Culinary Futures and Cultural Reflections: A New Era in Dining and Storytelling
May 30, 2025, 5:06 am
In a world where culinary innovation and cultural representation are more crucial than ever, two recent events have emerged as beacons of change. Unilever Food Solutions’ Future Menus 2025 in Bangkok and Kunda Kids’ mission in London highlight the importance of creativity, diversity, and the power of storytelling. Both initiatives redefine their respective landscapes, pushing boundaries and inviting fresh perspectives.
Unilever Food Solutions hosted the Future Menus 2025 event in Bangkok, gathering over 330 chefs and food service experts. The theme, "Unleash the Taste of Asia," set the stage for a culinary revolution. The event showcased four key trends that are reshaping the dining experience.
First, there’s Street Food Couture. This trend elevates street food into the realm of fine dining. Imagine spicy fermented salmon salad nestled in a pani puri shell. It’s a dance of flavors, a celebration of boldness. Then, Culinary Roots takes center stage. This trend honors heritage flavors, with dishes like Arsik Ikan Fish from Indonesia and Nasi Lemak from Malaysia. These meals tell stories of culture and tradition, reminding diners of their roots.
Next comes Borderless Cuisine. This trend blends global influences, creating a tapestry of tastes. Picture Beef Pares Style Tacos from the Philippines or Green Peppercorn "Tigermilk" from Singapore. It’s a culinary passport, inviting diners to explore the world through their plates. Finally, Diner Designed focuses on personalization. Here, the experience is tailored to individual preferences, transforming dining into a bespoke adventure.
But it’s not just about the food. The event emphasized the role of data in modern dining. Entrepreneurs shared insights on optimizing restaurant operations and enhancing customer experiences. Data is the compass guiding chefs through the ever-evolving landscape of consumer preferences.
The event culminated in a stunning four-course dinner, a culinary finale that showcased the trends discussed. It was a feast for the senses, a testament to the creativity and innovation at play. The Managing Director of Unilever Food Solutions SEA Mainland described the event as a platform for visionaries to exchange ideas. It’s a space where culinary dreams take flight.
Meanwhile, in London, Kunda Kids is rewriting the narrative for children’s media. Co-founder Louisa Olafuyi didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur. Yet, in the wake of a global racial reckoning and the birth of her son, she found her calling. The absence of stories celebrating African culture sparked a fire within her. She and her husband began crafting their own tales, leading to the birth of Kunda Kids.
Their mission is clear: to center African heritage in a way that is modern and accessible. They aim to create a mirror for children, allowing them to see themselves in the stories they read. The first print run of their storybooks sold 10,000 copies in weeks, a testament to the demand for representation.
However, the journey hasn’t been easy. Access to capital for Black-led businesses in the UK is limited. Olafuyi faced challenges head-on, viewing them as opportunities. Instead of conforming to traditional publishing models, Kunda Kids reimagined them. They built a platform that welcomes diversity, creating a space for stories that resonate globally.
London’s melting pot of cultures has influenced Kunda Kids’ creative DNA. Their stories reflect this diversity, exploring themes of identity and belonging. One title, "Afam and the New Yam Festival," captures the essence of Igbo traditions while addressing universal themes. It’s a reminder that stories can bridge gaps and foster understanding.
Olafuyi’s background in brand innovation and culturally driven content has equipped her with the tools to navigate this landscape. Listening is her superpower. She prioritizes feedback, ensuring that her content remains relevant and resonant. The heart of Kunda Kids lies in culture—how it’s made and who it represents.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Olafuyi offers sage advice: start small but think big. The journey is fraught with challenges, but clarity of purpose is essential. Surround yourself with those who challenge you, not just those who cheer for you. It’s a call to action for those ready to carve their own paths.
Both Unilever Food Solutions and Kunda Kids are redefining their industries. They are not just responding to trends; they are shaping the future. Culinary innovation and cultural representation are intertwined, creating a rich tapestry of experiences.
As the world evolves, so too must our narratives. The dining table and the storybook are powerful platforms for change. They can inspire, educate, and unite. In this new era, creativity knows no bounds. It’s a time to embrace diversity, celebrate heritage, and foster connections.
The future is bright, filled with flavors and stories waiting to be told. The culinary landscape is a canvas, and each dish is a brushstroke. The world of children’s media is a stage, and every story is a performance. Together, they create a symphony of innovation and representation.
In this dance of progress, we are all invited to partake. Let us savor the flavors and embrace the stories that shape our world. The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.
Unilever Food Solutions hosted the Future Menus 2025 event in Bangkok, gathering over 330 chefs and food service experts. The theme, "Unleash the Taste of Asia," set the stage for a culinary revolution. The event showcased four key trends that are reshaping the dining experience.
First, there’s Street Food Couture. This trend elevates street food into the realm of fine dining. Imagine spicy fermented salmon salad nestled in a pani puri shell. It’s a dance of flavors, a celebration of boldness. Then, Culinary Roots takes center stage. This trend honors heritage flavors, with dishes like Arsik Ikan Fish from Indonesia and Nasi Lemak from Malaysia. These meals tell stories of culture and tradition, reminding diners of their roots.
Next comes Borderless Cuisine. This trend blends global influences, creating a tapestry of tastes. Picture Beef Pares Style Tacos from the Philippines or Green Peppercorn "Tigermilk" from Singapore. It’s a culinary passport, inviting diners to explore the world through their plates. Finally, Diner Designed focuses on personalization. Here, the experience is tailored to individual preferences, transforming dining into a bespoke adventure.
But it’s not just about the food. The event emphasized the role of data in modern dining. Entrepreneurs shared insights on optimizing restaurant operations and enhancing customer experiences. Data is the compass guiding chefs through the ever-evolving landscape of consumer preferences.
The event culminated in a stunning four-course dinner, a culinary finale that showcased the trends discussed. It was a feast for the senses, a testament to the creativity and innovation at play. The Managing Director of Unilever Food Solutions SEA Mainland described the event as a platform for visionaries to exchange ideas. It’s a space where culinary dreams take flight.
Meanwhile, in London, Kunda Kids is rewriting the narrative for children’s media. Co-founder Louisa Olafuyi didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur. Yet, in the wake of a global racial reckoning and the birth of her son, she found her calling. The absence of stories celebrating African culture sparked a fire within her. She and her husband began crafting their own tales, leading to the birth of Kunda Kids.
Their mission is clear: to center African heritage in a way that is modern and accessible. They aim to create a mirror for children, allowing them to see themselves in the stories they read. The first print run of their storybooks sold 10,000 copies in weeks, a testament to the demand for representation.
However, the journey hasn’t been easy. Access to capital for Black-led businesses in the UK is limited. Olafuyi faced challenges head-on, viewing them as opportunities. Instead of conforming to traditional publishing models, Kunda Kids reimagined them. They built a platform that welcomes diversity, creating a space for stories that resonate globally.
London’s melting pot of cultures has influenced Kunda Kids’ creative DNA. Their stories reflect this diversity, exploring themes of identity and belonging. One title, "Afam and the New Yam Festival," captures the essence of Igbo traditions while addressing universal themes. It’s a reminder that stories can bridge gaps and foster understanding.
Olafuyi’s background in brand innovation and culturally driven content has equipped her with the tools to navigate this landscape. Listening is her superpower. She prioritizes feedback, ensuring that her content remains relevant and resonant. The heart of Kunda Kids lies in culture—how it’s made and who it represents.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Olafuyi offers sage advice: start small but think big. The journey is fraught with challenges, but clarity of purpose is essential. Surround yourself with those who challenge you, not just those who cheer for you. It’s a call to action for those ready to carve their own paths.
Both Unilever Food Solutions and Kunda Kids are redefining their industries. They are not just responding to trends; they are shaping the future. Culinary innovation and cultural representation are intertwined, creating a rich tapestry of experiences.
As the world evolves, so too must our narratives. The dining table and the storybook are powerful platforms for change. They can inspire, educate, and unite. In this new era, creativity knows no bounds. It’s a time to embrace diversity, celebrate heritage, and foster connections.
The future is bright, filled with flavors and stories waiting to be told. The culinary landscape is a canvas, and each dish is a brushstroke. The world of children’s media is a stage, and every story is a performance. Together, they create a symphony of innovation and representation.
In this dance of progress, we are all invited to partake. Let us savor the flavors and embrace the stories that shape our world. The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.