Bogwood cutlery, manga-inspired t-shirts, pop-up menus and more: these are the designs rocking the food world right now
13 September 2023
Story-driven Spaces
In the 1980s, it wasn’t just about the food; it was about the atmosphere. Stylish restaurants became the backdrop for social interaction and cultural expression. “Restaurants serve as theatres for social competition and cultural modeling,” remarks design critic Stephen Bayley. Today, culinary spaces are woven with narratives, whether it’s the circular-design thread of modern eateries or the artistic contributions from local creatives.
Christophe Penasse and Ana Milena Hernandez
Many establishments now focus on creating experiences that captivate patrons, prompting one to ask: is it Instagrammable? As Christophe Penasse of Masquespacio states, “Our spaces may become that, but it’s not something we aim to achieve.” Culinary design today plays with form and texture to create emotionally resonant spaces.
New-Old Ceramics
Despite attempts to innovate serving ware, ceramics remain irreplaceable in food presentation. The charm of rustic, artisanal ceramics is reemerging, as seen in establishments like East Fork in North Carolina, renowned for its unique glazes. In contrast to the smooth, modern white porcelain, today’s ceramics often draw on local materials, reflecting a sense of terroir.
The rise of extravagant tasting menus has led to bespoke ceramic pieces, each crafted for tactile and aesthetic appeal. Culinary agent Mat Froggatt highlights, “When it comes to enhancing a chef’s meticulous creations, there’s nothing quite like it.” Traditional styles are enjoying a renaissance, reaffirming ceramics’ position in modern gastronomy.
Haute Cutlery
Experiencing fine dining is deeply tied to the cutlery presented. Luxury establishments increasingly focus on bespoke utensils that highlight craft and status. In this context, Alex Pole, a blacksmith in Dorset, notes the trend towards textural designs that appear rustic, yet are highly functional. “Cutlery rests and artisanal designs are in demand,” he shares, illustrating how the connection between design and dining experience plays a critical role.
Supreme-Level Merch
Recently, restaurant merchandise has gained immense popularity, akin to the trendy streetwear collaborations of brands like Supreme. Limited-edition restaurant merchandise, including creatively designed t-shirts, has become a hot commodity. “They’re like the new matchbook,” explains designer Merlin Mannelly. The merchandising trend aligns food culture with artistic expression, captivating collectors and diners alike.
Popping Menus
Menus have evolved into culinary snapshots that reflect their time. While fewer traditional designs exist today, the art of menu creation persists, evidenced by unique illustrations and stories that accompany the dishes. Designers are exploring innovative concepts, such as transforming QR codes into captivating visual experiences, ensuring that menus remain engaging and memorable.
