Eating in Community

As you know, I spend quite a bit of time contemplating and writing about food as it relates to people. I find it fascinating that food is one of the only substances that can transcend culture, demographics, and inequalities. I mean, seriously, you can sit down to a meal with someone completely not like you and have an amazing experience.

Because I don’t get out much to test my theories, I really like to watch travel shows. Learning about different cultures and how people around the globe are so different from my Midwestern conceptions is a humbling and eye-opening experience. I have noticed, however, that the commentators always delve into the local food movements. In order to “get to know” the local populace, you go eat with them! Every professional traveler will tell you that the best thing to do while traveling is to find a cafe that you like and to go there every day while in that city. You may not be there very long, but wait staff and regular customers will recognize you and their attitudes towards this stranger will change. You become part of the “in” crowd. Just by eating food around others. That’s a fascinating concept.

What is it about food-specifically sharing a meal- that causes us to open up to others? Why do I feel more comfortable and accepted if I’m eating? Why, when I want to hang out with friends, do I feel the need to either share a meal or at least have snacks? I’m sitting in a cafe, waiting for a friend, so that we can have coffee and talk about life. Why didn’t we meet in the park? Why is coffee a required part of meeting up?

I don’t really know the answers to these questions. I have given a lot of thought to these questions, but there isn’t a single point where everything comes together. Like so many things, there are roots deep in the historic and generational memory. I’m still ruminating, so I’ll just leave this open ended for now. I’ll be contemplating this topic frequently, so as I come up with new insights, I will keep you apprised.