In the bustling city of Chicago, foodies and culture enthusiasts alike had the chance to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. The Field Museum, a renowned institution dedicated to natural history and science education, joined forces with Leo Burnett, a leading creative agency, to bring a tantalizing experience to the city’s vibrant food scene.
Enter Blood Appétit – a month-long celebration that invited diners to indulge in dishes featuring a distinctive ingredient: blood. From savory to sweet, participating restaurants showcased their creativity and culinary expertise by incorporating blood into their menus, offering patrons a truly unique gastronomic experience.
At the heart of Blood Appétit was the Field Museum’s captivating exhibition, Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches. This immersive showcase delved into the fascinating world of creatures that rely on blood for sustenance, exploring both real-life species and mythical legends. From bloodthirsty vampires to tiny leeches, the exhibition offered visitors a glimpse into the diverse adaptations and survival strategies of these remarkable organisms.
To complement the exhibition, the Field Museum partnered with local restaurants to craft special dishes inspired by the theme of blood. Each participating eatery put its own spin on the concept, resulting in a diverse array of culinary creations that showcased the versatility of blood as an ingredient.
Among the standout participants was Mott Street, a beloved hotspot known for its innovative Asian-American cuisine. Executive Chef Edward Kim and his team whipped up inventive dishes that married bold flavors with the rich, iron-infused taste of blood. From blood sausage dumplings to decadent chocolate-blood desserts, Mott Street’s offerings were a feast for the senses.
Meanwhile, Taqueria Chingon brought a Latin twist to the table with their blood-infused tacos and cocktails, tantalizing taste buds with a fusion of savory and spicy flavors. At Frontier, Chef Brian Jupiter wowed diners with his expertly crafted dishes, showcasing his culinary prowess and earning rave reviews from patrons.
Beyond indulging in delectable dishes, diners who participated in Blood Appétit received a special treat – a discount code to experience the Bloodsuckers exhibition at the Field Museum. This unique synergy between gastronomy and culture allowed guests to deepen their appreciation for the natural world while savoring the flavors of Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene.
Published in February 2024, Blood Appétit captured the imagination of Chicagoans and visitors alike, drawing attention to the intersection of food, science, and culture. Through a blend of creative marketing and experiential engagement, the campaign brought newfound excitement to the Field Museum’s exhibition, enticing guests to embark on a journey of discovery and delight.
As patrons savored each bite and explored the captivating world of bloodsucking creatures, Blood Appétit proved to be more than just a dining experience – it was a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and the endless possibilities that await when art, science, and gastronomy collide.
