I picked up Yes, Chef by Waitlyn Andrews expecting a lighthearted romantic comedy set in the culinary world, and it delivered exactly that—and then some. The story follows Claire Richards, a talented chef who moves to Paris to escape her past and carve out her own path in the culinary world. When the renowned James Sullivan becomes the new head chef at her restaurant, Teaks, sparks fly in the kitchen, and not just from the stove.

The chemistry between Claire and James is palpable, and their slow-burn romance kept me hooked from start to finish. What I appreciated most was the depth of their characters. Claire is strong, independent, and passionate about her craft, while James is supportive, patient, and genuinely cares about her growth. Their relationship evolves naturally, without unnecessary drama or miscommunication, which was a refreshing change.

The setting of Paris adds an extra layer of charm to the story. Andrews does a fantastic job of capturing the essence of the city—the sights, sounds, and, of course, the food. Each chapter begins with a cooking tip or definition, seamlessly woven into the narrative, adding authenticity and depth to the culinary backdrop.

The pacing was spot-on, with just the right balance of tension and tenderness. The supporting characters, especially the restaurant staff, added warmth and humor to the story, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

This was a very sweet closed door romance. I do prefer my romances a bit more open but this one was sweet. I loved the cooking element and with my obsessed with the Bear… Yes, Chef. Can’ we talk about the third act breakup. Oh right, there wasn’t one 🙌🏼 thank you for that!

A really sweet and fun story. Wasn't totally in love but thought the plot and story was very thought out and kept me engaged.

Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book is a great foodie book with learning about different ways to cook etc. Its also a great travel book if you want to read about what happens in a French restaurant acquiring a Michelin Star etc. I enjoyed the main character's journey of overcoming trauma and making herself independent away from her verbal abusive mother. However. I wished that there was a male perspective in the writing style due to the need of more investment in the relationship in my opinion. Overall, I would recommend this book if you needed a new travel foodie book. 4 out of 5 stars.

I really liked this book! It totally gave me the best vibes and I love that show. I always enjoy reading about professions that I could never do lol. The enemies to lovers aspect was also well written. Being a chef is such a high pressure high stakes job I just picked Gordon Ramsey screaming off the top of his head. Overall it was a great read!

I was living out my 'The Bear' fantasy. This book was really fun, it had an engaging narrative and authentic character development. I loved this book! It is charming, realistic, and the love interests spend time talking to each other and developing an actual relationship!

Realistically I would give this book about 3.5-4 stars.

I loved the concept of them working in a restaurant, this was my first time reading a book like that. it makes me want to pick up cooking as a hobby.

It was a super quick and easy, fun read. I loved how each chapter started with descriptions of certain foods. Plus being set in Paris is so fun!

However, I didn't't like the way the relationship between the characters came to be. They didn't even kiss till I was over 70 percent in, which I don't mind because I love a slowburn. However, it feels like after the kiss the relationship moved so extremely fast. I would've preferred that they kiss sooner in the book and let the relationship have time to grow

This was cute, I just pictured the guy like Gordon Ramsey the whole time tbh jfjfjjfjf.. yeah cute, funny, made me wanna be a chef ofc

In the age of shows like the Bear, a romance about chefs with a big food focus is a sure hit. I loved the pre is but I’m not sure there was enough tension between the main characters for me.

Enemies to lovers is supposed to give angst, give frustration, etc. But this one just... didn't. James was way critical of Claire in comparison to the rest of his peers, but that just felt.. like he was just being a jerk. I also didn't really like the misrepresentation of OCD in the story. OCD is more than just being clean and particular... it's a psychological warfare of sorts and that felt slighted in the story. What he experienced was more of a perfectionist than anything else, but what do I know?! I REALLY enjoyed the setting, though, and thought the author did a really good job exploring that picture for us as readers. It really made you want to go to Paris and experience the sights, smells, and sounds. As for the storyline, though, that was about the most enjoyment for me... I really wanted to like it, but I just couldn't get past certain misrepresentations and happenings in the plot. Thanks for the opportunity!

If you love Cinnamon-roll MMC then, you'll love Chef (or James) in this adorably sweet food centered romance novel. The fact that each chapter heading has some sort of cooking relating tip is phenomenal! I love the dynamic between James and Claire, he is so patient and sweet with her! It kind of vaguely gives me "NO Reservations" vibes. It as so refreshing to step away from the typical miscommunication or generally toxic relationships seen in most romance novel nowadays and instead step into this slow burn romance between two people who value one another. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC opportunity, I highly recommend this one!

Yes Chef by Waitlyn Andrews

Never even ate at a Michelin Star but got to know the process through this book!! There is so much that a chef has to undergo in order to achieve Michelin star!!

📚 Book talks about a chef, who moves to Paris to achieve her dream of becoming a Michelin star. But, she is just starting her career, so needs guidance and everything is going fine and bam!! There comes male lead who comes from a Michelin star restaurant and becomes her boss.
📚 Story intricately highlights a beautiful routine of a chef. Starting from how they work on a menu, collect vegetables, oil and grains by making contacts to get organic stuff from farm itself to how they work hard hours till late night and how they get so little time for themselves.
📚 The plot flows smoothly covering character's present as well as past and relating those things with various recipes.
📚 It highlights the urge of becoming something even when your family is successful. Also focuses on trust issues and the work as well as time that a relationship demands.
📚 Paris food culture is superbly highlighted with various recipes and their popular desserts.
📚 The story looks monotonous at some points but then they are covered up by an amazing twist.

Overall, if you are looking for something different with debutant author then this is for you!!

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

Clare Richards has left Napa Valley for Paris, France for many reasons. The main one - she is chasing the elusive Michelin star. She wants to be part of a team that wins this coveted prize. The other things she is escaping from in Napa Valley are just as important.

This novel is a slow (but in a good way!!), winding novel that provides the background as the current story progresses. It is a beautifully written story about second chances and living your best life. I look forward to more books by this author.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this novel.
Unfortunately I didn't finish this book because after reading the first chapters I feel like this book wasn't really for me so my rating is the average for this book expressed here on netgalley because I also feel like I didn't really give it a chance.

Yes, Chef is a delightful story with a lot of heart! The storyline draws you in, especially with its vibrant characters and engaging dialogue. The pacing flows well, and each scene feels thoughtfully crafted, which keeps the reader's attention. The characters are relatable, and their interactions feel natural. It’s easy to connect with their emotions and motivations, making the story more immersive. The main character’s journey is particularly compelling, as they grow personally and professionally. One area that could add depth to the story is expanding on the descriptions of settings, which would bring out the atmosphere of the culinary world even more. A bit more detail about the food and cooking process would enhance the sensory experience for readers. Overall, Yes, Chef is a strong piece with a charming plot and memorable characters. With a bit more descriptive detail, it has the potential to be even more captivating!

In this food-focused romcom, Andrews made it easy for me to become part of the team as they focused on their goal of obtaining a Michelin star. I was instantly wrapped up in the intricate relationships that exist within the restaurant and privy to the reality of working behind the scenes in the service industry.
I discovered the stress of shopping daily for the menu of the day and the camaraderie that blossomed between the staff and the suppliers. I learned new terms and my inner foodie was excited. I liked the experience of juggling living abroad, with parental expectations, working towards a career goal and indulging in romance. The chapter titles were a nice touch and kept me focused with each chapter.
This closed-door culinary fiction was the perfect distraction this week. I'd eagerly read another of this author's books.

The CUTEST book. I have such a soft spot for books about cooking and this one did NOT disappoint. I already went looking for the author’s past works to get my fix

This was such a fun read. I love cooking shows and things based around a kitchen. This was such an enjoyable story and it was easy to get swept away in it.

easy to read, enjoyable, cute alwayssss into a book involving food especially when its linked to a good "he's not into you"(/"he so is") trope

Overall, this book is a delightful read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you cheering for the characters as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, it’s a story that will resonate long after the last page is turned. If you're looking for a blend of laughter, tears, and genuine connection, this romance is sure to satisfy!