After watching a few rom-coms with nearly perfect leads, this short Japanese drama about a romance unfolding in a high-end chocolate shop works as a refreshing palate cleanser. Both of the main characters are far from perfect – both struggle with mental health issues: The female Anonymous Chocolatier (played by Korean actress Han Hyo Joo) has sociophobia and is not able to make eye contact with people. The male CEO who takes over the shop (played by Oguri Shun) cannot stand to touch somebody or to be touched, which leads to difficult situations in the business world.

The leads are awkward and cute, the story of them bonding while trying to save the chocolate shop moves along nicely (each episode centers on a specific type of chocolate treat) and the chocolate creations look amazing (better not watch on an empty stomach). That the female lead plays a Korean character adds some nice touches, e.g., when she curses the CEO in Korean and he’s just baffled by her or when he learns about the Korean concept of “sarang.” We even have the K-drama trope of the white truck of doom make an appearance.

Two aspects could have been improved: The plot detour of the female lead hunting for chocolate in a foreign country in episode 7 was realized in a badly cliched way. And while we get a Happy Ending, the very last scene is baffling and seems pointless. But these are minor points. So, if you’re looking for a gentle and heartwarming drama, this one is a great choice. Sweet and comforting like … a piece of chocolate :).

Netflix. Written by Kim Ji Hyun and Okada Yoshikazu.