The hottest Food Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Thanksgiving (27/30)

psychotechnology • 3 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. There is a clear resistance to adopting American holiday customs or learning their origins, as a way to avoid further cultural influence.
  2. Participating in local traditions can feel meaningful and symbolic—becoming a British citizen led to enjoying small rituals like Christmas crackers even while still feeling partly foreign.
  3. Personal connection matters more than formal holidays: reconnecting with an old friend and shared simple moments (like drinking beers) are valued above traditional celebrations, and there's a preference for unconventional holidays like Bicycle Day.

no. 55: color block concrete

let them eat cake • 79 implied HN points • 01 Jun 22
🏝 Travel Food
  1. The author experiences a complex mix of emotions when returning home to Singapore, feeling a blend of homesickness and discomfort.
  2. The newsletter explores the author's culinary adventures in Singapore, particularly enjoying visits to hawker centers.
  3. The author reflects on their journey to separate feelings of homesickness from feelings of discomfort in their home country.

Another day in paradise

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The creative process has two phases: gathering ideas freely and then adding structure to them. It's important to let each phase finish naturally.
  2. Setbacks in habits can be framed positively, like a market 'correction'. This can help you stay mindful and improve your habits.
  3. Experiences can vary wildly, like the contrast between a fancy club dinner and a social dance. These moments show the diverse experiences life offers.

Poll Worker or Poll Dancer

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Bill Gates faced a lot of anger from voters, but he stayed strong during tough times. His decision not to run for reelection shows how much the past elections affected him.
  2. A former poll worker shared her story of stepping up to help after Hurricane Sandy. She felt that young people are needed to improve the voting system in New York.
  3. Little Richard's influence on rock and roll was huge, even if he didn't get much credit. Many famous musicians looked up to him and acknowledged how he shaped their music.
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We see them as we eat them

A Perfectly Cromulent Software Engineer • 19 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food
  1. The pumpkin, like other fruits, holds its true essence and purpose within itself, seen only when consumed.
  2. People often overlook the true nature and beauty of things, such as pumpkins, only seeing them as food items like pies or curry.
  3. This reflection on how we see pumpkins can be applied to how we perceive individuals based on external labels or appearances.

VFYW: Legends Abound

The Weekly Dish • 26 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The VFYW contest features a variety of fun and creative themes, showcasing unique views from windows around the world. It's a great way to spark creativity and engage with a community of puzzle lovers.
  2. Participants share stories and memories tied to their window views, turning the contest into a shared experience. This personal touch adds depth to the entries and makes the contest more enjoyable.
  3. The guessing process for the locations can be challenging but also intriguing. Many people enjoy the detective work involved in figuring out the right answer by analyzing clues from the photos.

VFYW: A Caffeine Temptation

The Weekly Dish • 35 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The current contest theme encourages participants to explore unique and beautiful locations, promoting creativity and the joy of discovery.
  2. Many participants share their personal stories and experiences related to the contest, creating a community feel among players.
  3. The guessing game aspect is fun, with hints and clues leading to various locations, especially in the Western US where Sinclair gas stations are prominent.

Perspectives 2025 in Review

Perspectives • 1 implied HN point • 08 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The community grew a lot in 2025, adding thousands of new readers and connecting people across platforms through shared interests like family, career, and wellbeing.
  2. Practical, human-centered topics resonated most—readers loved guidance on leadership and career (like executive presence), preparing for AI, and heartfelt personal stories about family and resilience.
  3. Collaboration and a distinct creative voice strengthened the work—guest contributors brought fresh perspectives and original hand-illustrations gave the publication a warm, personal look.

Golden Syrup: An Apology

The Heart Attack Diet • 19 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food
  1. Golden Syrup contains only small amounts of sulphites, making it fairly harmless even for those intolerant or allergic to sulphites.
  2. Detailed analysis of Golden Syrup's composition showed it has minimal sulphites, hence not a major concern for health.
  3. Even if someone is sulphite intolerant, consuming Golden Syrup in moderation may not lead to any ill effects.

VFYW: A Glass Pyramid Scheme

The Weekly Dish • 32 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The VFYW contest connects people through shared experiences and memories related to travel and food. It's nice to see how a simple contest can create bonds among participants.
  2. Grief and loss are common themes shared among the community, showing support for each other during tough times. The stories shared help many to cope with their own feelings of loss.
  3. Exploring different US cities through the VFYW contest reveals unique architectural styles and local culture. It's fascinating to see how people's guesses reflect their personal connections and knowledge of places.

Paw paws and networking

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Paw paws are a tasty fruit native to North America, and they make for a nice treat and reminder of home. It's great to feel taken care of by friends and family.
  2. Networking can be tiring but rewarding, as it takes focus to connect with new people. Meeting interesting individuals can spark inspiration and new ideas.
  3. Exploring unique places like the City Museum can be a fun experience without needing to fit it into a specific category or checklist. It's about enjoying the moment and the creativity around you.

Dovran

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Dovran grew up in a rural area of Turkmenistan where his family lived off the land, drinking water from a well and raising various animals for food.
  2. Despite his simple and rural upbringing, Dovran dreams of living in the US and his family is moving there after winning the green card lottery.
  3. Dovran's journey to the US includes attending a community college and eventually transferring to Brandeis, where he found a job at Amazon and supports his family.

Crise de foie

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Celebrating Tally's birthday included a delicious and rich dinner, making it easy to break food rules. The dinner featured fresh ingredients, and the indulgence left the writer feeling unwell afterward.
  2. Kayla, Tally's mom, expressed her love and care, making the writer feel welcomed and supported. Her kindness and family connection provided emotional comfort.
  3. During the sauna conversations, Tally and Orion discussed the idea of desire and escaping from pain. They recognized that facing and feeling their pain is important for personal growth.

Four days without phones

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 19 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The experience of being without phones for four days was challenging and uncomfortable, emphasizing reliance on technology for basic functions like time and navigation.
  2. Spending time without smartphones led to a greater reliance on in-person interactions with strangers for basic needs like directions and recommendations.
  3. Despite initial intentions to disconnect, the allure of smartphones and the convenience they bring made it difficult to make a permanent switch to a simpler phone.

🇲🇨🏎 On your marks. Get set. Monac-GO!

De Nada Nights • 19 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Monaco's history is rich with power struggles and strategic moves for prosperity.
  2. The transformation of Monaco into a prominent state was fueled by innovative economic choices such as establishing casinos.
  3. Monaco's unique tax system, focused on consumption rather than income, has played a key role in its economic success.

Sunday

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Wildfire smoke made it hard to enjoy the sunny day in Seattle. The air quality was poor, so a different activity was chosen instead.
  2. A visit to a climbing gym led to a fun climbing session with a friendly woman. They connected well and exchanged phone numbers after a good time together.
  3. A delicious home-cooked dinner was prepared using fresh garden ingredients. Cooking was a nice change after a busy summer without it.

Feeling good

Ben’s Blog 🏉 🧠🧑‍💻 • 65 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Food
  1. Transitioning from one chapter in life to the next can be exciting and full of new opportunities
  2. Building a strong community and support system can lead to successful events and collaborations
  3. Balancing fun and work while prioritizing self-care elements like rest and exercise can contribute to overall well-being

My Christmas story

The ZIPster • 26 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The Christmas season creates a special atmosphere of warmth and comfort, making it a perfect time for reflection and writing. There’s a soothing silence that feels familiar and inviting as the days lead up to the holiday.
  2. Food plays a big role in Christmas preparations, with favorite treats like nuts, chocolates, and festive cakes being essential. Shopping for special items at the market adds to the excitement and tradition of the season.
  3. Watching Christmas television shows and movies is a cherished activity, even if the options aren't always great. The anticipation of classic comedies and family favorites makes this time of year feel magical.

Something I'm Thankful For...

House of Strauss • 26 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. It's important to take time to be thankful, especially during special seasons like holidays. Being grateful can help us appreciate what we have instead of focusing on what's lacking.
  2. Learning about different cultures can change our perspective on our own lives. For example, seeing how happy the Huli tribe women were to have a meal made me reflect on my own daily experiences.
  3. Asking others what they're thankful for can create meaningful conversations. It's a great way to connect with friends and family during changing times.

VFYW: A Ghost Town For Halloween

The Weekly Dish • 26 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The contest this week features a ghost town theme, highlighting unique and creative submissions from participants. It's a fun way to celebrate the Halloween spirit in a less traditional way.
  2. Participants are encouraged to share their views and guesses, leading to engaging discussions about various locations and experiences. The interchange of thoughts adds to the excitement of the guessing game.
  3. Support for local businesses, like the Vivian restaurant, is emphasized amid recent challenges due to events like hurricanes. Community backing during tough times can lead to a stronger and more resilient local scene.

VFYW: Oh Bloody Run!

The Weekly Dish • 18 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The search for the right Dollar General store is a tricky puzzle. With over 20,000 locations, finding the right one feels like looking for a needle in a haystack.
  2. Many participants enjoy the challenge of these contests and the thrill of connecting with the community. It's more than just a game; it's about sharing fun experiences and interests.
  3. Clues can often come from unexpected places, like the design of buildings or local features. Paying attention to details, like the style of a post office or street lamp, can lead you to the right answer.

France's Hunting Dilemma

Integrity Talk • 66 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Hunting's popularity has decreased in developed countries, but France still has a significant number of active hunters.
  2. Western societies have grown more hostile towards hunting due to societal shifts and increased sensitivity towards animal welfare.
  3. The perception of animal suffering varies depending on the category of animals, leading to inconsistencies in attitudes towards hunting.

fried rice cyborgs

let them eat cake • 19 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food
  1. The author often writes about food and how things are made, like fried rice and farm equipment.
  2. The post mentions a piece in Scope of Work regarding industrial aspects.
  3. Readers can access more content by subscribing and getting a 7-day free trial on the website.

Beautiful and Ordinary

Castles in the Sky • 74 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The author describes a beautiful and ordinary day filled with simple joys and connections.
  2. The day included moments like visiting a farmers' market, attending a birthday party, and playing games with friends.
  3. Gratitude, presence, and appreciation are highlighted as tools to fully enjoy moments and cherish memories.

🕎🍷 Happy Chrismukkah!🍷🕎 🎅🦌🎄☃️

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 13 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Chrismukkah is a fun mix of Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations. It's a unique holiday that brings together traditions from both festivities.
  2. Latkes are a traditional food for Chrismukkah, and there are fun recipes to make them even more tasty. Trying out new recipes can make the holiday feel special.
  3. The emphasis is on positivity during Chrismukkah, avoiding any serious or sad topics. It's a time to enjoy good news and have a cheerful atmosphere with family and friends.

Spring hath Sprung

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 79 implied HN points • 02 Apr 21
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Spring is a time of new growth, like the blooming of camas flowers, which are beautiful but can cause some digestive issues if eaten in large amounts.
  2. Many birds, like black-capped chickadees, are busy building nests, which is an exciting sign of the season's arrival.
  3. Weeds grow quickly in spring, and while they can be seen as a nuisance, they might also play a beneficial role in the ecosystem.

VFYW: Say Hy! To An Easy One

The Weekly Dish • 15 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The latest contest featured a city that many sleuths found easier to identify, thanks in part to recognizable landmarks.
  2. Participants shared their experiences and frustrations in solving previous contests, often expressing regrets for missed guesses.
  3. Community members used various clues from the photos, like hotel signs and architecture, to find the correct location, showcasing their detective skills.

VFYW: Super Bowl Puppies & Poop Rocks

The Weekly Dish • 9 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. People often feel excited and lucky when they win contests, even if they think they didn't try their best. It's nice to feel connected to others through fun activities.
  2. Finding locations can be tricky, especially when many details in a photo can lead you to wrong conclusions. Pay attention to clues like street signs and architectural styles.
  3. Sharing experiences and stories about places can help create a sense of community. Everyone enjoys reminiscing about their travels and the memories they hold.

5 Good Evergreen Podcasts

SatPost by Trung Phan • 31 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🎙 Podcasts Food
  1. There are 5 evergreen podcasts recommended, covering topics like food history, famous explorers, record labels, Vietnam War films, and interesting sounds.
  2. Gastropod podcast delves into food history, while The Explorers Podcast focuses on famous explorers' stories.
  3. Trapital podcast offers insightful business breakdowns of record labels, providing an in-depth analysis of the hip-hop industry.

Seattle

The Carousel • 27 implied HN points • 12 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The post describes a scenic journey through Seattle and surrounding areas.
  2. Seattle's diverse atmosphere and unique culture are highlighted in the text.
  3. The author shares personal experiences exploring various neighborhoods and locations in Seattle.

#2 Food, kintsugi & 'quantums of utility'

Design Lobster • 59 implied HN points • 07 Feb 20
🪑 Design Food
  1. Challenge assumptions to find innovative solutions, like creating food without animals or plants.
  2. Embrace imperfections and turn flaws into features, as seen in the art of Kintsugi.
  3. Focus on solving crucial problems for niche groups, as it can lead to impactful solutions.

#29: Ambient uncertainty, Part 3

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 39 implied HN points • 20 May 20
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Different types of wheat flour can create different levels of uncertainty in cooking, especially when making pizza. Some flours result in more predictable dough, while others can lead to unexpected results.
  2. Working with flours that create unpredictable outcomes can help us become more comfortable with uncertainty in life. Learning to adapt in small situations might prepare us for bigger uncertainties later on.
  3. Accepting that we can't always control outcomes, like dough turning into soup, can be a valuable lesson. It teaches us to respond with flexibility and patience when things don't go as planned.

My Father

Natural Selections • 17 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. The author reflects on her father's life, memories, and impact after his passing.
  2. The father was a strong and adventurous person, eager to teach his children but kept many of his thoughts to himself.
  3. He had a love for nature, mathematics, food, and life, leaving a lasting impression on his family.

#46: Removing buildup

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 19 implied HN points • 16 Sep 20
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. It's better to deal with small amounts of Stuff regularly than to let it pile up. When we let too much accumulate, it becomes overwhelming and hard to manage.
  2. Removing unnecessary routines and clutter can feel freeing. Keeping our lives organized helps us handle stress better, especially during big changes like moving.
  3. Making small, consistent changes in our daily habits can lead to less buildup over time. This makes it easier to adapt to life's uncertainties and maintain balance.

#7: A living order

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 19
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Embracing uncertainty can lead to delightful surprises. Just like the unique flavors of a special wine, being open to unpredictability in life can help create new and exciting experiences.
  2. A living order, like a growing oak tree, cannot be planned out perfectly. It develops through small, unpredictable actions that build on each other over time.
  3. Hiring for creativity and handling uncertainty is becoming more important. Companies should focus on finding candidates who are adaptable and can thrive in changing environments, rather than just looking at traditional qualifications.

Rabbit Holes 🕳 #33

Creative Destruction • 5 implied HN points • 17 May 23
🎭️ Culture Food
  1. Irritation can be a useful tool for reflection and insight, even if it feels annoying and inadequate.
  2. Quantitative aesthetics, focusing on numbers and stats, can overlook important aspects of life and inquiry.
  3. The decline in food diversity due to mass scaling and globalization poses risks to our food systems and resilience.