Welcome to the July edition of Food & Culture TidBits—a monthly round-up of discoveries that celebrate how we gather, cook, learn, and tell stories.
This month’s picks are filled with texture—handmade pasta and cheese tastings, heartfelt political art, flavors that stir memory, and books that explore food as resistance and identity. From a restaurant we’ve loved to an upcoming talk with two writers we admire, July’s discoveries celebrate food not only as pleasure—but as power, memory, and voice.
As always, I hope something here brings a little inspiration to your inbox—and your table.
Food as Resistance: The Last Sweet Bite at MOFAD
Join Michael Shaikh, author and human rights investigator, in conversation with Eric Kim (NYT writer and cookbook author) as they explore how food can be a form of resilience and resistance in communities facing cultural erasure. The event, hosted by MOFAD, promises depth, storytelling, and big questions.
Thursday, August 14 | Museum of Food and Drink, Brooklyn RSVP for the event
Familiar Face: Eric Kim of The Dinner Plan
If the name Eric Kim sounds familiar, it’s likely because he’s not only a New York Times food writer and bestselling author—but also a recurring guest on the charming podcast The Dinner Plan. In a recent episode, he shares his go-to weeknight meals, thoughts on cooking with joy (not obligation), and how he finds delight in simplicity: “How little work can I put into just every situation?” It’s honest, funny, and full of kitchen inspiration.
A Hands-On Favorite: Pasta & Cheese Class at Murray’s
We recently joined the Pasta Making & Cheese Tasting class at Murray’s Cheese, and it was just as fun and flavorful as it sounds. Over 90 minutes, we learned how to make pasta dough, explored cheese pairings, sipped wine, and shaped pasta to take home. A standout from the store? The Meredith Dairy Marinated Feta—spreadable, garlicky, herby, and deeply satisfying.
Imported from Australia, this sheep and goat cheese is creamy, herbaceous, and packed in olive oil with garlic and spices. We loved it stirred into hot pasta, but it’s equally at home on a cracker or baguette.
NYC Restaurant Week is back (July 21–Aug 17), and we’re headed to Ilili, a modern Lebanese spot that holds a special place in our hearts. The name Ililimeans “tell me,” and it invites warm conversation and flavorful dishes. For our DC friends, there’s a new location too!
Spotlight Exhibit: Worm by Edel Rodriguez at the Society of Illustrators
Running through October, Worm: A Cuban American Odyssey showcases the life and art of illustrator Edel Rodriguez—from his childhood escape from Cuba to his rise as one of today’s most influential political artists. The exhibit includes powerful artwork from his graphic memoir, magazine covers, posters, and rare artifacts.
Service Spotlight: Storytelling at the Intersection of Food, Culture, and Community
We partner with brands and organizations to bring ideas to life through compelling storytelling, custom solutions, and strategy. From editorial content to creative campaigns, our work is grounded in cultural insight and designed to spark connection, inspire action, and support meaningful growth.
At Eyestorm, we’re always exploring new ways to tell meaningful stories, celebrate culture, and spark connection—through strategy, design, and the universal language of food.
If something in this issue resonated—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.