Today’s dinner table might be characterized by the fusion of fresh ingredients, as well as a reliance on tech for finding recipes or snapping photos of picture-perfect plates. Of course, family meals weren’t always so modern! In today’s blog, we will be exploring the unique dinner trends that have pervaded (and faded) throughout America’s history.
Industrial changes
Today, dinner takes center stage—it’s typically the biggest and most complex meal of the day, when we kick back and relax after a long day. However, before the industrial revolution took over and changed our daily behaviors, an afternoon meal we would now probably call lunch was much more important. It was the meal for entertaining friends or enjoying something especially substantial—however, when patriarchs started working even longer days, less focus was placed on this afternoon meal, and more effort went into preparing an evening meal—today’s dinner—that would often serve as a “summing up” of the day’s events.
A return to conventionality…
Wartime was naturally a stressful time for the American family—so after the Second World War, people wanted to return to simple, predictable and conventional lives. A large part of this meant enjoying conflict-free family dinners, typically prepared with care and attention by women who were reassuming their roles at home. Casseroles and other family-friendly dinners pervaded throughout this time.
Of course, once in a while the family would gather around a marvel of the time—the TV set—with a premade TV dinner, heated up to perfection.
…and convenience
The TV dinner was steering Americans toward complete, convenient meals that needed only to be heated up to be enjoyed—but as the microwave made its way onto the scene, even simpler, quicker meals were possible. As more Americans brought these novel devices into their homes, especially throughout the eighties, microwaveable meals rose in popularity. Quick meals like Sloppy Joes also were prime picks for busy families.
Modern innovations
While there will always be room for classically simple dishes, social media (as well as recipes and food info available at the touch of a button) has paved the way for trendy, health-conscious consumers who want to know what’s on their plate.
Which dinnertime decade is your favorite—the simplicity of 1950s TV dinners, perhaps, or the convenience of an eighties Sloppy Joe? Be sure to let us know!
Of course, if you’re looking for a modern day dinner that blends together the best of innovative flavors and tried-and-true classics, look no further than Stonewood Grill &Tavern!
Make tonight extraordinary! Each of our 12 Stonewood locations has its own unique community flair—but they all commit to the same excellence in fine ingredients and kitchen expertise. Find a Location and be sure to Sign Up for our E-Club for news and special offers!
