About Sweetbitter

Sweetbitter is an American drama television series, based on the novel of the same name by Stephanie Danler. The series follows Tess, a 22-year-old who arrives in New York City ready to pursue a new life. When she's invited to train at one of the best restaurants in the city, she thinks she's found a steady income and a safe place to wait. She is quickly introduced to the world of drugs, alcohol, love, lust, dive bars, and fine dining.

Making / Production

The series was created by Stephanie Danler who also wrote the novel on which it is based. It premiered on Starz on May 6, 2018. Danler, Stuart Zicherman, and Plan B executive produced the series. Sweetbitter was filmed on location in New York City providing authentic visuals for its storyline.

Actors

• Ella Purnell as Tess: A 22-year-old who arrives in New York City to pursue a new life. Purnell's performance heightens Tess’s inquisitiveness and vulnerability.
• Tom Sturridge as Jake: The bartender at the restaurant who forms a strong & complicated bond with Tess. Sturridge gives a captivating performance.
• Caitlin Fitzgerald as Simone: An experienced server at the restaurant who takes Tess under her wing. Fitzgerald gave a nuanced performance of a complex character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series is based on Stephanie Danler's best-selling book of the same name.
• It was shot in New York City, capturing the vibrant and fast-paced life of the city.
• Stephanie Danler, who wrote the book and created the series, used to work in the restaurant industry, lending an air of authenticity to the series.

Awards

As of date, the series has not received any major awards.

Quotes

• "The person who cares the least has the most power."
• "You will never understand this world until you're on the floor."
• "It’s a job, it’s not a lifestyle. Unless you want it to be."

Music, Soundtrack

• The series features an eclectic soundtrack with a range of music from classical to modern indie rock.
• Several episodes feature prominently the music of singer-songwriter Sharon Van Etten.
• Classical pieces by composers such as Vivaldi, Bach, and Mozart are also used in various scenes, contrasting the high energy rhythms of New York City with the refined atmosphere of the fine dining world.