Off the Menu

Off the Menu is a heartwarming and charming romantic comedy that premiered in 2018. It stars the talented trio of Dania Ramirez, Santino Fontana, and Jen Lilley. Directed by Jay Silverman, the film skillfully weaves together elements of romance, comedy and a bit of magical realism, grounding them in the context of a small, vibrant Texan town famed for its unique, mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine. The film is a delightful exploration of food, love, and culture, proving that nothing brings people together like good food and shared experiences.

Dania Ramirez, well known for her roles in Devious Maids and Heroes, takes a fiery and passionate turn as Javiera Torres, a gifted and creative chef who runs a small, family-owned restaurant tucked away within the secluded charms of this small town. Her character effortlessly lends the film a blend of bold intensity and depth, caught in a charming yet constant struggle to keep the restaurant afloat while safeguarding the secret recipes passed down through generations that set them apart.

Santino Fontana, recognized for his performances in Frozen and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, plays Joel Flanagan, the heir to a fast-food chain out of control. He is sent on an assignment to discover the next big taco recipe for his family's struggling fast-food chain. But, Joel clashes with his materialistic, corporate lifestyle, and his character is in a constant search for an identity of his own. As the film progresses, Joel embarks on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation of authentic cuisine – a direct contrast to the industrial, mass-produced food he is used to.

While the film pivots on these two characters' chemistry, Jen Lilley's character adds another layer to the narrative with her role as Joel's sibling who's steeped deep into the corporate world and lacks empathy for the sanctity of traditional food culture.

Off the Menu nails the delicate balance between romance and comedy. The chemistry between Ramirez and Fontana is palpable, and the humor is found within quiet moments of cultural clash and unexpected food experiments. There's also warmth in the representation of familial ties, with emphasis on preserving tradition and legacy, particularly when it pertains to food. Silverman gives food a character of its own, with luscious visuals and sumptuous detailing that makes it not just a sustenance but an expression of love, identity, and heritage.

As the story unfolds, Joel encounters Javiera and her secret recipe, sparking off not just a clash of cultures, but also a tug of war between authenticity and commercialization. Their budding romance is beautifully interwoven with their individual struggles. Javiera, with her steadfast determination to preserve her culinary heritage and Joel, with his desperate need to salvage his family's business.

The film is also shot beautifully, capturing the essence of the locale with its bright, picturesque cinematography. The splendor of the landscape becomes a silent character in the film, fashioning a beautiful backdrop against which the story unfurls.

Off the Menu offers not just romance and comedy but a valuable lesson in respect for one’s heritage and the significance of authenticity. It is a movie that combines romance with foodie culture, resulting in a genuinely entertaining experience that leaves audiences with a good feeling, in addition to a sudden craving for tacos. All in all, it's an enchanting film about family, culinary traditions, and finding love and oneself in the most unexpected places.