Sugar Dog Life feels like a comforting bowl of porridge - light, stress-free and easy to digest. However, like porridge, it lacks depth and excitement, leaving you wanting something more flavorful. The story was enjoyable but it only skimmed through the surface without exploring the characters.

To me, this felt more like a one-sided love story. While Isumi clearly carries romantic feelings for Amasawa, we don't get Amasawa's POV till the very end. It felt like he treated Isumi as a friend rather than a lover or a partner. Their interactions felt very platonic. I am all here for a good slow burn but feelings should simmer on both the sides. It was frustrating at times.

I wanted a full-course meal to know more about the characters and their intentions but instead, I was served starters which left me craving for more. Both Isumi and Amasawa's characters hinted at complex flavours with fragmented glimpses of their backstories but ultimately couldn't make it to the table.

Despite this, it skips all the heavy drama to keep the narrative light and feel-good. The lead actor's performances are what carried the drama. It felt very authentic. Isumi's friends as supporting characters were such a delight. I enjoyed their warm camaraderie.

Overall, the pacing was a bit uneven here and there, and the romance felt undercooked, but I would still recommend this if you are looking for something simple and full of gentle moments and of course food.