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Being a foodie is more than just enjoying food; it’s being interested in food and food fads as a hobby. What does this mean for romances? Food-centric romances are evergreen in popularity because food is such an integral part of socializing. Reading foodie romance is like enjoying a meal with a friend, almost like a reading version of a mukbang. Food is emotional and cultural. Food can represent home and family. Food is a way we can relate to others. When characters fall in love over food, the sensorial language pulls the reader in—we can almost smell the fresh bread, taste the rich chocolate, and even crave the same food being described! Reading foodie romance is a great excuse to order takeout or try a new recipe.
From fast-paced cooking competitions to struggling hometown bakeries and delicious details of simmering spices and decadent desserts, there are more than enough foodie romances to draw in every kind of reader. Like building a good recipe, a good foodie romance invites the reader to appreciate all the ingredients. The superstar chef love interest. The hot new restaurant setting. The chaotic cast of supporting characters that add life to a story. The playful kitchen banter. Add a little bit of tension, a pinch of pining, stir, and romance is served!
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Dr. Trisha Raje is overwhelmed by her influential family’s meddling. When Trisha finally has a chance to prove herself, she is confronted by Chef DJ Caine. While DJ is attempting to build up his own career as a private chef, he is also struggling with caring for a sick family member, and only Trisha can help. Packed with charming characters and mouth-watering food descriptions, this loose Austen retelling is the first in a delightful series.
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
Years after breaking up, Kit and Theo find themselves booked on the same European food and wine tour. Trapped on a tour bus together for three weeks, they decide to keep the peace by setting a unique wager. This rom-com is a bustling exploration of food, wine, lush scenery, and sexual encounters.
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Fake It Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley
After turning down a proposal on national television, Jada Townsend-Matthews is back in her hometown to do some healing and avoid the tabloids. She finds a job working at a struggling cupcake bakery owned by superstar football player Donavan Dell. When someone mistakes Jada and Donavan for being a couple, they decide to take advantage of the gaff. Faking a relationship to boost Jada’s image and help the bakery should be easy, right? Sweet as sugar with a side of frosting, this novel is perfect for anyone with a major sweet tooth.
Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
As the first openly nonbinary contestant on Chef’s Special, London has a lot to prove to the audience and their family. Dahlia, another contestant, is recently divorced and ready to reinvent herself as a shining star on the show. London can’t help but be drawn to Dahlia’s playful energy. Their chemistry is undeniable on-screen and off, but Dahlia and London are focused on winning. As London and Dahlia get closer to each other, pressure starts to weigh down their confidence. Turn up the heat with this competition romance.
That Prince is Mine by Jacyi Lee
Emma Yoon’s business as a Korean Court culinary instructor relies on her godmother’s matchmaking skills to keep the customers coming. When another matchmaker meddles with Emma and her business, Emma must find her perfect-on-paper match to save both her and her godmother’s business. Despite her reluctance, Emma soon meets Mitch Aubert, a professor at USC with a secret that could change everything. Get your shopping cart ready because this book might inspire you to do some Korean cooking of your own!
Hungry for more romances for foodies? Try these 10 Delicious Books About Food With A Side of Romance or 12 Culinary Romances That Make You Hungry for More.
