The Dinner Table Detective [Season 1 Episode 3]

The Dinner Table Detective – Season 1, Episode 3: A Mystery Worth Savoring

“The Dinner Table Detective” has quickly become one of the most intriguing anime releases of 2025, blending mystery, drama, and a dash of humor in a way that keeps viewers hooked. Episode 3, titled “Here’s A Message From The Dead File 2,” dives deeper into the show’s unique premise—solving crimes over dinner—while introducing a new case that tests protagonist Reiko Hosho’s detective skills.

A Fresh Take on Mystery

The anime, based on Tokuya Higashigawa’s popular mystery novels, follows Reiko, a wealthy heiress who moonlights as a detective under the guidance of Inspector Kazamatsuri. What sets The Dinner Table Detective apart is its setting: Kunitachi City, Tokyo, where crimes are unraveled not in dark alleys but over elegant dinners. Episode 3 continues this trend, with Reiko tackling the murder of a real estate company president—a case that’s as much about hidden motives as it is about hidden clues.

Fans have praised the show’s ability to balance tension with lighthearted moments. One Reddit user noted, “It’s like Sherlock meets Food Wars!—you get the thrill of a mystery but with the cozy vibe of a dinner party.” The episode’s pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to piece together clues alongside Reiko, making the eventual reveal all the more satisfying.

Character Dynamics Shine

Reiko’s dual life—switching from a poised heiress to a sharp-witted detective—is a highlight of the series. Episode 3 further explores her relationship with Inspector Kazamatsuri, whose own aristocratic background adds an interesting layer to their dynamic. A MyAnimeList commenter pointed out, “Their banter is gold. You can tell they respect each other, but there’s this playful rivalry that keeps things fresh.”

The supporting cast also gets moments to shine, particularly Reiko’s butler, whose dry wit and unwavering loyalty provide some of the episode’s funniest lines. “The butler stealing scenes is my new favorite anime trope,” tweeted one fan.

The Case: Twists and Turns

Without spoiling too much, Episode 3’s mystery revolves around a cryptic message left by the victim—a classic whodunit with a modern twist. The writing cleverly plays with expectations, leading viewers down one path before pulling the rug out from under them. A discussion on AbemaTV’s forums highlighted how the episode “subverts the usual detective tropes by making the solution feel earned, not just pulled out of thin air.”

The dinner scene, where Reiko finally connects the dots, is a masterclass in tension. The way the camera lingers on each character’s reaction makes it clear that everyone at the table has something to hide. “It’s like Clue but with better food,” joked a fan on Pinkvilla.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The animation, handled by a yet-to-be-confirmed studio (though rumors point to Production I.G.), is sleek and stylish. Kunitachi City is rendered with a warm, almost nostalgic glow, contrasting sharply with the darker undertones of the crimes. Episode 3’s standout visual moment is a slow pan across the dinner table, where every glance and gesture feels loaded with meaning.

Fan Reactions: Love It or Leave It?

Not everyone is sold on the show’s premise, though. Some critics argue that the dinner gimmick limits the action. “I get that it’s unique, but I wish there was more actual detective work outside the dining room,” wrote one disgruntled viewer on MyAnimeList. Others, however, appreciate the restraint. “It’s refreshing to see a mystery anime that doesn’t rely on over-the-top action. The tension comes from the dialogue, not explosions,” countered another.

Final Verdict

The Dinner Table Detective Episode 3 is a strong entry in what’s shaping up to be a standout series. Its blend of mystery, character-driven storytelling, and a dash of humor makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Whether you’re in it for the whodunits or the witty banter, this episode delivers on all fronts.

As one fan perfectly summed it up: “It’s the kind of show that makes you want to solve crimes—or at least host a fancy dinner party.”

Rating: 4.5/5
Where to Watch: Fuji TV (Japan), Prime Video (International)

What did you think of Episode 3? Did you guess the killer before Reiko? Let’s discuss in the comments!