BWW Reviews: The Food Book Fair - Growing the Intersection of Food, Art, and Culture

Oh, how I embrace the chilly afternoons of early Spring in New York, if only because it means winter is over. And, how I love to spend that time, eating, strolling, and delighting may way in that atmosphere. As it happens this time I made my way to the 3rd Annual Food Book Fair held at the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The hotel on the corner of the street that bears its name and North 11th has an industrial sophistication with modern nuances throughout--lending itself to the atmosphere of the fair.

Upon entrance I was immediately greeted by the hotel's friendly and warm staff, who directed me to the Pop Up Book Shop near the back of the hotel. I came across a table simply spread with pamphlets and magazines and adjacent was the small, but comprehensive bookstore. After scanning the shelves I slipped downstairs and managed to catch the tail end of the Food Enterprise: Pitch Competition. Designed to bring aspiring food entrepreneurs in front of a panel to 'dish it out' for the grand prize was educative. I'd recommend it to any who'd like the feedback of judges who champion local food.

In collaboration with the Umami Festival the Opening Night Event: Food+Growing+Music started late in the evening, but was well worth the wait. After fresh lemongrass vodka infused cocktails were served at the bar by Lighthouse, it began with performances by work-song musicians Bennett Konesni and Edith Gawler of the Sylvester Manor Educational Farm. Their easy excitement bled into their set of audience participatory generational music. They brought tunes like a long island fiddle or swedish dance as their stark 'cut-out' outwork painted an alive stillness on the wall behind them. The music performed--largely from New York-- seemed borne of the earth and sung by ancestors who connected with the tapestry of food, art, and culture.

Then came the food where Chef Anne Apparu, originally from Corsica, France, with help of Quinciple, who sourced the ingredients, and Feastly provided the menu. More of a tasting, then a meal, I'd imagine it's where the raw foodist and the meatavore can partake side by side without judging each other. Quality ingredients soured locally were at the heart of the menu which starred lamb sausage with baked apples, sautéed burdock and carrots with curry leaf, and earthy mixed greens. All of this was served with your choice of beer provided by Brooklyn Brewery. In the dining room were interactive installations from artist Leah Gauthier yet, they were lost among the crowd in the dimly lit room. However, I found a prized few of her oil infused stones and herb scented sachets meant to reconnect with the natural world.

Though I would suggest next year a different venue large enough to support the wealth that is 'food as a medium', it was no less an enjoyable experience. And I'd say many thought the same, with the many citibikes parked outside and the bustle inside the hotel--you'll be in good company. Come by this fair, it makes for an easy afternoon. Through April 27, foodbookfair.com. (Photo Courtesy Liz Clayman)