Foodtastic on Disney+ proves that food art is stunningly magical

While Disney knows how to capture magical moments both on and off the screen, the new series Foodtastic on Disney+ proves that art is not limited to a canvas and a paint brush. As each episode explores a different Disney theme, like Star Wars or Beauty and the Beast, a group of food artists create an edible fantasy scene that has people staring in disbelief.

Hosted by Keke Palmer, each episode mixes the Disney fantasy into the food world. Amirah Kassem (FLOUR SHOP) and Chef Benny Rivera (NYC’s City Cakes) join Palmer as the food experts. While at first blush many people might think that this program is another food competition, it is far from it.

During a recent conversation with Kassem and Rivera, the pair shared some insight on the upcoming series. From appreciating the emotion to understanding the story, those ingredients were just as important as food to a successful display.

While these Foodtastic “foodscapes” might seem like part of a fantasy world, Kassem believe that the unique nature of the show, more than sweets on a display, plays off the Disney wonder. From vegetables to even butter, these teams find creative ways to bring all food off the table and turn it into edible art. As the teams weave the story into food, everyone is in awe what items created that fantasy piece of art.

Kassem goes on to explain that the most successful displays are more than just strong artistic and structural technique. As she said, someone can have the best Simba but if it doesn’t have the heart, the display is missing some of that Disney magic.

Riveria believes that there is an “extra level to challenge that the contestants have to consider.” Disney characters have a specific aesthetic. There is no personal interpretation of that iconic image. Even though they have to use their imagination to make the scene believable in the Disney world, it cannot stray too far away from the classic character imagery.

Continuing that train of thought, Riveria shared that the contestants must balance imagination within the classic tale. Specifically saying, the team cannot “have that character doing certain things that they would never do in Disney World” story. Riveria mentioned that he struggled when he saw teams pushing the boundaries too far.

Kassem agreed that “keeping with the character in character.” is key in all these Foodtastic displays. She believes that it quite important for the characters to be both “physically and emotionally” part of a feasible storyline. When a character is totally out of character, it is visually askew.

If this little taste of the conversation with Kassem and Riveria piqued your interest about Foodtastic. Be sure to watch Disney+ starting December 15 for the streaming episodes.

Which Disney character would you like to see turned into a fantastic foodscape?