tvN’s new Saturday-Sunday drama ″The Tyrant’s Chef,″ featuring Im Yoon-ah, is capturing audience interest. This survival fantasy romantic comedy follows a chef who travels back in time and encounters a tyrannical king known for his exceptional taste.

In episode 2, Im Yoon-ah portrays Yeon Ji-young, who is unexpectedly tasked by Master Chae Hong-sa to prepare a meal for a guest. She rises to the challenge, asserting that if she can satisfy the guest, everyone else will be freed. Yeon Ji-young adeptly navigates unfamiliar cooking tools and ingredients, confidently taking charge of the kitchen.

She carefully considers the guest’s preferences and background, crafting a modern sous-vide beef dish that impresses the tyrant, Lee Heon, played by Lee Chae-min. Yeon Ji-young’s skilled movements and assured presentation heighten the drama’s intensity.

The episode concludes with a gripping scene where Lee Heon, clutching the Mangunrok—a vital clue for time travel—is forcibly taken to the palace. This cliffhanger hints at the start of a dangerous adventure, sparking viewers’ curiosity.

Im Yoon-ah effectively builds tension with her subtle and composed expressions throughout the intricate cooking scenes. Her clever dialogue and agile movements further immerse the audience in the drama.

Episode 2 of ″The Tyrant’s Chef″ recorded a nationwide viewership rating of 6.6%, with 6.5% in the Seoul metropolitan area and a peak of 8.7%, indicating significant growth. These ratings, sourced from Nielsen Korea, highlight the drama’s appeal, showcasing Im Yoon-ah’s diverse talents and promising continued viewer engagement.