The Syracuse University Lava Project explores the use of molten rock through art and education, as well as a few unconventional experiments—such as cooking steak and other meats at extremely high temperatures.
Led by sculptor Bob Wysocki and geologist Jeff Karson, this unusual cooking experiment takes the concept of flames on an open grill to new levels. The experiment required an outdoor kitchen and a trough for the lava to flow underneath thick pieces of steak, salmon and hot dogs, which as you might expect, cooked extremely quickly.
In place of a fabric apron and oven mitts, extreme heat-resistant wear was required since lava has a temperature that's into the thousands of degrees Fahrenheit. As dangerous as it sounds, some restaurants would probably love the idea of being able to put on a show and serve food fast.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Extreme Heat Cooking
- Opportunity for restaurants to showcase unique cooking methods
- Lava-based Art and Education
- Potential for creating unique art and educational experiences around lava
- Experiential Dining
- Opportunity to create immersive dining experiences with unconventional cooking methods
Where This Applies
- Hospitality
- Restaurants can incorporate extreme heat cooking methods to create unique dining experiences
- Art and Education
- Lava-based art and educational experiences can be offered in museums and educational institutions
- Entertainment
- Experiential dining concepts can be developed for entertainment venues such as theme parks and experiential museums
