Yutaka and Minoru have gone from friends to lovers and made a loving home for themselves and Tane-kun. As their relationship grows, so do their joys and worries, but one thing stays the same: they always have warm meals to share around the table. See how their little family shares love and delicious food in this sequel to Our Dining Table!
Ahhhhh I love these two so so much!! I love that their story is continuing and seeing both Minoru and Yutaka’s development is melting my heart!! I can’t wait for the next volume to this, so wholesome and absolutely sweet!!
didn't read the original manga... but I got the idea. a mostly gentle...slow coming of age love story..with food as a kind of bringing together of the characters.
this is the kind of story that makes you so happy to be alive at a time when you are able to read it. mita ori's genius needs to be studied in a lab. I am so happy and I love my life because my life coincides with the existence of Our Dining Table. PERIOD!
The way I love this story and characters... oof. Once upon a time I read Our Dining Table, the only volume available. It literally became one of my favorite manga ever and I have since reread it a lot of times. When I found out there was a sequel coming out I NEARLY LOST IT??? My favorites coming back? OH I'm there definitely ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪
Finally (!!) I've read the volume and oh my god I feel like I love it even more than the first one. There's so much content and story in this - I felt like I came to know these characters so much more. I felt that the passing of time was so well written and it was like seeing my close friends grow up *sob* I loved the development Yutaka and Minoru have in this oh my god. Their love is soooo big and meaningful - I'm literally in TEARS. May you find a love like they have found each other.
I'm excited af to know that there's going to be another volume. THIS IS REALLY ALL I WANT! ✨ Just more time with these characters :')
“we’ll always be your home. you have a place to come back to, so I can tell you to go. Because if it gets too hard you can always come right back here.”
“fall more in love with me. fall until you can’t live without me.”
When you get a continuation of an excellent manga 7 years later, it's hard to know if it's going to hold up to the original, or potentially even ruin things. After all, if a oneshot concludes in a complete, satisfying way, what need is there to inject new drama into the mix?
In this case, while I don't think more was necessary, it was really nice to see the continuation of the characters' story.
The art style feels a tiny bit different - it has been seven years, after all - with character designs that feel a bit more rounded and younger than before. But the overall narrative tone falls seamlessly into place, as though we're just picking up where we'd left off.
The first couple of chapters dive into something that I did think about in the original story...differentiating the way Yutaka feels about the Ueda brothers. It really could've been a more dramatic element of the story to begin with, because most of Yutaka's loneliness stemmed from being rejected by his family: specifically, his brother, whom he'd always wanted to love him.
When he bonds with the Ueda brothers and their father, he blossoms in a way he'd never been able to in his youth, and he very clearly thinks of them as his new family, with Tane as a much-loved little brother. So the natural thing would be for him to think of Minoru as a brother, too...which would make Minoru's kiss and confession devastating.
The original story didn't go that far into picking apart their relationship, but Ori probably thought about it over the years, because that's how we start out here...with Minoru asking Yutaka straight out if he thinks of him the same way he does Tane. He loves them both - there's no question about that. But is it just a familial love, or does he actually want Minoru in a romantic way? It's fine either way, Minoru assures him. There's no "date me or lose your new family" pressure attached. He just kind of needs to know.
Yutaka is astonished Minoru would even ask...and from that conversation on, they make a point of separating out "family" and "dating" time so there's sufficient room for both. It's very sweet and quite tame (this is a teen-rated series), and they both put a lot of care and effort into making each other feel wanted. Yutaka, although he'd mentioned "dating" in the original volume, only has about a month of actual dating experience, with a girl who'd quickly broken up with him because of his weird aversions around eating with others. Seems like he'd never really tried anything since.
When he asks Minoru about his own dating experience, Minoru doesn't lie, exactly, but he does dodge the truth in a way that misleads Yutaka into thinking he's Minoru's "first" in some ways that are important to him. It's less about the purely physical parts, and more just the idea that he knows Minoru in ways no one else does - only he has gotten to see his clingy, affectionate, needy side, etc.
But it turns out Minoru not only has an ex...well, more than one, but one ex in particular who makes it his mission to be a jerk to Yutaka.
There were things about this that I initially didn't like. The "cheating," for one...it's complicated, and never really explained in any detail, but the implication is that Minoru was dating a girl (or different girls over time?) while simultaneously sleeping with the guy who'd started out as his cram school tutor. Based on the timeline of his mother's pregnancy, Tane's growth, and Minoru's college experience, this probably lasted ~3 years?
Minoru tells Yutaka flat out that he doesn't want to talk about it, mostly because it's from a horrible period of his life, and he doesn't want Yutaka to hate or judge him for things he did back then. Yutaka initially says okay, that's fine, you don't need to talk about anything that makes you uncomfortable. And he means it...but he stews about it over time and realizes he's actually pretty angry and jealous.
So he tells Minoru - and also, after a conversation with Minoru's grandmother - realizes that he's the person in Minoru's life who's actually supposed to kind of push for that level of communication. That's what happens when you're in a relationship - you're the person your partner is supposed to be able to talk to, even about the terrible things.
So Minoru finally opens up and shares the whole story, and it's all genuinely fine. I liked that. I liked that they could talk through something so difficult without there being any judgement or lingering resentment. And it gave Minoru the space to start dealing with some of the hurt he'd been holding onto for all those years.
It wasn't just the relationship with his ex...it was the fact that all of this was happening while his mother was in the process of slowly, visibly dying right in front of him. He watched her bring his little brother into the world, and then he let go of his own life and college and career dreams to take care of his brother while his mother wasted away. They had an incredibly loving, supportive household, so it's an entirely different kind of trauma than what Yutaka went through, but it really weighed on him and changed the trajectory of his youth in some important ways.
The scene with Minoru asking his ex to help him pierce his ear so he could wear his mother's earring after she died...and the guy refusing because he didn't want to do anything that made him uncomfortable...transitioning to Minoru being held and listened to by the man who will always be there for him...
It's all pretty powerful.
The big thing lingering now is Yutaka's relationship with his own family. I did think it was a bit odd that he went to the effort of attending his brother's wedding/family business merger party, and didn't seem to actually interact with any of his family? But there was the letter from his brother that he hasn't read yet, so I assume that's what the next volume will be dealing with.
So while there were a couple things I wasn't 100% sold on in this volume, I was really happy to see all the characters again, and to be able to watch more of their relationship growth, on their way to that happy future we'd already seen at the end of the first book.
Always a heartwarming entry from Ori sensei, as if a hearty meal that treats our stomach to a fulfilling dinner.
I didn’t know there was a sequel, and mind you it doesn’t end there’s as there another sequel coming! Let’s get it on! I’m so excited about Tane slowly growing up, but I hope the story continues to thread calmly—Ori sensei has been my go to for light bl’s with green forest characters, healthy dynamics, and comforting atmosphere, so I want to keep it that way haha.
3.5 I really enjoy these foodie BLs and this one is really very sweet. I do love that the source of conflict isn't causing issues between them. They are strong together and communicating. I appreciate them just having meals and talking all the things through. They do become lovers but it is really pretty clean.
It feels like a lifetime ago that I first read Our Dining Table and loved it to bits. The long-awaited sequel did not disappoint! So happy to revisit these characters.
I can't wait! The one-shot has claimed its spot as my top fluffy BL reads so far! I loved the sweet and easy-going plot, very comforting and inviting!! I definitely recommend that to any BL lover who looks for light-hearted reads, a good one for all fans of childcare or fo0d-fare in manga (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶) So I know this will be absolutely amazing, I really, truly, can't wait! Shaking in excitement, to be more specific!! .o(≧∀≦)o
Our Dining Table: Seconds, Please! Vol. 1 by Mita Ori (trans. Amber Tamosaitis) is more or less a direct sequel to the delightful Our Dining Table, the story of two young men brought together by a cute little boy, and combining themes of enjoying food together as a way to open up to others and heal from trauma. It seems this time around there will be multiple volumes, which is great, as the original ended just as Minoru and Yutaka started dating.
The very gentle storytelling continues in this volume as the main characters adjust to dating and deepening their relationship. This is very much about building up the relationship relationship with intimate scenes always fading to black. This volume is a bit more focused on Minoru’s story with grief and a new, attractive and antagonistic character from his past shows up. There is a very mild jealousy plotline here, but I feel that it is discussed and resolved maturely. It feels like some cards are left on the table regarding how Minoru’s described his past, which I can only assume is going to fleshed out in further volumes because what we got this time around left me saying, “That’s all?”
I loved how Ori showed many scenes of Minoru’s grief and loss in wordless panels. The rhythm and pacing of panels is always exactly where it needs to be, and I’m impressed by the expressions and character work that such simple drawings do. I love Ori’s wispy art style. There does seem to be a push-and-pull where the dialogue is spare but then characters announce their deep feelings for each other off and on. I feel that this is well enough established by the story, but some may feel like it needs more build up.
There were some panels I felt like were a bit “off-model”, namely regarding Yutaka’s face shape and Minoru’s hair. This is also quite a dense volume and does suffer the issue a lot of romance manga does where I wish there was a just a bit more happening with the backgrounds. Despite the fact that mealtime is still an important time where characters gather, there’s a lot less cooking and hardly any illustrations of food in this volume, so it’s definitely hoping that the relationship, and the cuteness of Tane, will do the work of keeping the series appealing. For me, it still does the trick. I’m hoping to see more of the antagonistic character because he’s very interesting, and more obstacles for the couple for face, and more food in the next volume.
Didn't expect to find a sequel to this so many years later, but this new story is just as wholesome and adorable as the first one. Yutaka and Minoru have settled into their relationship, though it's clear there are still some things they both want, and they're talking about the future together. It will be interesting to see how Tane takes the news at the end, though it's difficult to think that they wouldn't be at the house with Pop for dinner more often than not given the family dynamics. It's clear that Yutaka is considered part of the family, which is heartwarming, especially given his nerves for his brother's wedding and the crowds. Minoru's ex keeps coming up, too, which Yutaka seems to be taking in stride though Minoru is not pleased at all. It will be interesting to see how the next volume unfolds given their conversations in this piece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I genuinely cannot recommend this series enough. The fact that I’m able to write a review, let alone read a sequel to a series that means so much to me felt unreal. The way their blossoming relationship is depicted in this volume just enriches the story Mita Ori has created for these two (and Tane) even more. The story doesn’t stray away from the fears that come with a new relationship, and the problems that the couple must go through together, and that’s what I really love about Our Dining Table. They have a beautiful, gentle love, but no relationship isn’t without its growing pains. And for anybody wanting just a bit more intimacy to be shown for these two, you’ll absolutely get your wish granted with Seconds, Please! I may be slightly biased but this manga, now turned manga series, will always have a very special place in my heart. 10/10 Would recommend!
This was so sweet! My heart feels so warm and full 💖😭💖
This is an excellent slice of life series. The tender love between Minoru and Yutaka just makes me so happy to read! This volume is definitely not without conflict, but it all works out so smoothly. It’s exactly what I want from the series! Both of them are just falling more and more in love with each other, and it makes me weak!
Don’t even get me started on Tane and Pop! They’re both so cute! They’re also both so accepting and loving. They truly accept Yutaka into their family like it’s as easy as breathing 😭 What a wonderful family! Even grandma is loving and accepting! Be still my heart!
I truly cannot wait to continue reading about these cuties 💖
4.5 - an excellent follow up that hits on some interesting topics and introduces a new character I'm intrigued to see more from. this is a very sweet BL with fade-to-black sex scenes, but I was happy that sex and the characters desires were brought up at multiple points instead of it being something shoved to the side to maintain the wholesomeness. I feel like depth of emotion could have been explored a bit more, especially given some of the conflict that crops up, but hopefully that'll show up in the following volumes. all in all, very top tier BL for readers that enjoy softer couples and new/first-relationship awkwardness.
So domestic and wonderful that it brings me to tears <3 This is the best comfort read for this time of year. I'm so glad that Our Dining Table gets to continue because these two are just so simple, so sweet, so good, that I could watch them forever. It kinda scratches an itch for me that "Our Not So Lonely Planet Travel Guide" and "What Did You Eat Yesterday" left behind. Just so cozy and heartwarming. I love every single character in this, and I find their communication and emotional vulnerability so refreshing.
I can’t say enough good things out “Our Dining Table” series. Yay! It’s a series. I re-read “Our Dining Table” before digging into “Seconds vol 1”. So good. So heartfelt and I love her art style. “Lion Hearts” and more “Our Dining Table” such a nice balm. It’s a sweet romance and family story. I really like that she’s excited to fill in the blanks of the story after the time jump. Looking forward to volume 2. Happy to read all of her future works
I'm glad to see a sequel to this series. I found it a little backwards since I watched the show first and then found the manga. I still love it though. The main leaders are struggling with issues that anyone can have and it's cute how they lean into each other for support. Also who doesn't love Tane-kun!!
it's my favorite, so cute, adorable and such warm hug type of story. Tane Kun is so perfect, he actually acts like a kid. Yutaka and Minoru are the healthiest couple ever. it is so dear to my heart, such a green flag manga, planning to buy the paperback.
Goodness, I loved the even more than the first one which is saying something because I LOVED the first one. This series is just so wholesome and adorable. I loved the light angst here and the continued development of Yutaka and Minoru's relationship (+ how adorable Tane is). I can't wait for the second volume!
I am so glad this exists 🥹 So heartwarming. We did get some angst in this volume. We got an ex showing up being nasty. We got less of Tane, which was a little disappointing. BUT we got more relationship progress with our mains as a trade-off. I am glad the series is continuing. As of now, the sequels are two volumes and counting 🫡😌
This was just as lovely as its predecessor, and while it has been awhile, I had no idea how happy I would be to continue following the wholesome story of Yutaka and the Ueda family. If you are looking for a heartwarming, family oriented bl romance, look no further. I look forward to volume 2.
Found out this book exists a few weeks ago, bought it last week, and started reading it today. I'm thrilled to get a series out of what I thought was a standalone volume!
"So my dear grandchildren have increased." are you kidding me right now 😭😭😭
This was a lovely sequel to the original which I loved when I read it a few years ago. And finishing it after I just read Delinquent Daddy and Tender teacher series I feel like I’m creating a reading trend for myself.
I’m excited that this isn’t a standalone and well get a volume two
Esta secuela tiene todo lo que eché en falta en la primera parte. Desarrollo de la relación, algún conflicto y mucha dulzura. No hay dramas sin sentido y todo evoluciona de manera muy natural. Un poquito de calidez para estos días de frío. Espero el siguiente volumen.
“You know Yutaka we’ll always be your home. You have a place to come back to. So I can tell you to go. Because if it gets too hard you can just come right back here” OH MY GODDDDDDD I LOVE THIS SERIES SO MUCHHHH I LOVE THEIR LOVE FOR EACH OTHER. Found families for the WIN.