SPOILER ALERT!

“Replacing” is about making significant milestone decisions and standing by them, resisting the fear of change…

Currently immersed in the intriguing world of “Replacing Chef Chico,” my attention was piqued by the ongoing chatter surrounding this Filipino Netflix series.

With the talented Alessandra de Rossi at the forefront, playing the role of sous-chef Ella, my anticipation to dive into the series heightened.

To my delight, I must say that I was not disappointed.

The first three episodes introduce a formidable cast, including the seasoned Piolo Pascual as a strict yet compassionate consultant Raymond and Sam Milby as the fiery chef Chico.

The initial storyline orbits around the quest for chef Chico’s replacement, triggered by an unfortunate accident that leaves him in a coma.

The series, true to its title, is packed with highly engaging narratives, urging viewers to keep a tissue handy for the emotional moments that might bring a tear to your eye.

The partnership between De Rossi and Pascual, absent this time without Empoy Marquez, reminds me of the frequent collaborations between Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, and Helena Bonham Carter.

It’s noteworthy that in Pascual-produced or financed independent films, De Rossi and Marquez often play significant roles – an observation from someone who sporadically writes film reviews.

“Replacing Chef Chico” revolves around the revered all-Filipino restaurant, Hain, teetering on the brink of closure after years of dedicated service.

The opening episode artfully presents Ella, a sous-chef deeply committed to rescuing the struggling restaurant amidst the challenges posed by the recent pandemic.

The series explores the dynamic between the tempestuous head chef Chico and the composed, loyal Ella, hinting at a potential romantic connection.

But, as you would expect from any Netflix series, the story doesn’t merely revolve around the duo or trio. In the second episode, we discover chef Chico falls into a coma.

Each episode digs into the lives of Hain’s loyal patrons. The first episode narrates the freeing story of Tessa Monteagudo, a cancer-stricken strong woman who decides to break free and savor life after learning she has only three months to live.

And yes, the series features cigarette smoking scenes—no vapes! Nearly all characters smoke, particularly Ella and her sidekick, the receptionist Wena.

In episode 5, we learn that Wena gave birth to a child at 16 and left the baby with the dad.

Episode 2 introduces the new consultant, Raymond, adding more drama just when the need arises to find Chico’s replacement. Surprisingly, it turns out to be Ella, despite the objections of an old, secretly gay chef who has been with the restaurant longer than anyone else on staff.

In true Netflix fashion, the narrative expands to encompass the lives of Hain’s steadfast patrons, weaving together intricate character backgrounds and interconnected storylines.

Viewers are treated to unique cultural nuances, such as warm greetings delivered in pure Filipino language, lending a distinctive touch to the series.

“Replacing Chef Chico” proves to be captivating and a must-watch for both Filipino and foreign audiences.

For Filipino viewers, the exploration of ‘loving one’s own cuisine and culture’ is particularly fascinating. The use of pure Filipino language to greet guests adds a cultural flair. The staff addressing lady guests as “binibini” instead of “Miss” and married women as “ginang” instead of “Mrs” is a subtle yet noteworthy cultural touch.

The incorporation of the Filipino term “Hain,” signifying “the act of serving food,” resonates deeply with Filipino viewers. Undoubtedly, christening a culturally-friendly Filipino restaurant with the name “Hain” reflects ingenuity and sparks nostalgia among its loyal patrons.

Each episode not only reveals the intriguing lives of Hain’s devout guests—such as an unusually critical VIP suffering from dementia in episode 2 and rival mistresses who become friends in episode 3—but also addresses societal issues like the exploitation of suppliers by unscrupulous middlemen.

The series holds promise, and with three more episodes on my watchlist, I can confidently say that I will thoroughly enjoy them.

“Replacing” is about making significant milestone decisions and standing by them, resisting the fear of change.

Much like Chef Ella’s passionate efforts to perfect her specialty Lumpia to meet Raymond’s discerning gourmet taste, I can assure you, having experienced it myself, that as you progress through the series, it only becomes more and more compelling.

While there might be more to discover, I trust that you, as the viewer, can form your own impression of this series that is undoubtedly worth watching.