Welcome to the May edition of Food & Culture Tidbits—a monthly round-up of discoveries that celebrate how we gather, eat, and share stories.
At Eyestorm, we’re always exploring how food and storytelling can spark connection and creativity. This month, I’m sharing a few favorites—from a thoughtful book on how we come together, to a spicy find from Peru, to a grandmother-powered restaurant making waves on Netflix. There’s even a sweet treat we now keep stocked for gifting (and snacking).
As always, I hope something here brings a little inspiration to your inbox—and your table.
A Must-Read: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker If you’ve ever planned a dinner, a meeting, or even a simple get-together and wondered how to make it more meaningful, this book is for you. In The Art of Gathering, facilitator and podcast host Priya Parker explores how we come together—and how we can do it better. With warmth and insight, she challenges routine and convention, offering a human-centered approach to gatherings that spark connection and purpose. Whether you're hosting a small supper or a large event, this book will shift the way you think about your next invite.
In a BBC interview with Katty Kay, chef and bestselling author Yotam Ottolenghi reflects on how food became his language of connection. Originally drawn to philosophy, he found academia isolating—and discovered in cooking a space for play, purpose, and togetherness. Inspired by his parents’ home cooking, Ottolenghi now invites the world into his vibrant, global kitchen through cookbooks and simple, flavor-forward meals. His mission? To make cooking joyful, accessible, and deeply human. “Food is a language everyone understands,” he says—and his work proves it.
I first discovered Tari at last year’s Summer Fancy Food Show in New York, and it immediately stood out. Made with authentic Peruvian peppers like ají amarillo and rocoto, these sauces deliver vibrant flavor with just the right amount of heat.
With standout varieties like Zesty Verde (with huacatay), Tropical Kick, and Smoky Heat, Tari brings bold, layered flavor to everyday meals—and it’s catching on. Already being distributed in specialty markets across the U.S., this hot sauce is one to watch (and taste).
Introduced to us by a great friend, Berger Cookies quickly became a household favorite—and now we know why they’ve had a cult following since the 1800s. Originating in Baltimore and inspired by German baking traditions, these thick, cake-like cookies are smothered in rich, fudge-like chocolate icing.
Still family-owned and baked with care by DeBaufre Bakeries, Berger’s has turned a local treat into a national obsession. We ordered the Original 15oz Pack online, and they were gone in a flash. Soft, sweet, and unapologetically indulgent—this one’s for serious cookie lovers.
What if your favorite home-cooked meal came with a side of cultural preservation? Nonnas, a new Netflix film inspired by the real Enoteca Maria in Staten Island, tells the heartwarming (and occasionally chaotic) story of a restaurant where grandmothers from around the world cook their family recipes each night.
Founded by Jody Scaravella as a tribute to his own mother and grandmother, Enoteca Maria isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a global table where culture, memory, and comfort food come together. The film stars Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, and Talia Shire, and brings this intergenerational, international dream to life.
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At Eyestorm, we’re always exploring new ways to tell meaningful stories, celebrate culture, and spark connection—whether through strategy, design, or shared experiences around the table.
If something in this newsletter resonated with you—or you have a favorite book, dish, or podcast to share—I’d love to hear from you. Just hit reply.
Until next time, keep savoring the stories behind every bite.
