Some of the food and restaurants that have stood out to me have resulted from the vibrant descriptions written on the pages of the books that have left a mark in my memory. While these adjectives may not be tangible, the words directing the sights and smells my way make me feel like I’m right there with the characters (in both amazing and terrible ways). Let’s take a look at the food that I’d love to try and some food spots that might just make an interesting visit.
The Stone Soup in Stone Soup by Marcia Brown
When I was a child, I was in awe of how the soldiers started with stones to put in the boiling pot of water, and how the people from town eventually started putting their share of ingredients to make this soup and eventual feast for the entire village. Though I can now see that there was some trickery involved, the younger me wished to taste the soup itself, which seemed like a warm, hearty meal for a cold day.
Cram in The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
Now bear with me here — I know Cram may not be described as the most delicious food in the world, but as the daughter of a big Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fan, this biscuit seems like something I’d still love to try! Cram is explained to provide energy during a long journey, so I’d
like to think of it akin to a protein bar or even a breakfast bar for a long day ahead.
Raspberry Cordial in Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
I have a bit of a sweet tooth, and from reading and watching the series, I was always curious about the Raspberry Cordial. Or rather, I was curious what Anne and Diana’s reactions would have been, had they drank the Raspberry Cordial instead of the currant wine.
Bonus: Bringing Fictional Food to Life
Marmalade Sandwich in A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
I’ve never had anyone describe marmalade with so much love as Paddington has. Yes, this isn’t a culinary revelation, but it doesn’t need to be. With my love for Paddington and his love for his marmalade, well I suppose I love marmalade sandwiches as much as I love this bear’s story.
Food Spots
French Bakery in The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue By V.E. Schwab
While this French Bakery doesn’t make a huge appearance throughout the story, I still think about how Addie spoke to the owner, Michel, in French, and how he gave all the pastries that were left in his bakery to Addie. I’d like to imagine the smell of bread that lived in that bakery; it’s something I’d love to step into.
The Blue Plate Special in The Sisters Grimm series by Michael Buckley
As an ode to the book series that made me fall in love with reading, I’d love to travel to The Blue Plate Special Diner. To be honest, I’m not sure if I would visit the diner for the food per se, but I’d love to see what’s going on in Ferryport Landing and hopefully be somewhat helpful to the Grimm family.
Folk tales, fantasy, and the comforting embrace of my favorite childhood stories continue to live in my mind. I can only hope that trying my hand at cooking or baking similar food will allow me the opportunity to live in their world just a little longer.
Looking for some snacks to eat while you read? Check this out!
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