ABSTRACT
Research suggests that play is an influential factor in the eating experience. Yet, playing with food remains a common taboo. We explore ways that eating and play might unfold in gastronomic restaurants. We review current practices and conduct mixed-method interviews with a range of stakeholders, using the PLEX framework for playful interactions to identify limitations of current approaches, as well as opportunities to take the convergence of gastronomy and play further. Our findings point to four design opportunities to extend playfulness in gastronomy: (1) eliciting play beyond surprise and make-believe; (2) facilitating socialization through emergent forms of play; (3) using common eating rituals as inspiration for gastronomy; and (4) using play to enhance degustation. Our contribution extends understanding of the potential of playful gastronomy for chefs and restauranteurs, by positing new experiences for diners.
