Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky culinary comic mixes food, science, fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
GOOD EATS is a fun, quirky series that combines science, comedy, and lots of great food. The show centers on culinary expert/author Alton Brown, who uses his unique brand of wit and knowledge to both teach and inspire. He breaks the history, culture, and science associated with ingredients, cooking tools, and dishes into understandable technical terms while preparing everything from French crepes to roasted artichokes. In between cooking segments, Brown exhibits his comedic side in hokey-but-funny sketches that are intended to highlight some of the most important insights about the foods he's preparing.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which Brown writes and produces, is a great example of how to successfully educate people about food preparation using both wisdom and humor. While some of the offbeat banter occasionally includes some very subtle sexual innuendo (don't worry -- it will go over young viewers' head) and some mild references to violence, overall, the show's amusing but practical approach to the culinary arts will inspire cooks of all ages. Best of all, Brown's energy and passion for cooking have the potential to encourage non-cooks to venture into their kitchens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how television can promote science and learning. Can TV shows geared toward educating people be informative while also being interesting and fun? What shows can you think of that fit that description? Families can also talk about cooking. What are your family's favorite meals? Kids: Have you ever tried cooking? Would you like to? What would you like to make?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 7, 1999
- Cast : Alton Brown
- Networks : Cooking Channel , Food Network
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Cooking , STEM
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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