Outward meets this pretty well. It might not be quite storybook but it’s far from grimdark. Soulslike, full coop - definitely has the “might not make it back from a dangerous dungeon”. Only thing you might not like is some light survival mechanics (ie food and water).

Makes me think of Shenmue but with different theming.

Just to be clear, the image is depicting not only that the sauce is a crutch but also that Nando’s only barely limps along even WITH the sauce.

IMO, no. There are a billion good places to eat while in the UK but I don’t think Nando’s is one of them.