Happy Ever After(1999)

Happy Ever After is a 1999 Hong Kong period drama set during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor in China's Qing dynasty. The TVB production follows a poor chef and his best friend as they struggle to earn a place serving the emperor, eventually winning his friendship and favour. The series weaves together their ambitions with detailed explorations of Chinese imperial cuisine, particularly the legendary Manchu Han Imperial Feast. With an ensemble cast and sweeping production values, Happy Ever After became TVB's third highest-rated drama of 1999, peaking at 40 points. The series earned critical acclaim for its blend of historical drama and culinary storytelling, proving popular enough to warrant a rebroadcast in 2007.