Sequels in the Hallmark‑Mystery universe can wobble — too cute, too safe, too “we solved one murder so now we’re basically CSI” — but Grilling Season tightens the recipe instead of watering it down. Nikki DeLoach returns as Goldy Berry with even more grounded, sardonic charm, the kind that says, “I can marinate a flank steak and interrogate a suspect before noon.” Andrew Walker’s Detective Tom Schultz settles comfortably into the role of the steady, quietly amused partner‑in‑crime‑solving. Their chemistry feels lived‑in now, like two Gen‑X coworkers who’ve survived enough PTA meetings and homicide scenes to communicate in eyebrow raises and sighs.
Director Paul Ziller leans into what worked the first time while sharpening the edges just enough to keep things lively. The warm lighting and food‑centric visuals remain, but the stakes feel a touch higher — not grim, just spicier, like someone slipped a jalapeño into the Hallmark casserole. Riley Davis returns as Goldy’s daughter, bringing that perfect “Mom, can we not investigate murder today?” energy that feels authentically teen without tipping into sitcom territory. Jaycie Dotin’s Marla Maguire continues to be Goldy’s emotional anchor, grounding the story with the kind of friendship that makes the chaos feel personal rather than procedural.
The mystery itself is more layered this time around, rewarding attention without punishing you if you glance at your phone to check a recipe. Lochlyn Munro’s Dr. Richard Korman once again hovers with that deliciously ambiguous “I know something, but I’m not telling you unless you corner me in a parking lot” vibe. Jason Schombing’s Detective Smoot adds a welcome dose of dry humor — the kind of guy who looks permanently one coffee short of tolerating another amateur‑sleuth situation, yet still shows up and does the job. Their presence keeps the police side of the story textured rather than perfunctory.
The ensemble as a whole keeps the world feeling warm, quirky, and just suspicious enough to stay fun. The grilling‑competition backdrop introduces new faces and motives, but the returning cast gives the film continuity and emotional grounding. Goldy’s relationships — with her daughter, her friends, and the local authorities — give the mystery a sense of community rather than just a string of clues. It’s the kind of small‑town ecosystem where everyone has a secret, but most of them are more embarrassing than deadly.
Overall, Grilling Season earns its 4-crowns rating by being a sequel that actually builds on what worked the first time. It’s breezy, charming, lightly snarky, and anchored by two leads who feel like real people rather than Hallmark archetypes. It’s comfort viewing with a pulse — the Gen‑X sweet spot — and it proves this series has legs, recipes, and a surprisingly high homicide rate for a town that probably has only one decent grocery store.
Curious Caterer: Grilling Season is available on Hallmark Movies Now, and it also rotates through Peacock depending on current licensing. It’s an easy, satisfying weekend watch — the kind of cozy mystery you throw on when you want something warm, clever, and just twisty enough to keep you from wandering off to fold laundry.
MPAA Rating: TV-PG.
Runtime: 84 mins
Director: Paul Ziller
Writer:Diane Mott Davidson; John Christian Plummer
Cast: Nikki DeLoach; Andrew W. Walker; Jaycie Dotin
Genre: Mystery | Crime
Tagline: Murder is Back on the Menu
Memorable Movie Quote: "Do you want to play detective?"
Distributor: Hallmak +
Official Site:
Release Date: February 5, 2023
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: Caterer Goldy Berry reunites with detective Tom Schultz when a realtor is murdered. As they uncover personal and professional rivalries, they realize the culprit is closer than expected.
