Meng Qi Shi Shen: Zai Jie Liangyuan [Season 1 Episode 1 to 12]

A Delicious Journey Through Time: Review of Meng Qi Shi Shen: Zai Jie Liangyuan (Season 1, Episodes 1-12)

If you’re a fan of food, time travel, and a dash of comedy, Meng Qi Shi Shen: Zai Jie Liangyuan (also known as Cinderella Chef) is a must-watch. This 2018 Chinese donghua, produced by Wawayu Animation and adapted from the novel by Ziyi 281, serves up a unique blend of culinary adventure and historical fantasy. The story follows Ye Jiayao, a modern-day celebrity chef who accidentally time-travels to Imperial China, landing in the body of a seemingly useless girl. Armed with her cooking skills, she navigates this new world with humor, wit, and a lot of delicious dishes.

The Premise: A Recipe for Fun

The first episode sets the stage perfectly. Ye Jiayao’s passion for traditional Chinese cuisine is evident, and her experimental cooking mishap—which sends her back in time—is both hilarious and unexpected. The show wastes no time diving into the fish-out-of-water scenario, as Jiayao quickly realizes she’s stuck in a world where her culinary expertise is her only lifeline.

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums have praised the show’s lighthearted tone and the way it balances comedy with moments of genuine tension. One user noted, “It’s like Food Wars! meets The Story of Yanxi Palace—but with way more dumplings.” The comparison isn’t far off; the show’s blend of food-centric storytelling and historical drama makes it stand out in the crowded anime landscape.

Characters: More Than Just Flavor

Jiayao is a refreshing protagonist—smart, resourceful, and unapologetically passionate about food. Her modern perspective clashes hilariously with the rigid traditions of Imperial China, leading to some of the show’s best moments. For example, her attempts to introduce “fusion cuisine” to baffled nobles had fans in stitches.

The supporting cast is equally charming. From the stoic but secretly food-obsessed bodyguard to the scheming noblewomen who underestimate Jiayao, each character adds depth to the story. A Reddit user pointed out, “The villains are just the right amount of petty—you love to hate them, but they’re not so evil that it ruins the fun.”

The Food: A Feast for the Eyes

Let’s be real—the real star of the show is the food. The animation team clearly put effort into making every dish look mouthwatering, from steaming bowls of noodles to intricately decorated pastries. Fans have joked that watching this show on an empty stomach is a dangerous game. One Crunchyroll viewer commented, “I’ve never wanted to time-travel just for the food until now.”

The culinary battles, where Jiayao faces off against rival chefs, are a highlight. These scenes are packed with tension and creativity, as Jiayao uses her modern knowledge to outsmart her opponents. It’s like Iron Chef meets Back to the Future.

Themes: More Than Just Cooking

Beneath the humor and food porn, Meng Qi Shi Shen explores themes of identity, perseverance, and the power of passion. Jiayao’s journey isn’t just about surviving in a new world—it’s about proving that her skills and ideas have value, even when others dismiss her.

A MyAnimeList reviewer summed it up well: “It’s a show about finding your place in the world, one dish at a time.” The way Jiayao bridges the gap between her modern sensibilities and ancient traditions resonates with viewers, especially younger audiences navigating their own paths.

Fan Reactions: Love at First Bite

The show has garnered a dedicated fanbase, with many praising its unique premise and binge-worthy pacing. Some fans have even tried recreating the dishes featured in the show, sharing their attempts on social media. A Twitter user posted, “Failed at making the dragon beard candy, but at least I tried. 10/10 would burn my kitchen again for this show.”

Of course, no show is perfect. A few critics have pointed out that the animation quality can be inconsistent, and some of the humor relies heavily on slapstick. But for most viewers, the charm of the characters and the creativity of the story more than make up for these flaws.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Foodies and Fantasy Fans

Meng Qi Shi Shen: Zai Jie Liangyuan is a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and culinary artistry. Whether you’re here for the food, the time-travel shenanigans, or just a feel-good story, this show delivers. As one fan put it, “It’s like comfort food in anime form—warm, satisfying, and impossible to resist.”

So grab a snack (trust me, you’ll need one), settle in, and let Ye Jiayao take you on a delicious adventure through time. You won’t regret it.

Rating: 8.5/10
Best enjoyed with: A bowl of noodles and an open mind.