For nearly five months, The National Gallery of Art presented Paris 1864: The Impressionist Moment, providing a captivating glimpse into a vibrant era where art and culture flourished. The Gallery showcased beloved paintings by Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet, Berthe Morisot, and Camille Pissarro and embraced the cultural richness of the time through a carefully curated culinary experience. This thoughtful integration of food and art enhanced the overall experience, bridging the gap between the two facets of culture in a way that's both innovative and memorable.
To take guests on a culinary tour through Paris, Sodexo Live! prepared a menu of savory and sweet dishes and refreshing beverages inspired by Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment. During the exhibition's run, the limited-time specials were available at the Garden Café and Cascade Café during the exhibition's. For Sodexo Live!, bringing this culinary experience to life relied heavily on collaboration with the client. Historical experts, regional chefs, and onsite culinary staff worked hand in hand to craft a menu that would resonate with visitors. Chef George and Executive Chef Mahmood played pivotal roles in developing dishes that were authentic to the period and appealing to contemporary tastes.
The menu included classic French dishes like ratatouille, a traditional Provençal dish originating from Nice, a significant center at the crossroads of artistic development in the 19th century, to a jambon beurre, a crispy, freshly baked baguette filled with ham and rich, creamy butter with a history that dates back to Paris's Les Halles market in the 19th century.
During the exhibition, attendance skyrocketed. As the exhibit's attendance increased, so did food sales, reflecting a growing interest in the overall experience. Key features like call-out boxes in printed menus highlight the culinary offerings inspired by the exhibit, enhancing the connection between culinary and visual art. This attention to detail creates an engaging narrative, inviting visitors to explore the art and feed their appetites in a culturally immersive environment.
"Ten percent of our retail revenue came from our specialty Paris 1874 menu alone," explained Beth Williamson, Sodexo Live! Regional Vice President. "We saw a 44% revenue increase versus this same period in 2023. It's clear these special touches really resonate with guests. The extra steps of researching and collaborating with our clients on special events and exhibits are successful in terms of sales and enhancing the guest experience."