Netflix is bringing food content to its platform through partnerships with major publishers, including Eater, Bon Appétit, Epicurious, and Delish. The streaming giant announced deals with dozens of digital publishers to expand its video library.
Eater's shows will stream on Netflix, including popular series like Mise en Place, which explores restaurant kitchens and cooking techniques, and Smoke Point, the outlet's barbecue-focused program. These existing video franchises gain distribution to Netflix's 270 million subscribers worldwide.
The deal reflects Netflix's strategy to license established digital content rather than produce everything in-house. Food media companies gain exposure to a massive audience that already subscribes to the platform. Eater, owned by Vox Media, has built substantial video reach through YouTube and its website since launching the series format years ago.
Food content performs well on streaming platforms. Viewers engage with cooking shows, restaurant documentaries, and chef profiles at high rates. Netflix previously invested heavily in food documentaries like Chef's Table and Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat. Licensed content from established publishers fills gaps without requiring original production budgets.
The partnership signals Netflix's acceptance that it cannot dominate every content category alone. Publishers like Eater bring editorial credibility and established audiences. Viewers familiar with Eater's voice and hosts will find the content in a familiar place.
For Eater and similar publishers, Netflix distribution opens new revenue streams and reaches audiences beyond food enthusiasts who actively visit their websites or subscribe to their YouTube channels. The arrangement benefits both sides. Netflix adds proven content. Publishers gain significant distribution without losing ownership of their intellectual property.
This licensing model extends beyond food. Netflix announced similar partnerships with lifestyle, entertainment, and news publishers. The approach transforms Netflix from pure producer to aggregator, curating content from across digital media while maintaining its subscription service advantage.