never heard about the anime beside its title so I was literally diving in blind. The character not having a sense of urgency? I don't care! I watched it for the food not the plot. But hey gradually the plot appeals to me. and so were the characters. I especially love the main character Laios and Falin. And the anime got a lot of interesting scenes like the painting episode. It was fun and enjoyable to me. Most importantly, I love the humour. It landed, most of the time. The way it was delivered felt unique too. And if it missed, I did not cringe. Overall, I think you should know what you are diving into. If you are looking for an entertaining, not so heavy watch, by all means please give dungeon meshi a chance! But if you are looking for critically acclaimed or mind blowing plot (AOT/Death Note level), this anime isn't for you. And hey this is a heavy bias take but if you dismiss the recommended:not recommended ratio of this listing, the loss is yours :p
BlkAngle
11/09/2024, 03:42 PM
I must say that these days, there is no anime that is both relaxing and exciting and inspiring at the same time. And this anime was exactly that for me. It was clear from the very first episodes that this anime is a newly discovered pearl that is very different from other anime. Let's start with the criteria: Story: This anime was a roller coaster of emotions. In this anime, you will definitely enjoy the coloring and cooking of strange foods whose ingredients are dungeon monsters. You will enjoy a different story of survival and rescue and adventure. You will enjoy and be excited bythe different battles and the variety of fighting methods, as well as the various monsters and enemies. You will be amazed by the secrets that are revealed along with the anime's adventure group in the different stages of the dungeon. I think this anime was suitable for every taste and I enjoyed the story a lot. I highly recommend it, especially if you are interested in watching fiction with creative world building. Animation: Excellent! No problem! Smooth's coloring and movements were extremely expressive! Especially the way the food was cooked and the colors used to design them were so good that it seemed like they were talking to you! Character: The design and variety of the characters was unique! The different and unique personality of each character was well shown. And the art style and character design were very pleasant in my opinion and perfectly played the right vibe for the anime story. Sound: I really enjoyed both the opening and ending and they made me feel good. The OST songs were also appropriate and it was clear that the voice actors had done their job well. Overall, I must say that this was an unforgettable and unique experience and I really fell in love with this anime. I am sure that anyone will get lost in this anime after a few episodes and will not stop watching it. I am so excited to see the next season!
bergars
08/27/2024, 02:38 PM
Full-world fantasy really is back. I'm the kind of person who doesn't enjoy this kind of fantastical world in general. It's always how people explain the world itself that I excessively hate. The world needs context, the world needs to tell us everything; but nowadays, even with all the terrible Isekai that's been released, there's a glimmer of hope for fantasy itself. It's about constructing an interesting world, it's about making everybody in the story someone intriguing, and to give them a tangible, personal objective right from the beginning. Instead of trying to create an excessively deep story, this is one of those which createsan exciting tale, with some of THE MOST solid foundations I've ever experienced. Every character is different, every story matters to why they're where they must be. Their actions align with problems they don't understand, and having their trip go progressively worse, and worse as it goes along makes for such a good show. Yes, there's a general mystery, but instead of the mystery being the forefront, it's the personal stakes which connect me to everybody involved. As they ruin their lives outside the walls of the dungeon, it really feels inevitable for them to finish what they started. Yes, the food aspect works so well, it made it all feel like a slice of life, small objective thing, only to flip it on its head. It turned into an epic, weird, and intense story that's not afraid to explore the darker themes. I love the switch, and it made it all incredibly worth it. Something about the main characters not being super powerful, but more so, curious to a fault, makes it feel like a brewing tragedy. I don't know where it can go, and I'm as scared as I'm excited for it. Great animation, as expected by Trigger. Incredible voice acting, funny as hell, a little disturbing, unexpectedly interesting, and intense. PEAK character design (legitimately some of the best I've seen in a while). Please, watch it. This is just a huge recommendation. 9/10. I love me some acoustic representation.
rossjg
08/19/2024, 10:18 AM
Everyone has different tastes in anime and some anime that gel with others will not gel with you. Dungeon Meshi is one of the last shows I have watched from last season as I have never watched a gourmet anime before as I know they will not be for me. However, dungeons, dark fantasy, blood, gore and seriousness is for me, so I thought I would give it a shot with the hopes it will turn into this later in the series. Does Dungeon Meshi change its tone mid way through? Sort of yes! Does it do it well? Not for me. I think it wasthe breaks in serious tone each episode back to cooking that ruined the immersion. Characters, Music or World Building can make or break a show. If you hit all three you get a 10/10. Dungeon Meshi hit none of those for me. The characters were incredibly bland. Laios, Senshi and Chilchuck just didn't have what is required. They don't have the depth of Rudeous (Mushoku Tensei), the complexity of Guts (Berserk), the Epicness of Shadow (Eminence of Shadow), the psychotic Esdeath (Akame Ga Kill) etc. Don't get me wrong there's nothing wrong with Dungeon Meshi's characters. They are just missing the sparks of the others I listed above. However, I did enjoy Marcille though. Her comedic relief was on point as I rarely laugh during anime and she hit the mark. The music was no good either. Lets be honest there was no bangers played that make you leap out of your seat in excitement that are in anime like Death Note, Code Geass, Berserk, Parasyte etc. I could play you a song from those anime and most anime fans would identify it immediately. If I played you a song from Dungeon Meshi outside of the OST I'm sure people would not recognise it. If you are reading this review and haven't watched Dungeon Meshi yet I will advise you to definitely give it a shot. Its 8.6 rating says you should. To those reading this review that have watched the show and loved it, I take you back to my opening sentence that everyone has different tastes and as much as I wanted to love this anime, very sadly it just didn't resonate with me. However, I will give season 2 a shot when it comes out.
phantom346
08/10/2024, 03:48 PM
The Most Rich and Innovative Show I Have Ever Watched I don’t say this lightly. I have a big head, and I’m not quick to compliment authors on their writing as genius, but even I have to admit that Kui Ryouko is an absolute genius—undeniably smarter than me. Dungeon Meshi stands as a testament to her extraordinary intellect, a culmination of vast knowledge in fantasy and mythological lore, combined with an absurdly vivid imagination. The world Kui-san has crafted is nothing short of a masterpiece, rich in detail and bursting with creativity. The worldbuilding is so brilliant that I’m at a loss for words that canfully express my admiration. The foundation of Dungeon Meshi lies in its meticulously crafted world. Kui Ryouko has taken the standard fantasy dungeon-crawling premise and elevated it to a level of depth and originality that is rarely seen. The dungeon in Dungeon Meshi is not just a backdrop for the adventure but a living, breathing ecosystem filled with its own history, cultures, and rules. Each level of the dungeon is distinct, dangerous and wondrous. From ancient ruins to lush forests, the variety is staggering. This diversity in settings ensures that the series never feels monotonous; every episode brings a new challenge, a new discovery, and a new opportunity to explore the world Kui-san has so meticulously designed. What sets Dungeon Meshi apart is how this worldbuilding is seamlessly integrated with the narrative. The creatures that inhabit the dungeon are not just obstacles but integral parts of the ecosystem. Every monster has a role to play, and their presence is justified within the logic of the world. This level of detail reflects Kui Ryouko’s deep understanding of fantasy and mythological lore. She doesn’t just create creatures; she breathes life into them, making them feel like they belong in the world rather than just being there to provide action sequences. Story: 10/10 One of the most innovative aspects of Dungeon Meshi is its focus on food. In a genre where survival often takes precedence over all else, Kui Ryouko introduces the concept of using the monsters in the dungeon as ingredients for meals. This culinary twist is not just a gimmick; it’s a central theme that ties the entire series together. The idea of cooking and eating monsters adds a layer of creativity that causes the characters to constantly experiment with new recipes, turning what could be a mundane survival story into a gourmet adventure. The food in Dungeon Meshi is more than just sustenance; it’s a way for the characters to connect with the world around them. The act of preparing and eating meals becomes a ritual, a moment of respite in their dangerous journey. These scenes are presented with a level of detail and care that makes them feel almost sacred. The process of cooking is depicted with the same intensity and focus as the action sequences, highlighting the importance of food in the characters’ lives. What’s remarkable is how Kui Ryouko manages to make these cooking scenes both humorous and heartfelt. Each dish they create is a testament to their ingenuity and adaptability, turning even the most terrifying creatures into something delicious. This blend of humor and creativity gives Dungeon Meshi its unique charm, making it stand out in a crowded genre. Food: 10/10 At the heart of Dungeon Meshi are its characters, and it’s here that Kui Ryouko’s genius truly shines. The cast is diverse, each member of the party bringing their own quirks, strengths, and vulnerabilities to the table. Laios, the noble-hearted knight, serves as the leader of the group, and his love for monsters—both as creatures to understand and as ingredients to experiment with—drives much of the story’s humor and charm. His obsession with monsters might seem eccentric, but it’s rooted in a deep respect for the creatures that inhabit the dungeon. Laios’ character arc is one of growth and self-discovery as he learns to balance his fascination with the monsters with his responsibilities as a leader. Marcille, the elven mage, provides a counterbalance to Laios with her skepticism and delicate constitution. Her initial reluctance to eat monsters is both amusing and relatable, but over time, she comes to appreciate the necessity of their situation. Marcille’s journey is one of overcoming her fears and prejudices, and her growth is a testament to Kui Ryouko’s skill in creating multi-dimensional characters. Chilchuck, the pragmatic half-foot thief, brings a level-headedness to the group, often serving as the voice of reason when things get out of hand. His expertise in traps and dungeon navigation is invaluable, and his character adds a layer of practicality to the story. Senshi, the dwarf with an unparalleled knowledge of dungeon cuisine, is perhaps the most fascinating character. His passion for cooking and his deep understanding of the dungeon’s ecosystem make him both a mentor and a source of wisdom for the group. Senshi’s character embodies the theme of resourcefulness, and his dedication to using every part of a creature is both admirable and inspiring. His interactions with the other characters are always a delight, as he shares his vast knowledge and imparts lessons on survival through cooking. Senshi’s character arc is one of my favorite aspects of Dungeon Meshi. Kui Ryouko doesn’t shy away from exploring the psychological toll of their journey, making the characters feel more real and relatable. What makes these characters truly remarkable is the way their relationships evolve over the course of the series. The camaraderie that develops among them feels natural and earned, and the moments of humor are balanced with moments of genuine emotion, as the characters confront their fears, insecurities, and desires. At its core, Dungeon Meshi is a celebration of resourcefulness and the joy of discovery. The dungeon is not just a place of danger but a treasure trove of possibilities, waiting to be explored and understood. The characters’ ability to adapt to their environment, to find creative solutions to the challenges they face, is a central theme that runs throughout the series. But Dungeon Meshi is also about the thrill of discovery. Every corner of the dungeon holds a new surprise, a new mystery to unravel. The series captures the essence of what makes exploration so exciting—the sense of wonder, the anticipation of the unknown, and the satisfaction of uncovering something extraordinary. Kui Ryouko masterfully balances the tension of survival with the excitement of discovery, creating a narrative that is both gripping and uplifting. Characters: 10/10 The visual style of Dungeon Meshi complements its narrative brilliance. The animation is vibrant and detailed, bringing the dungeon’s creatures and culinary creations to life in vivid color. The character designs are expressive and endearing, capturing the unique personalities of each party member. The cooking sequences, in particular, are a visual treat, with a level of detail that will leave viewers hungry. The art style strikes a perfect balance between the fantastical and the realistic. The textures and colors used in the dungeon environments add to the sense of immersion, making the world feel both magical and tangible. The creatures are designed with a blend of creativity and believability, making them both terrifying and intriguing. The attention to detail in the animation enhances the storytelling, drawing the viewer into the world of Dungeon Meshi and making the experience all the more engaging. Art: 10/10 One of the standout aspects of the animation is its fluidity, especially during the action scenes. The battles are meticulously choreographed, with each movement flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a sense of dynamism that kept me fully engaged. The animators have paid close attention to the physics of the characters and their environment, ensuring that even the most fantastical actions feel grounded and believable. Whether it’s a high-stakes combat sequence or a character performing a mundane task, the motion is smooth and precise, contributing to the overall immersive experience. Animation: 10/10 This show has sated my long-held desire for a proper adaptation of Toriko. This is almost nothing like Toriko and yet it has that sense of wonder for food and appreciation for worldbuilding that made me lose myself in the world of Toriko to begin with. I would like to thank Kui Ryouko for reminding me that the joy of fantasy and adventure that I loved so much was a genre unto itself, separate from the repetitive re-incarnation and pseudo-fantasy that I’ve been consuming during my isekai-trash binges lately. Dungeon Meshi is more than just an anime; it’s an artistic landmark. Kui Ryouko has created a series that is both innovative and timeless, a work of genius that sets a new standard for what anime can achieve. The blend of adventure, comedy, strategic action, and gripping human drama is nothing short of masterful, creating a narrative that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. This show is one for the ages—a true work of art that deserves a place in a museum. It’s a series that will be remembered not just for its creativity and originality but for its depth and heart. Dungeon Meshi is a testament to the power of storytelling, a reminder that even in a genre as well-trodden as fantasy, there are still new and exciting stories to be told.
OnlyOneZueiro
07/10/2024, 09:25 PM
Dungeon Meshi. Ah, DUNGEON MESHI! It's becoming increasingly rare to watch an anime with such a good setting. The idea of detailing the creatures, dynamics and rules of a fantasy world sells very easily here, making it rich, varied and interesting. Apart from the infamous "gourmet" genre, the work's unique feature — dishes being prepared in a dungeon — is seamlessly woven into the narrative without feeling forced or disruptive, so it serves more as a bonus rather than a burden to the plot. The idea opened up space for certain clichés to be seen in a way completely outside the obvious: not only do they innovate,but they execute it brilliantly through intelligent writing. The world is bathed in a good dose of realism; there is no hegemony of the Homo Sapiens species. We don't have ridiculously overpowered characters and trivialized semi-omnipotent powers. We have adventurers trying to make a living. We have greedy managers and political conflicts. We have cheaters, crooks, good people who are not perfect, and neutral personalities. The creatures? They are a little different from animals, they invoke an image of perversity, they have special abilities, but they can be defeated with a bit of knowledge and skill. Following this history is almost like a slightly unbalanced pendulum: just when things seem to be approaching a endearing conclusion, there are twists and turns that make the conclusion move one hundred steps back. Funny and relaxing events anticipate immensely tense moments, the kind that begs for just a spark of comic relief. It's not terrifying, just as the humor isn't ridiculous — that what's cool: the work explores all the audience's emotions very well, in a balanced and subtle way. Each episode proceeds fluidly, balanced in screen time and with aspects of the work's genres well combined. The humor is always fitted in the right way and present in the ideal dose, despite being a little strange, at times, for some palates. The tension is real, there's no way to know what will actually happen during a fight. There are deaths, there is blood. There is always room to surprise. Are there any flaws? Arguably yes. Some small things could be better explained. Without knowing whether or not the work is original, without any other reference or bias, some events will seem rushed. The advantages of the work, already mentioned, are valid for 99% of the screen time, but… yes, there are some tedious and boring moments amidst so much greatness. The advantages and disadvantages are expected because of the "routine" in the plot — the pattern makes it easier to follow the story, but increases the need for surprises and twists. Do you think you have seen it all in terms of fantasy and medieval settings? Hah. The show's "originality" was not praised by figure of speech, you'll only feel how important and amazing it is when you consume the work. Many others were inspired and will be inspired: when you read a premise "to do <insert something different here> in dungeon" and it works right, know that Dungeon Meshi was a great reference to it! It's likely that future anime seasons won't deliver something as good as this in terms of "gourmet", at least not anytime soon. Maybe Dungeon Meshi it's the peak of what we can ever achieve, and can only be surpassed by himself, in a second season. Dungeon Meshi. Ah, Dungeon Meshi!
JJMFREAP
07/02/2024, 03:38 PM
Dungeon Meshi! Oooohhh, Dungeon Meshi! Man, the best way I can describe this anime is a string of pleasant surprises. It would constantly surpass expectations and following this one week by week as it was releasing was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. All I can say is that anyone, regardless if fantasy is usually your thing or not, should give this one a go. There is so much to love here, I think you'll really appreciate it. If you first get into Dungeon Meshi, you'd think that it's just some fantasy comedy with the unique spin being this time that the characters eat the monsters they killin the titular dungeon. And the anime definitely delivers on that front if that's what you're looking for. The integration of all the culinary aspects makes the experience stand out quite a bit and the integration of all the creative recipes is really fun. But the thing is, Dungeon Meshi is far more than just food jokes and here is where the pleasant surprises begin. As you experience the episodes, you discover that this series actually has some really solid worldbuilding behind it and the exploration of the universe makes the journey even more exciting. The lore just kept twisting and turning in all kinds of unexpected ways and this unpredictability will just keep you glued to the screen and eagerly anticipating the next episode. Over time, this seemingly wacky and tropey world starts to make sense and turns into a truly splendid backdrop for our adventure. Another pleasant surprise came from the characters and their interactions. Initially, it seems like the characters were chosen primarily for comedic chemistry. However, this isn't all there is to them. The entire main cast are full of nuance, layered personalities and rich histories. Not to mention that they are bursting at the seams with charisma. They truly grow on you and you just won't be able to get enough of them. Just their interactions during the quiet moments of respite are enough to keep you engaged. Also, all the side characters are well designed and really lovable too. And to top it all of, this character work is not at the expense of the comedy, which also remains strong all throughout. This anime will make you laugh again and again, but it will also tell you a very engaging tale that will keep you hooked for what's going to happen next! Beyond all that, on a purely technical level, this series is great! Artstyle is fun and lively, the animation is expressive and impactful, the voice acting is stellar, the music is awesome and the pacing was handled really well too. This is a Trigger creation but it doesn't feel like one for the most part. Only during the really big climactic fight scenes does the animation really pick up and showcase that trademark stretchy bouncy Trigger style. Not saying that last part as a critique, just an observation. The nature of the story doesn't really leave too much room for the animation to go crazy during most of the runtime. During then, the facial expressions do a lot of heavy lifting in terms of both comedy and emotion. Also all the food looks absolutely delectable! Overall, this anime came out of nowhere and it has taken the world by storm for good reason. Like I said at the start, Dungeon Meshi has this uncanny ability to consistently deliver pleasant surprises that you won't expect. It has great comedy, action, worldbuilding, characters and a thrilling plot that is yet to be resolved. To my delight, a second season has already been confirmed and I cannot wait! I'm glad this series got the love it deserves, for it surpasses all expectations. Also, can I just take a moment to mention how nice it is to see that this ISN'T an isekai? You can't take that for granted these days. Judging by the word "dungeon" in the name and the goofy premise, I thought it would be one for sure but thankfully it isn't and that definitely works to its favour. TLDR: Amazing anime that anyone should taste test. Pro tip, always have snacks on hand when watching, because you WILL get hungry!
pomegranit
06/25/2024, 11:35 AM
laios said "can someone match my freak" and then forced all his friends to + some existential horror (obsessed with this brand of horror) this feels like playing dnd with the buddies like just swiveling between we are besties! let's sit around and have fun! to here's the scientifically accurate lore! to YOU WILL THINK OF THIS WHEN YOU TRY TO FALL ASLEEP AT NIGHT! also i dont think i noticed a single plot hole? and not misogynistic fan service oh god is real But yeah. Anyways. ate. this is for all the dnd besties who need some inspirational juices flowing. i binged it whichi haven't done in a while with an anime
Latooq
06/21/2024, 04:42 PM
I am not into cooking anime. It just sounds like a torture: you have to look at some of the best looking meals with no chance to try them. So Delicious in Dungeon turned out to be my first one, and, man, the bar for other cooking anime is now set too high. And to demonstrate why Delicious in Dungeon is so good I have to quote Shrek, the best anime ever made: "Onions". Layer 1. The characters are the best thing this anime can offer. The main quartet is the most synergistic character ensemble I've seen recently. They never miss an opportunity to make funout of each other, but if there is any trouble every one of them is ready to offer a shoulder to cry on - in other words, it is perfect buddy energy. Although, I don't think they are as deep as rent-a-girlfriend's characters, so if the main protagonist was only Laios or Marcille, I wouldn't enjoy the anime as much. However, there is a potential for them to get more characterization in the future, because the character writing has been constantly improving throughout this season. Layer 2. The fantasy genre has the first stage of cancer and Delicious in Dungeon is here to provide chemotherapy. Fantasy anime have become so homogeneous offering nothing new but medieval settings, different races, magic, etc. Delicious in Dungeon makes this stale genre more digestible by combining fantasy with cooking. The earth golems are used to grow vegetables, the main characters activate a guillotine trap to chop some meat. It may not sound groundbreaking, but it makes a world of difference when compared to any other fantasy anime with absolutely zero original ideas. The world presentation is full of details. A lot of attention is dedicated to not only presenting a variety of different races and creatures and their place in the ecosystem but also creating a genuine world with its own history. The only flaw is the level design of the dungeon. In the first half it's tons of corridors made out of gray bricks, in the second half it's slightly rearranged gray bricks. Layer 3. Wow, everything has been going pretty smoothly so far, but the story is definitely going to be Achilles hill. The premise sounds like an excuse to write a story about some people exploring a dungeon and preparing dishes, but it couldn't be further from the truth. Without spoiling too much, the conflict established in the very first episode is resolved within this season. And I think the story is actually good with some twists and foreshadowing. You still have to keep in mind that the cooking is still the linchpin of the story, though. Another surprising factor was how dark this show sometimes can be, so don't let the openings deceive you. Being dark is not something worth praising per se, but the the grim atmosphere is what makes the jokes funny, because I doubt the comedy aspect would work if the tone was light-hearted. This show is the best Trigger's show in terms of story and the weakest in terms of production. It's not as fleshed out as some of their previous works. The animation sometimes can be rough, the openings and the endings use a lot of powerpoint, and I can be easily gaslighted to think that the music here was used in Frieren as well, because of how this ost is similar to any other fantasy themed osts. In summary, the show is fantastic and I'm happy the sequel is on its way, so I will be waiting for this one for sure. dUnGEon mEshi, OHhhHhh dUngEOn mEshi.
Hhirata
06/18/2024, 05:22 PM
Dungeon Meshi - holy crap ! I wanna to go on an adventure ! Dungeon meshi is a history about a party that lost on of their crew ... after some departs they start to crawl into the dungeon, without money and food to try save his fellew friend. Omg , this anime is kinda chaotic but on par, the history is just fantastic, every piece of it just fits ... It´s an food , adventure and comedy with a ton of mistery and some times a pinch of terro, anime. The dungeon and the world is fantastic, you really wanna know more about everything.And the cherry on the top are the characters. A kinda of crazy knight that is curious about eating monsters and serves the group togheter. The most fucking adorable and funny elf that is a powerfull magician but has her fears and weakness. A small man that is very carefull and looks cold, but really loves everybody. And the best waifu, the most chad dwarf, best cooker and the one that understand the dungeon. And for the least joing the group at the last part of the anime an beastwoman , a tsudere. I think the best part of dungen meshi is the interaction those characters have between them because the dungeon, you really care about their problems, you really care about the food and the world. History 10 - you really want to know more , everything in the history has a meaning, everybody too. Sometimes the history grabs you by the hand and guide thru without you knowing. There´s no BS. Characters 11 - this is the best part, how the characters interact with each other and the world is just perfect, they are just normal ppl with strong and weak parts in the world, there´s no orange character with demons, only ppl that feel real. Music 10 - watched the anime 6 days ago ... music is still hammering in my head ... Art 10 - well is trigger .... and the producer is Ootsuka, Masahiko, he got evangelion, flcl, kill la kill, guren lagan, cyberpunk edg, fruits basket and sss.grindaman under his hood ... ow ... and he got a ghibli movie under his hood ... A masterpiece ... if frieren got the best history ... dungeon meshi got the best anime and direction. Not gonna lie, this year animes are on another lvl.
patkarunungan
06/17/2024, 07:30 AM
Have you ever tasted something unpleasant and regretted biting it? You wanted to spew it but it's too late. But then, after 15 seconds or so, it started tasting good. That is what Dungeon Meshi felt. One tweet recommended it to be as good as Frieren as far as fantasy goes, so I went ahead blind. Sadly, I found it unpleasant to watch. The animation wasn't as great. The characters felt dull, and the story didn't grab me. The only thing interesting in the first episode was the character of Senshi, the dwarf who cooks for them. The first few episodes felt like a chore towatch, but at episode 3 or 4, it started to click. Falin, the sister of the main character Laios, was eaten by a red dragon. Laios and his party aim to rescue Falin. But on their way there, they use monsters as ingredients for cooking delicious meals. That's the premise. I don't think it's as good as Frieren, but one could argue that its humour is better, or at least once you get used to these characters and start liking them. Anyway, it starts to get dark midway and the plot gets serious. Just watch it and you'll be surprised. I know my experience is one out of many. Some people are hooked right away while others like me need a few episodes. If you're like me, don't let the boring first few episodes deter you.
Kamitori
06/16/2024, 03:08 PM
TL;DR Try to watch at least 3-4 episodes before dropping it! The animation and art are really good, and the characters too. OST is nice and they did a good job on it, and the story needs to build up so it slowly becomes better and more serious with a comedic topping on it. I think it would be easier to accept the goofiness of the story if you think of "Touden Laios" (the blonde guy and also his sister) as someone with autism, since he really acts, speaks, and does things a lot of people with autism do. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I'll tell you my experience with the show,maybe someone will have the same issue and could actually enjoy it: At first, I dropped this anime at episode 1, it was strange and looked boring especially since there was another anime about food that looked as bad as this anime. The art looked nice and the animation too, tbh it reminded me of Friren a little. However, all the food things didn't look appealing to me at all, so the decision to drop it was made. A couple of weeks later, when almost all the episodes finished airing somebody told me that it's actually good if you manage to watch the first 3-4 episodes. I decided to try again, and really, after episode 3 it became more and more interesting. It slowly built up, the characters started to open a little, you learn new things about each of them and the story itself started to take a more darkish and serious turn. In the end, I really enjoyed it and can suggest you give it a try. One of the issues I have with the show, strangely enough, is with the "openings - OP's" of the show. The first half of the story is mostly comedy, which little by little starts to take a more serious turn, but the second half is more serious, more darkish, and more tragic with comedic elements to it. However, in the OP's it's exactly the opposite. OP 1 makes it look like a serious show with comedic elements, and OP 2 makes it look like a comedy with a few serious elements to it when in reality it's the opposite. This is why I think OP 1 needs to be OP 2 and the second OP needed to be OP 1, of course with some changes to fit the characters in the show.
wntrprt
06/15/2024, 06:59 PM
Eat or be Eaten! Bring the simple fantasy world concept of adventuring to a boil and let the 6 level course meal begin! Laois Touden and his party get into a pickle on their descent in the dungeon and now must rescue Laios' sister, Falin. Unable to afford a meal at the local tavern, they venture back to the dungeon in hopes of conquering the lowest level. Their only means of survival is battling and consuming its inhabitants! Indeed, this well-balanced meal consists of a single ingredient: the monsters they face. An unlikely monster connoisseur cultivates their understanding around what is edible. There is much todigest, as they unravel the layers of mystery within this dung-onion and aim to beat the lunatic magician at the belly who cooked up this tantalizing dungeon. This meal is finished once they defeat this lunatic magician and become experts in monster nutrition as the Lord of the Dungeon. No matter how ravenous your appetite or how picky your palate, this five star meal will leave you stuffed and craving for seconds. Dungeon Meshi can be compared to a perfect burger. Everything from presentation to the taste is spellbinding, every ingredient naturally belongs and the flavors complimenting each other. Laios' party and their roles, history and motives as well as the other adventurers they meet are the bread bun and butter. The vegetables are the environment, that is the dungeon, each mouthful tells a slice of the unravelling secret. Every sound resonating within the dungeon is layered delicately as a sauce. The mere aftertaste of lunatic magician himself, evenly seasons and garnishes this burger. The meat is, well, literally monster meat. Every bite of Dungeon Meshi will be handmade to be enjoyable, chef's kiss. Dungeon Meshi cooks. Literally and Figuratively. Bon Appétit!
bacontrarian
06/15/2024, 04:08 AM
Dungeon Meshi is one of my favorite pieces of art to come out in recent years. On the surface, it looks like a simple slice of life or gag manga about cooking, but I truly feel like it’s the kind of special and epic show that’s comparable in scale and quality to titans like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The cast of characters is wide and diverse, and yet there isn’t a single weak link. Every character from visual design to characterization feels fully fleshed out and cared for regardless of how much screen time they have. Because the story is primarily confined to the dungeon, we don’tsee much of the rest of the world, but we can certainly feel its presence through the way the characters look and act. Entire essays can(and have) been written about Ryoko Kui’s mastery of the art of character design, and in particular I would recommend Lines in Motion’s video on this subject. The main cast of four alone might be the best I’ve seen in anime, on par with One Piece in a fraction of the amount of time. Halfway through the first cour, I already felt like I would die for these goofy goobers. Laios’s adorable obsession with monsters, Marcille’s aversion to anything outside of her comfort zone, Chilchuck’s professional attitude, and Senshi kind of being the dad of the group… Each one has their own unique quirks and motivations that play off of each other fluidly like a four-way game of table tennis. The worldbuilding is immaculate. At the start, it seems like a simple D&D-inspired fair with its mimics and orcs and elves and dwarves, but the mechanisms of the world are wholly original and Kui always has a unique twist on these seemingly played out ideas. She makes RPG mechanics like resurrection seem realistic and grounded while never taking away from the stakes and weight of the characters’ actions. Every part of the world she’s crafted feels meticulously planned out and thought over in a way that’s refreshing in a medium full of half-baked MMORPG slop. I loved Frieren for its incredible production and likable characters but I also felt that the worldbuilding there was incredibly basic. Speaking of production, Studio Trigger has done an incredible job with the adaptation so far. It’s certainly much more conventional and less crazy than their previous efforts like Kill La Kill or Cyberpunk Edgerunners, but it works perfectly with a series like this. It’s not as pristine or glossy as something like Frieren, but it has a rough edge to it that gives it a lot of personality and weight during its most impactful moments. As a minor point, to draw back to the Fullmetal Alchemist comparison, this show is as good as it is and yet also manages to have universal appeal outside of the anime niche. Name any annoying anime trope(fanservice, loli, perverted “comedy” characters), and you will find that none of it is present here. One of the most impressive things about the show, to me, is its tonal confidence and consistency. One thing you’ll hear a lot about Dungeon Meshi is how dark it can get at points, and it manages to do this while never going full edgelord and fumbling with the emotional identity it established for itself from the start. Every event feels consistent with what has been previously established, and because of this the show manages to go from silly cooking antics to emotionally devastating character revelations seamlessly. During a certain turning point in the show, I noticed that some people were concerned that the show was “going dark,” but no matter how dark the show gets it never loses its joyful and optimistic side. It’s one of the least cynical stories I’ve seen in recent years. It’s earnest and endearing and confident in a way that’s extremely refreshing. I really have nothing bad to say about this series, and I’m so happy that it’s getting the complete adaptation it deserves.
Chuy_diazz
06/15/2024, 12:08 AM
Dungeon Meshi, the anime responsible for raising my expectations when it comes to a fantasy anime. This story can easily meet your expectations, but it will especially do so if you belong to the DnD community or if you like cooking. This anime feels like a very well-crafted Dungeon and Dragons campaign. There is a main mission which is to rescue the protagonist's sister and there is a group with different roles and classes, who at first know very little of each other and will forge a bond as they progress through the dungeon. The main group is a bit peculiar, as they decide that tosave money and resources, they will have to eat the monsters that are in their way. The characters are very charismatic, each of them has their own background that is explained as the chapters progress. The anime has a fairly structured script and knows how to use all the elements within the dungeon. In fact the construction of the dungeon is so good that you never get bored of it, each floor is very interesting in its own way. Whether because of its biome, its monsters, traps or other characters they may encounter. The characters' stories are told at the most opportune moments. This anime has a crazy setting and always uses even the smallest elements to develop its characters. The whole story is very well-woven, things happen on the first floors that could seem like a joke in the episode. Only when you reach deeper floors, the things that seemed like a joke take on a more important relevance for the resolution of the main mission. I think the weakest thing about this anime is the final section because it is a little slow and anticlimactic compared to the middle chapters. They leave you with the emotion of resolving the main conflict but they deviate a little to continue telling more stories. This can be understood because this first season adapted the first half of the manga. Thanks to the fact that the second season has already been announced, this negative aspect can be understood since they are cooking the final and most interesting part.
Azdra
06/14/2024, 04:18 PM
(my first language is not english) First you get angry because something happends, you want to learn more about it but they start eating. This learning some information about the plot than getting attack or starting eating or get attack and eat it repeats it self a lot. Its fun to see the darwf making food but after a while you want more plot than food. Because of this I did think of droping it at first but when they really started to give the information about the plot you really want to continue watching. I have to say the characters are too good to be true.They are so different from each other but the interections their stupidity makes an enviroment that you want to see wats next. There is no action that made me think it was unnaturel to the charecter to do. The animation is really good. Thats all I am going to say about it.
fh1478
06/14/2024, 08:32 AM
Adventure and food, sword and spoon This is one of the funnest D&D Adventures I have seen in any medic. characters are delightful. They are not the deepest but they deep to be very fun and entertaining to see eat Monsters. And the world building was character, but it does need to put in our face it is in the background and it appears sometime but the anime does need to put it in our face and say oh, we are deep and smart. We have really figured it out. It's just hey we've done it good. How well flat out the dungeon is likean ecosystem you can see how one little part will change the, how it's a breathing living place and how much unique and delicious food. They can make in it. I was just breathtaking by all of the complexities put into this. I really enjoyed the character stay a funny but I still able to have deep and the main character is the weirdest of them. I mean even in this anime world full of Monster and weird stuff happening he is weird, but I love him he's Desire for knowledge about Monsters is adorable and creepy. quote How many nipples do you have. And studiet Trigger out dom themselves this anime looks wonderfully even if the animation isn't over a top all the time it still has a beauty to it and when it goes frantic. It's almost like the characters is losing their shape it adds so much personality and creativity to it. Tallman dwarfs elves all the well fought out races halflings. It is a wonderfully created show with so many logic to it. I absolutely love it. This show is so fun. It is pure joy with some gruesome scenes and violence to it, but that's what we have on our hard and delicious adventure.
olokinprime
06/14/2024, 07:46 AM
A near perfect anime adaptation of a beloved manga. It keeps the story faithful, the panels are basically the storyboards, the original design used as the character guides, and with the flourishes and techniques that anime directors have in their arsenal. The voice acting is on point, and that is very evident in the last two episodes where the characters switch racial appearances and quirks. The voice cast nailed it perfectly each time. I called it "near perfect" because this was just half the story. At least, we can expect another season thanks to the announcement after the last episode aired. This is an anime that can stand onits own merits, even if it does have a great manga story as its source material. Highly recommend, with the advice not to watch this on an empty stomach.
HetakuSoda
06/13/2024, 10:53 PM
The amount of great fantasy anime to come out this year has been unreal. Dungeon Meshi is very comparable to the recent Frieren, and even better in a lot of ways. The worldbuilding is some of the best not only in anime but in anything, and the way its unique and compelling story is told surrounding the central theme of Dungeon Food is nothing short of masterful. The cast is large but no character overstays their welcome; the main ~5 were all loveable and well-developed without taking away from the main attraction which is the dungeon. They got really creative with the problems and solutions,too. Overall, Trigger has saved anime yet again, can't wait for season 2.
KANLen09
06/13/2024, 07:01 AM
Delicious in Dungeon - Food! Glorious Food! Found only in the dungeon that has never tasted this great, both visually and tantalising, with great stories to follow. I always have faith when it comes to anime offerings from studio Trigger, one of the studios that always has an affluent, but ever-so-bombastic and consistent personality to their works. And for the first time in the studio's history since its founding, other than adapting its very first LN in the form of one of my favourite cult-classic works in the form of Fall 2014's LN author Kota Nozomi's Inou-Battle wa Nichijou-kei no Naka de a.k.a When Supernatural BattlesBecame Commonplace, Trigger has once again undertaken that same achievement, only this time in manga form, which represents acclaimed mangaka Ryoko Kui's Dungeon Meshi a.k.a Delicious in Dungeon. This is hands down, one of the best anime of the modern generation, embracing the dungeon-crawling RPG aspect, and also being a fantasy work that doesn't shy away from its contemporaries wholeheartedly. Nothing is being spared in the nook and cranny of the ever-so-illusive depths of dungeons. Dungeons are a staple of any fantasy work, and every and all adventurers will want to try to conquer its many levels in the usual raid of dungeon explorations, and in Dungeon Meshi's world, it is said to have a mysterious Golden Kingdom where it serves as the treasure of an island dungeon. And what started out like a typical normal scene of adventurers trying to slay huge monsters like dragons, with the likelihood of humans being consumed by these creatures should they unsuccessfully attempt to kill them to save their lives, this has to happen to one unlucky party group involving 4 people: a "tallman" human sibling duo, a half-foot/halfing and an half-elf, with the sister of the sibling duo unfortunately getting eaten by a red dragon, and the brother on a race against time before he can only recognize her in an after-digestion skeleton form. What also works against their favour is their survival, which hinges on their lack of resources (espeically food) and their only source lies within the same monsters that they're forced to consume regardless if they like it or not. The aspirations of the human, who has a fascination for monster food, forces his party to convene, that thanks to a dwarf who has made the same dungeon a home whilst, creates a story of not just all about dungeon food, but turning the huge place into another home which also carves stories of friendship and the hijinks of what to expect in a dungeon, like stories of madness and revenge, in a humorous way that doesn't take itself too seriously. This is the story of Dungeon Meshi, and the party that is Laios Touden, Marcille Donato, Chilchuck Tims and Senshi, and their quest to save Laios's younger sister, the talented Falin, while going about tasting all kinds of Delicious in Dungeon meals. To talk about Dungeon Meshi, is to realise mangaka Ryoko Kui's magnificent and masterful writing, something that she has built before the realisation of the series that we get to experience in manga form, now with the anime. Being a fan of fantasy, something that was brought up in her family, Kui has always been fascinated with the genre, and is greatly involved in the medium thanks to video games like Dragon Quest, Ultima, and Fire Emblem, and the one game series that would become the centerstage inspiration for the series: Wizardry. The author herself has also been noted for her style of portrayal of reality and fantasy with her unique point of view, something that can be described as embodying "unnaturalness." Kui's affinity for dragons throughout Dungeon Meshi, can be attributed to her smaller works, one of which is in the form of 2011–2012's fantasy comedy manga Terrarium in Drawer, which is a collection of short stories detailing the lives of multiple unrelated characters, ranging from fantastical to conceptual and everyday uniqueness. Its examination of highly fictional situations with a realistic lens, gives it a sense of authenticity that is plastered all around Dungeon Meshi. That's how you know that fantasy is embossed in every degree of perfection, and Ryoko Kui does not rely on pretence to show the inner workings of such a pedigree of work that's unparalleled. Truly, I've always thought of dungeons as a place of fear, trauma, and torture, and don't get me wrong, Dungeon Meshi has that, but it also knows how to play and poke fun in its adventure aesthetics, combining the comedy with the fantasy to give the entire show a feel as realistic as you can get. Laios and the party truly is one group of unique frenetics, all with their unique personalities that gives the dungeon hike a run for all of its offerings: the tallman swordsman having a talented spellcaster who was consumed by a big creature who dons on monster meals like it's the best thing in the whole world; the halfling locksmith who has an affinity for traps and expresses compassion with the least of his external expressions; the half-elf magician whom like Falin is also rather skilled but cautious in her approaches; and last but not least, the dwarf warrior whose dungeon shelter enables him to create great and balanced meals as a chef, not to mention his expertly vast knowledge that allows him to traverse through the dungeon like it's his second home. It's fun seeing Laios and the gang go through numerous situations, navigate through the dungeon's treacherous nature, and learn about the environment around them, Thanks to Ryoko Kui's impeccable writing, these half-hours of a 2-cour's worth of 24 episodes are truly some of the best time-wasters that anime as a medium can offer to just about anyone. Speaking of episodes, Trigger's mainstay director Yoshihiro Miyajima may not be the most talented of the bunch, but having author Ryoko Kui alongside him being "very involved" in the anime adaptation, definitely shows the high calibre of how faithful she wants her work to be seen on the small screen. And it really shows, from the immaculate detailing of the anime bringing the manga to life to even its action, which, if you've seen even a slither of Trigger's more recent works, is a lot of sakuga done with the blood, sweat, and tears of the talented staff team behind the anime. And honestly, Trigger doesn't really need to go ham on its first manga adaptation, but the studio did it anyways, and I'm all the happier for the people involved in this, like how most passion projects are done. So far, the anime is only halfway through its adaptation of the manga, so it definitely needs another 2-cour, 24 episodes of consistency to deliver on the promise of a complete adaptation. The music stands on its own quite well, too. Composed by famed musician Yasunori Mitsuda alongside Shunsuke Tsuchiya, Dungeon Meshi's OST is about as picturesque (on a sound platter) perfect as a dungeon-crawler RPG fest can be, considering that the former is best well known for video game OSTs given his time at Square (formerly Squaresoft, now Square Enix) composing for series like Chrono Trigger (and its sequel Chrono Cross), Xeno and Shadow Hearts, and even having a hand on the Inazuma Eleven franchise, creating some of the best music. The only negative comment I have for the show, is with its rather opaque OP/ED songs, which, while Bump of Chicken's "Sleep Walking Orchestra" is unironically THE best song of representation of the series, other songs like the EDs of Ryokuoushoku Shakai's "Party!" and Regal Lily's 2nd Cour ED are only visually striking, but the songs are just fine, not to mention sumika's 2nd Cour OP, which IMO was a disappointing departure from the fantasy elements it tried to portray, much less living up to the former's excellent showing both musically and visually. All in all, Dungeon Meshi a.k.a Delicious in Dungeon, is a truly fantastical and unique experience to be had, and I kid you not that it's unsarcastically one of the standouts (so far) of anime when it comes to 2024 that can promise you of a great time, even by Netflix's longer-than-thou episode durations that still feels like you're watching every episode every bit less than its supposed runtime. A daft show with its endearing touch of idiotic humour, who wouldn't want that? Only can you find this in Dungeon Meshi...ah, Delicious in Dungeon.

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