As much as I loved the first season of Shinya Sokudou (I gave it a 9), Shinya Shokudo 2 may be better. The stories are slightly less predictable, and the acting improved. You could watch season 2 without watching season 1, but I think season 2 may not be as good if you don't experience the connection that develops through season 1. It follows the same formula as the first season. The story centers around a cafe/diner that is only open from midnight to until breakfast. Each episode focuses on the experiences of an individual patron and can be watched independently. However, the episodes in season 2 are slightly more connected than season 1 (just barely). The mood is similar to season 1: melancholy and bittersweet. Season 2 really feels like it may be the end of this drama, which kinda brought tears to my eyes. It's quiet and reflective, so you have to be a person who likes that sort of thing and in the right mood to watch it.