Words Tabatha Golat
Food has always been more than just nourishment for me: it’s a connection to family and culture. So when I saw the trailer for the National Geographic series No Taste Like Home, a show where host Antoni Porowski helps celebrity guests explore their heritage through traditional dishes, I knew I had to watch. Already a fan of Antoni from Queer Eye, I expected charm and good food, but the series surprised me with its emotional depth and thoughtful exploration of ancestry.
No Taste Like Home takes viewers on emotional journeys with celebrity guests such as Florence Pugh, Awkwafina, and James Marsden as they reconnect with their heritage through food. Across six heartfelt episodes, guests explore ancestral recipes and cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. I found myself tearing up multiple times, right along with them. The tracing of family roots through specific regional dishes was fascinating, showing how food can carry powerful and enduring stories. It was a wonderful pairing of history and cuisine that felt refreshingly new.
Episode two, Awkwafina’s Korean Homecoming, was especially moving. Watching her reconnect with her mother’s homeland and discover a family she’s never known was beautiful. The series is educational without feeling heavy, offering a fresh perspective on the cultural significance of food. It sparked reflection on my own family recipes and made me wonder if the dishes I make today trace back to ancestors I’ve never known. The blend of personal connection and historical depth is what makes the show so compelling.
Antoni shines as host – his passion for food and curiosity about heritage bring warmth and authenticity to the series. He balances informative storytelling with genuine connection, carrying the show with ease. His French Canadian roots were on display while in Senegal, adding a personal layer to the journey. The production quality is impressive too, with captivating locations, powerful editing, and delicious-looking dishes that make you want to try something new.
No Taste Like Home is uplifting and warm, appealing to food lovers, history buffs and casual viewers alike. Its emotional yet light tone makes it easy to watch, with each episode standing alone and running under an hour. It’s the kind of show you can enjoy at your own pace while still learning something meaningful. View it on Disney+.
For those who appreciate a blend of food, culture and heartfelt stories, here are five similar shows and films to enjoy:
1) Tucci in Italy, Amazon Prime
2) Chef’s Table, Netflix
3) Long Way Up, Apple TV
4) The Reluctant Traveller, Apple TV
5) The Final Table, Netflix
