If you haven’t yet explored Carême on Apple TV+, this historical drama is a hidden gem worth watching. Set a few years after the French Revolution, the series offers a rare and gripping perspective—told entirely through the eyes of a cook navigating a world still reeling from chaos and political unrest. What sets Carême apart is its grounded focus on class, survival, and ambition, blending political intrigue with culinary artistry.
The series stars Benjamin Voisin as Marie-Antoine Carême, a young pastry chef who would go on to become one of the most famous chefs in history. Rather than starting with his legendary success, the show begins with his humble roots in a struggling bakery, where he tries to build a life while protecting his stepfather, Martin, played by Guillaume Gouix.
When Martin is falsely accused and imprisoned, Carême stops at nothing to secure his release. Tragically, his stepfather is murdered—a turning point that propels Carême deeper into a dangerous world of political corruption, shifting alliances, and military power. The trauma of this event awakens in him a desire for justice and survival at all costs.
The show does an excellent job portraying the harsh realities of post-revolutionary France: mass hunger, fear, and the loss of trust in any institution. Carême, a baker by trade, finds himself caught between his passion for food and the growing demands of political players who see his talents as tools for manipulation and control.
Along the way, viewers witness Carême’s emotional evolution—from a headstrong, somewhat naïve young man to someone hardened by experience and wiser about the cost of survival. His relationships are complex and messy, particularly with Henriette, played by Lyna Khoudri, who challenges his values and ambitions.
Eventually, Carême is drafted into Napoleon’s army, leading to a cliffhanger that hints at a broader scope for season two. The war looms large, and the personal story of a cook becomes interwoven with the fate of a nation.
One of the show’s strongest elements is its atmosphere. From dimly lit kitchens to bustling Parisian streets, the cinematography brings 19th-century France to life. You feel the desperation in every loaf of bread and the tension in every whispered conversation.
Final Thoughts
Carême is more than a period piece; it’s a character-driven political drama that explores themes of identity, class, resilience, and transformation. It’s a story about a young man who didn’t ask to be a hero but is thrust into the spotlight by circumstances beyond his control.
If you enjoy historical dramas like The Crown, Versailles, or Les Misérables, this show will resonate deeply. With strong performances, sharp writing, and meaningful commentary on survival and ambition, Carême deserves a spot on your watchlist.
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10
📺 Streaming on: Apple TV+
📌 Recommended for: Fans of historical drama, character-driven stories, and anyone curious about the roots of modern haute cuisine.
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