Celebrity Chef Carême: The First Sexy Kitchen God of Napoleonic Era

Oui, chef! ‘Carême’ introduces world’s first (sexy) celebrity chef, a Napoleonic-era kitchen god

Antonin Carême, a culinary genius, may have been dead since the 1830s, but his legacy lives on in the new Apple TV+ drama series, “Carême.” This historical show sheds light on the life of a legendary French chef who rose from humble beginnings to cook for the likes of Napoleon and other influential figures of his time, becoming the very first celebrity chef.

Imagine a “Top Chef”-style cooking competition, set in post-revolutionary Paris, where the kitchen is not only a place for creating culinary masterpieces but also a hub of political intrigue. Carême, portrayed by Benjamin Voisin, exudes a Mick Jagger-like charm, with a scruffy head of hair and a bad-boy swagger that captivates viewers from the start.

In the first season, we witness Carême’s journey to culinary excellence, from crafting intricate pastries to navigating the treacherous world of politics as a spy working for the cunning diplomat Talleyrand. The series does not shy away from the sensual side of Carême’s life, blending themes of food, sex, and politics seamlessly.

Voisin dedicated himself to mastering the art of French cuisine for his role, spending two months in the kitchen to learn the customs and techniques of the time. Alongside him, Alice Da Luz, who plays the talented sous-chef Agathe, trained rigorously to perfect the choreography of a bustling kitchen and enhance her culinary skills.

As viewers immerse themselves in the world of “Carême,” they are transported back to post-revolutionary France, where they can witness the birth of modern French culinary art and the rise of the world’s first celebrity chef. Through meticulous attention to historical detail and captivating storytelling, this series is sure to satisfy both food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.