Oct 3rd, 2023 on

Five TV Shows to Enjoy During Your Lunch Break

(Updated Apr 25th, 2024)

If you’re anything like me and enjoy having some company during your meals, you probably know every line from beloved sitcoms like “Friends” and “The Office” by heart. Those shows have been our faithful lunchtime companions for years. However, this year, I decided to explore new comedy TV shows to accompany me during my midday break. Being a Mediterranean girl working from home, lunch is a cherished part of my day.

As I ventured into the world of television, I discovered a few gems that I can’t wait to share with you—some old, some new. These shows serve different purposes; they can either play in the background or demand your full attention. I’ve read that our brains struggle to focus on two things simultaneously, so it might seem counterintuitive to watch TV while eating. Surprisingly, it had an unexpected effect on me.

I’m a notoriously fast eater, but watching these shows actually slowed me down. The episodes typically last around 20 minutes, and I found myself savoring my food more than ever before. It’s a delightful revelation, isn’t it?

Without further ado, let me introduce you to these fantastic TV shows that have brightened up my lunch breaks.

According to Jim

Sitcom | Comedy

According to Jim aired from 2001 to 2009, is a classic sitcom starring the talented Jim Belushi. With a remarkable eight-season run, this show offers delightful 20-minute episodes that are perfect for a quick lunchtime escape.

The series revolves around the life of Jim, played by Jim Belushi, and his wife Cheryl, portrayed by Courtney Thorne-Smith. Together, they are the parents of three young children, all under the age of five. In According to Jim we get an uproarious glimpse into the comical adventures that come with raising a family.

The show’s humor lies in the relatable chaos of parenthood, where everyday situations take unexpected and often hilarious turns. Jim’s laid-back approach to life and parenting often clashes with Cheryl’s more practical sensibilities, creating a dynamic that’s both endearing and amusing.

Adding to the mix are Cheryl’s single siblings, whose contrasting personalities and lifestyles provide an extra layer of humor and familial interactions. According to Jim is a heartwarming yet laugh-out-loud series that beautifully captures the ups and downs of family life in the most entertaining way possible.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Sitcom | Comedy

Brooklyn Nine-Nine was highly recommended by my best friend, and guess what? She was absolutely right. A comedy that seamlessly blends with crime-solving mysteries? You’ve got my attention! Oh, they had me hooked right from the pilot. This show truly has it all. I must say that season 3 was my favorite, and to give you a taste of what to expect, let’s dive into one memorable episode: Into the Woods.

In this hilarious episode, our beloved detectives Jake Peralta, Terry Jeffords, and Charles Boyle decide, well, Jake decides, that it’s time to escape the city for a weekend of fun in the woods. They rent a cabin and head out, woefully unprepared, which, of course, leads to the escalation of their problems in the most comical way possible. Picture three city guys struggling to navigate the great outdoors, and you’ve got a recipe for laughter.

But what makes Brooklyn Nine-Nine truly exceptional is not just its central trio. The rest of the cast shines just as brightly. Captain Raymond Holt, Rosa Diaz, the endearing and food-obsessed Gina Linetti, and the bumbling but well-meaning Hitchcock and Scully, whose antics add another layer of hilarity to the precinct.

If you’re seeking a TV series that serves up a delightful mix of laughter and brilliantly clever crime-solving, then Brooklyn Nine-Nine is your one-stop destination.

Man with a Plan

Comedy

Man with a Plan the 2016 sitcom spanning four seasons, stars the incomparable Matt LeBlanc as Adam Burns, a husband and father of three teenagers running a business with his brother. Chaos ensues when his wife returns to work. This show masterfully blends family humor with LeBlanc’s charisma, offering a fresh perspective on modern parenting and work-life balance. With relatable situations and LeBlanc’s comedic brilliance, Man with a Plan is a must-see for those seeking laughs and heartwarming family moments. For fans of family humor and Matt LeBlanc’s charm, it’s a must-watch. Many, myself included, wished for more seasons because it’s just that good. LeBlanc’s performance in this show further solidifies his status as an entertainment favorite.

Cougar Town

Sitcom | Comedy | Romance

Cougar Town, ah, yet another delightful sitcom starring Courteney Cox, one of the beloved actors from Friends! This show ran for a fantastic six seasons and was a real buzz. Courteney, known as Jules, or Monica to Friends fans, plays the role of a divorced single mother and a highly successful businesswoman in the real estate world. All of this takes place in the charming fictional town of Gulfhaven, Florida.

Jules shares her daily adventures with her next-door best friend, who is a stay-at-home mom initially but finds her way back into the workforce, transforming her sweet husband into a stay-at-home dad. The chemistry between these two friends is incredible, they make a dynamic duo, and their escapades are a constant source of entertainment.

Now, Jules son is all grown up, but she just can’t seem to accept it! She’s the kind of mom who goes to great lengths in hilariously embarrassing ways to help her son, resulting in plenty of good-natured laughter.

Adding to the mix, Jules has her ex-husband in the picture, and she’s also navigating a new relationship with her boyfriend, which adds its own set of comedic challenges. Cougar Town is a sitcom filled with heartwarming moments and unique humor that keeps viewers entertained throughout its six-season run.

And after all the ups and downs, the laughter, and the heartwarming moments in Cougar Town, you’ll truly want to unwind with a glass, or maybe even a bottle, of wine. Trust me, you’ll understand the wine connection once you start watching the show. It’s the perfect complement to this delightful series!

Modern Family

Sitcom | Comedy

Last but not least, Modern Family! I must confess, I was genuinely moved during the final episode of this remarkable series. I simply didn’t want it to end, I loved it that much. What can I say about this unforgettable show? It’s not just about a family it’s about THE family.

The great Ed O’Neill, who portrays Jay, is now happily married to the vivacious Colombian beauty, Gloria, played by Sofia Vergara. Gloria brings her own charm, and she’s got a teenage son, Manny, who adds a unique dynamic to the family. Jay also has his own kids, Mitchell and Claire, each with their own families. Mitchell happens to be gay, and he and his partner, Cam, along with their daughter, form a heartwarming and endearing unit. Then there’s Claire, the loving but often frazzled mother of three, whose quirky and sweet husband, Phil, provides a perfect balance to their family dynamic.

But what makes Modern Family truly special is its ability to deliver a poignant and positive message at the end of every storm. The show consistently reminds us of the importance of sticking together as a family and having each other’s backs, even when they get entangled in hilariously uncomfortable moments.

One memorable episode that encapsulates the essence of Modern Family is The Future Dunphys from Season 4. In this episode, Mitchell and Cam decide to take Lily to a Vietnamese restaurant during a trip. Their intention is to help Lily connect with her Vietnamese heritage. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Lily is not exactly thrilled about exploring her cultural roots. Meanwhile, Gloria inadvertently finds herself in an awkward situation at the same restaurant, leading to some comically offensive interactions with other patrons. It’s a prime example of the show’s ability to blend humor with heart.

In the end, Modern Family isn’t just a show, it’s a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the beauty of finding the silver lining in even the most chaotic of moments. This show will forever hold a special place in our hearts as it reminds us that love and laughter are the glue that keeps families together.