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Entertainment • TV Series

Sweetbitter

Sweetbitter is an American drama television series based on Stephanie Danler’s 2016 novel of the same name.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Sweetbitter is an American drama television series based on Stephanie Danler’s 2016 novel of the same name. It premiered on Starz in 2018 and follows Tess, a young woman navigating work and life in a New York City restaurant. The series ran for two seasons before being canceled in 2019.

Premise

Sweetbitter follows Tess as she starts work at a celebrated New York restaurant and becomes immersed in its social, professional, and nightlife culture. The story explores coming of age, identity, and the pressures of the restaurant industry.

Production and development

The series was developed from Stephanie Danler’s novel, which was inspired by her own experience working at Union Square Café. Starz announced the adaptation in 2017, with Danler credited as creator.

Broadcast history

Sweetbitter premiered on Starz in May 2018. The network renewed it for a second season in July 2018, and the second season aired in July 2019 before cancellation later that year.

Key facts

  • The series is adapted from Stephanie Danler’s debut novel.
  • It centers on Tess, a young newcomer to New York City who begins working in a high-end restaurant.
  • The show premiered on Starz on May 6, 2018.
  • A second season premiered on July 14, 2019.
  • Starz canceled the series in December 2019 after two seasons.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sweetbitter about?
It follows Tess, a young woman who takes a job at a New York City restaurant and becomes drawn into its intense work culture and nightlife.
Is Sweetbitter based on a book?
Yes. It is based on Stephanie Danler’s 2016 novel Sweetbitter.
When did Sweetbitter premiere?
It premiered on Starz on May 6, 2018.
How many seasons does Sweetbitter have?
The series has two seasons.
Was Sweetbitter canceled?
Yes. Starz canceled the series in December 2019 after two seasons.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweetbitter_(TV_series)
    Supports: Premise, creator, premiere date, renewal, cancellation, and season count
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7563270/
    Supports: Series title, release date, and basic show information
  3. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/sweetbitter/1000251392/
    Supports: Plot description and series premise
  4. Starz — https://www.starz.com/us/en/series/sweetbitter/37699
    Supports: Official series description and season count