The world is pretty darn messed up. I think it probably always was — it’s just a question of scale these days. What gets me by (other than massive amounts of exercise and a bit of vino to take the edge off)? I love learning about really cool projects that are trying to educate and break down some of these global barriers we erect. My latest find comes via AlterNet — the Conflict Kitchen.

I’ve written before about the “Pay What You Want” cafe model, which I’m totally inspired by. Conflict Kitchen in Pittsburgh is unique in that it has a rotating menu serving foods from countries that the U.S. is currently in conflict with (I know what you’re thinking — damn extensive menu, eh?). But wait, it gets better than just having access to yummy foods from places like North Korea and Iran. The folks at Conflict Kitchen serve the food up with a bit of education. According to their website:

Each Conflict Kitchen iteration will be augmented by events, performances, and discussion about the culture, politics, and issues at stake with each county we focus on.

Currently, Conflict Kitchen is serving up Iranian food, and has developed the food packaging and messaging in collaboration with the Iranian community in Pittsburgh. Recently, Conflict Kitchen held a live skype meal between Pittsburgh and Tehran. Each city prepared the same recipes and held an international dinner party. Now that’s my kind of evening!

Post originally appeared on Folks Gotta Eat.

Melanie Redman

Melanie Redman

Melanie Redman is a Social Mission Collaborator with more than 10 years of direct experience in strategic, leadership and advisory roles across the social mission sector in the U.S. and Canada. She...