University of Wisconsin–Madison

England: Kinzie Carlson (Food in London)

Food in London

People wander around a street lined with shops, covered by a glass roof. Lights and a variety of colored lanterns hang above the street.
This is my class at Brixton Village, I loved the lanterns!

This semester, I had the opportunity to take class titled “Food, Culture, and Society,” and it was spectacular. While I experienced a lot of new cuisines last semester, like authentic Indian food, hand made pasta, Jamaican food, and British afternoon tea, this class introduced me to how food has shaped our world – and made me laugh.

During the course, we took a field trip to a borough called Brixton to learn about how food has played a huge role in the development of the community. We visited Brixton Village, which is an indoor market that has loads of food options from all around the world. Not only was it a gorgeous interior, the people in the market were very kind too.

A paper box contains a two-tiered pastry with yellow frosting.
My meringue pie (before the top fell on the floor)

At this market, I got a lemon meringue mini pie, and was quite excited to eat it. We were listened to the tour guide discuss how immigrants make up this diverse neighborhood, which has contributed to the large number of cuisines available. I was very excited to try the pie, so I attempted to be as subtle as possible. Unfortunately, two bites in, my entire meringue topping slow-motion dropped, landing right side up on the ground. While I was embarrassed (and a little upset), this is one of many moments where my experience with food in London has made me smile.

A half of a waffle, covered in chicken, tomatoes, greens, and drizzled with a white sauce.
My favorite order from Udder Waffle, the gluten free chicken and waffle place.

Brixton is also home to a restaurant that the entire Global Launch group has visited to celebrate multiple birthdays – which is one of my favorite restaurants in London. It serves gluten free chicken and waffles that are absolutely delightful.

One thing I’ve enjoyed about the program in London, is that not only do I get to learn in a culturally rich environment, but I also have great food, laughs, and friends.

 

Kinzie smiles, wearing a turtleneck, in front of a plain white background.

Kinzie Carlson 

Major: Political Science & History

Hometown: Owatonna, Minnesota