1. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (Japan, 2009)
It’s impossible to watch the story of 85-year-old Jiro Ono and not feel inspired. Widely considered the world’s greatest sushi chef, Ono’s dedication to his craft is only paralleled by his son, Yoshikazu. The documentary follows the history of Sukiyabashi, Ono’s tiny 10 seat three-Michelin star restaurant in a Toyko subway station.

2. Chef’s Table, Netflix (2015)
While not technically movies, this series of documentaries lets you into the kitchens, and the minds, of the world’s top chefs. It’s about more than their cuisines; it’s their background, ideals, vision and personalities. Who knew sustainability advocate Dan Barber has a temper? Or that Massimo Bottura considered closing his famous Modena restaurant? Listen out for delicious.’ own Matt Preston and his critic’s commentary.

3. Haute Cuisine (France, 2009)
Based on the real life of Daniele Mazet-Delpeuch, the first female to ever cook in Eylsee Palace for French president Francois Daniele, the film showcases both her fiery spirit and expert grasp of classic French cuisine. She bitterly fights with both the president’s draconian nutritionist (sacre le bleu!) and the all-male, testosterone-driven male kitchen team, before leaving the palace for an even more interesting post.

4. Ratatouille (America, 2007)
Yes, it’s about a talking rat that wants to cook, but don’t underestimate this super cute animations food cred. In the lead up to production, director Brad Bird interned at Thomas Keller’s French Laundry to help create the film’s signature dishes. It’s the kitchen versus Ego, the food critic, as Remy, our ratty hero, teams up with a bumbling young cook.

5. Tampopo (Japan, 1985)
Long before the ramen craze hit Australia, there was Tampopo, a series of interwoven stories focusing on the quest to create the world’s greatest ramen.
“It’s like a bento box,” says the trailer, with a sneak peek into the world of Japan’s culinary obsessions, in and outside of the dining room.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_KctoG0bAE

6. Chef (2014)
A frustrated top chef, worn down by an overbearing restaurant owner and slayed by a food critic, turns in his crisp whites to hit the road in a food truck. It’s a must-watch for the modern foodie, with plenty of on-the-pulse industry commentary. Our tip? Make sure you find your nearest Cuban sandwich slinger before you watch this, because killer cravings will ensue.

7. Sideways (2004)
Any vino buff worth their weight in vermentino will instantly recognize the line “I’m not drinking any ****ing merlot!”. Sales of the poor, misunderstood varietal plummeted in the USA after Paul Giamatti uttered the fateful line. The film casts a shadow on wine wankery, but is plenty of fun for anyone that appreciates a good pinot.

8. Julie and Julia (2009)
One of the most polarizing food films, this homage to the great Julia Child, played by her highness Meryl Streep. It’s a lightweight as far as the story line goes, but most foodies will get a kick out of watching Julie, played by Amy Adams, try to recreate her best recipes.

9. Waitress (America, 2007)
Ever take your frustrations out on a ball of dough? Keri Russell hears you. She plays Jenna, a sweet southern bell with a horrible husband, who crafts delectable pies out of bad situations. Our favourite line? ‘’I Can’t Have No Affair Because It’s Wrong and I Don’t Want Earl to Kill Me pie… vanilla custard with banana. Hold the banana.”

10. The Lunchbox (India, 2013)
This sweet Indian love story revolves around a lonely housewife’s effort to catch her husband’s attention with a new recipe. The lunchbox goes astray, along with a little note tucked inside, sparking a pen-pal relationship that turns into a growing hunger.