Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
In this fascinating book, Alex Rhys-Taylor offers a ground-breaking sensory ethnography of East London. Drawing on a multicultural context in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, he explores concepts such as gentrification, class antagonism, new ethnicities and globalization. Each of the eight chapters combines micro histories of ingredients such as fried chicken, bush-meat and curry sauce with narratives from individuals, providing a unique, engaging account of the evolution of taste and culture through time and space.
From the fiery chillies sold by London street grocers, which are linked to years of cultural exchange, through 'cuisines of origin' like jellied eels to hybridized dishes such as the chicken katsu wrap, sensory experiences are key to understanding the complex cultural genealogies of this city and its social life. With its innovative methodology, this is a highly original contribution to the fields of sensory studies, food studies, urban studies and cultural studies.