Crossing Tables

#1: Legacy of Rice

Migration brings people, ideas and flavours together. It’s how new traditions take shape – including around the table. Crossing Tables explores stories through food. The first edition centres on one shared ingredient found across the globe: rice.

Through a dining experience centring around the foodways of rice from Africa to the Caribbean, we will learn about African rice, or Oryza glaberrima, the erasure of African agricultural heritage and the knowledge excluded from our history books around this commodity.

During the event, we will have two carefully curated courses using the ancient and long-forgotten African rice grain. Interactive elements will be incorporated throughout the evening, encouraging participants to ask: "Where does my food come from, and what role did enslaved Africans play in bringing it to my table?"

About the partner

Atelier Code Noir

Atelier Code Noir offers a different perspective on our food system – one that is fairer, more conscious, and rooted in historical awareness. Through dinners, talks and workshops, they build a vibrant community of food lovers, local residents and curious minds. Their work raises awareness and fosters connection, using food as a powerful tool for storytelling and change.