People are craving comfort. Amid what can feel like a state of constant crisis – a layering of traumatic societal events – it can sometimes seem like we’ve lost a sense of scale and cohesion. In the face of this, the desire to retreat into nostalgia is more seductive than ever.

The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

A report by Waitrose has found that cost of living pressures have driven a return to cosy and comforting dishes in British kitchens. The culinary shift reflects the wider mood of the nation, which is seeking simplicity and control in the face of economic hardship and global instability.

Though their origins trace back to the 15th century, charcuterie boards have had a remarkable comeback over recent years, capturing the hearts – and stomachs – of many Americans. But what is behind their resurgence? And how are brands driving discovery and leveraging this interest?

Intimate supper clubs offer Sydney-siders a way to reconnect with others post-pandemic. Arlo Communal invites strangers to meet over dinner in private spaces. The intimate gatherings highlight modern gastronomy and tasteful living, offering unique approaches to going out and making up for lost time.

Gen Zers in New York are flocking to eat a shared ‘perpetual stew’, an ever-simmering dish made of ingredients brought by those attending. Gen Zers are looking for IRL communities, and many are coming together to celebrate the imperfections in unorthodox creations like the stew.