Eat, think, and be merry: food in art galleries

Andrew Webb seeks out food for body and mind, as he goes in search of good food in art galleries.

Barely 10 Years ago, the idea that you could enjoy a good evening of culture and food in the same establishment was laughable. How times have changed, nowadays many of our great public institutions have realised that the eating is as important as the exhibits. 

Live and Let dine

Oliver Peyton, perhaps the best known practicer of public catering, has set up a series of weekly events called Friday Night Social at the National Cafe, inside the National gallery. The one I attended featured a talk about the Fighting Temerarie and its role in the new James Bond movie, Skyfall. The food and drink is also inspired by Bond. What followed was a four course dinner served family style (as in communally and you all serve yourself) for a mere £25. Which when you include the cocktail, food and private talk and viewing of the painting is a good value night out. The fact that we all had this communal experience proved a great ice breaker for many and the conversation soon flowed.  There’s a whole range of events planned - think cocktails, conversation and culture. Check out the Peyton & Bryne website for more details. 

Pyjama party!

Adult sleepover in the Natural History Museum

How much nocturnal hanky panky goes on under the gaze of Darwin’s statue is anyone’s guess. But the idea of bedding down under the massive fossilised skeleton of Dippy the diplodocus after an evening of great events sure does appeal. Thing kicks off with a three course dinner in the museum’s restaurant, followed by a quiz, stand-up comedy, life drawing for artistic types, and a science show featuring the sex lives of stick insects. No sleep over would be complete without a midnight feast, and this being the NHM there’s features edible insects. The Full English in the morning puts everyone back on an even keel. 

Thursday is the new Friday

Lots of museums in the capital stay open late on Thursdays (and some on Friday’s too) see Visit London or www.firstthursdays.co.uk for more details.

Manchester City Art Gallery

Outside of the capital other cities are wooing the late night culture vulture. Manchester City Art Gallery offers late night Thursdays till 9pm. The cafe offers a special evening menu of snacks and generous sharing platters with a special selection of wines and beers chosen to complement them. There’s often live music or a talk going on too, call for details. 

National Museums Scotland 

RBS Lates sees various late night events (complete with food and drinks) happening in the museum. Check website for more details.

Newcastle

The Biscuit Factory, a contemporary art gallery in Newcastle has within it Food Social, headed up be chef David Kennedy.

Do you know a good place to eat in or near a museum or gallery? If so let us know in the comments below.

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