Are you a foodie? Consider planning a vacation to the Museum of Food and Drink in New York where you can eat the exhibits. Get your forks- and chopsticks- ready now because you’re going to work up appetite with this post.
Where
Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the MOFAD is a relatively new establishment dedicated to all things edible. It opened its first permanent home in 2015 after launching pop-up and touring exhibits around New York City. But, its roots date back to 2005. That’s when food writer and inventor Dave Arnold was inspired to create a Smithsonian-scale museum dedicated to food.
Exhibits
The museum has rotating exhibits that focus on various aspects of the culinary and beverage industry. So far, these have included focuses on flavor, feasts, and festivals, and cereal.
However, merely relating to food and drink isn’t enough to secure a spot at the MOFAD. The curatorial process is fairly involved, and consideration is given to several factors. Those factors include history and culture, science and technology, production and commerce, and policy and ethics.
The current exhibit is called CHOW: Making the Chinese American Restaurant. It explores the long, rich history of Chinese eateries in America. A massive curtain constructed of 7,250 takeout boxes, a menu timeline that goes back to 1910 and tastings at the KitchenAid Culinary Studio are a few elements of the immersive experience.
Coming down the pike, the museum is raising money to fund its next exhibition. One that centers on how African Americans have built the foundation for food in the U.S.
Events
In addition to exhibits, the MOFAD has a robust program of unique food-related events. These include DinnerLab, a series of experiential dinners, and Eat-Drink-Read, which features cookbook demos, book launches, author talks, and a children’s program called Kids in the Kitchen.
Getting There
Getting to the MOFAD is accessible via public transportation. It’s a short walk from the Lorimer or Bedford stops on the L train. Or the Metropolitan and Nassau ends on the G train. The museum is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 pm–6 pm, with the last admission at 5:30 pm.