5k menus from the New York Public Library’s Buttolph Collection (1880-1920) (pudding.cool)

Article summary

The New York Public Library's Buttolph Collection contains over 5,000 menus from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These menus provide a glimpse into the dining experiences of the past, with many dishes and presentation styles still familiar today. The collection is notable for its historical significance and the insight it offers into the culinary habits of the time. The menus are now available for viewing, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of food and dining.

Main themes

• Historical menus
• Culinary evolution
• Dining experiences
• Food culture
• Restaurant history
• Menu design

What commenters say

• The menus show that many dining experiences and dishes have remained relatively unchanged over time, with some restaurants still serving similar food today.
• The use of QR codes in modern restaurants is seen as a negative trend by some, who prefer traditional printed menus for their aesthetic and social value.
• The collection highlights the importance of considering both the similarities and differences between past and present lifestyles, rather than focusing solely on the similarities.
• Some commenters disagree about the prevalence of QR codes in European restaurants, with some claiming they are common and others arguing they are rare.
• The menus reveal interesting historical details, such as the popularity of certain ingredients like oysters and celery, which were valued for their nutritional benefits.
• The design and printing of historical menus are of interest to some, with modern fonts and printing techniques being compared to those used in the past.
• The collection sparks discussion about the impact of historical events, such as overfishing and pollution, on the availability and popularity of certain foods.
• Some commenters appreciate the opportunity to explore the collection and learn about the history of restaurants and food culture.