The Conflict Kitchen is a new "hole-in-the-wall" restaurant in Pittsburgh that serves customers food from "enemy" nations (at least "enemy" according to the American government). The creators, Jon Rubin, John Pena and Dawn Weleski, created the Conflict Kitchen to raise awareness of international issues surrounding the USA and its conflicted counterparts.
Every four months the restaurant is supposed to change themes, highlighting the numerous country conflicts. Featured this month is the 'Kubideh Kitchen,' which features the Kubideh sandwich, an Iranian specialty. The Conflict Kitchen is a pretty inventive way to raise awareness.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Controversial Restaurants
- Creating restaurants that are controversial or politically charged can garner attention and raise awareness about social issues.
- Culinary Diplomacy
- Food can be a powerful tool for promoting diplomacy and understanding among nations that may have strained relationships.
- Food Activism
- Using food as a way to challenge food norms or social issues can be an effective way to engage with people and effect social change.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Restaurant Industry
- There is an opportunity for the restaurant industry to drive social change through innovative and politically charged concepts like Conflict Kitchen.
- Food and Beverage Industry
- Creative use of food and beverage concepts can draw attention to global issues and promote understanding among consumers.
- Social Activism
- Creating socially charged concepts within the food industry can be employed as a tool to promote social activism and engender public awareness of complex issues.
