Are you tired of the same old food shows and movie snacks? Look no further than Stranger Things season 3 for a unique culinary journey.In this season, food takes on a whole new level of importance as it becomes an integral part of the narrative. The show creators have seamlessly woven different types of food throughout the season, giving viewers a glimpse into the culture, social norms, and consumerism of the 1980s. From the new flavors at Scoops Ahoy to the fast-food chain offerings at Starcourt Mall, the show has it all. With such a wide variety of food, there’s something for everyone.
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the most notable food moments from Stranger Things season 3, focusing on the food of Scoops Ahoy, the Starcourt Mall food court, and the less than appetizing dishes such as Billy’s Wharf Rats and Dustin’s love for pudding cups. Get ready to explore the delectable world of Stranger Things season 3 food and find out the story behind each dish in the Upside Down Dining Experience.The food in Stranger Things season 3 is more than just a plot device. The Duffer Brothers have always been obsessed with food and have used it to set the tone and atmosphere of various scenes in the show. Through the food, we get a glimpse into the lives of the characters, their relationships with each other, and the larger context of the world they inhabit. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the show uses food to tell its story and take a closer look at some of the most memorable food moments from Stranger Things season 3.As the latest addition to the retro sci-fi genre, Stranger Things became immensely popular, garnering a cult following and becoming an obsession for many fans. And that obsession extends to food as well. This is why the food in Stranger Things season 3 played a more important role in the story than ever before. The showrunners went out of their way to create food moments that would pique the audience’s curiosity and desire to explore more about the world. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the food moments in season 3 and how they shaped the story.
The Food of Scoops Ahoy
Scoops Ahoy took the world by storm with its nautical theme and delightful ice-cream flavors. The introduction of the new parlor had fans excited for the new season and it didn’t disappoint. The establishment was owned by Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley who sported the iconic sailor suits and made every scoop of ice cream seem like a trip to the seaside. Scoops Ahoy’s incorporation into the plot was skillful and its themes were able to transcend the screen and make their way into real-life, with many fans showing their love for it by donning the ice-cream parlor’s exclusive merch.
Some of the new flavors introduced by Scoops Ahoy included the Cherry Chunk, which was fondly dubbed the “Queen of the Docks,” for its cherry-heavy flavor; and then there was the Mint Chocolate Chip, the classic ice cream with a fresh twist. But the real star of the show was the Mind Flayer Sundae that was so psychedelic it could give you a mind-numbing brain freeze. The visual showed a colorful sundae that had a swirl of four colors – red, yellow, blue, and purple that represented the chaotic and menacing nature of the Mind Flayer. The creation was a nod to the show’s horror genre while still being a fun dessert option that the characters could enjoy—in a parallel universe, of course.When it comes to Scoops Ahoy, the employees’ outfits are hard to miss. With the red and white uniforms, Steve and Robin’s sailor hats paired with their matching white gloves fashioned the perfect ensemble that made them seem like they were part of a storybook. The candy-striper look was popular in the 80s but was given a unique twist with the blue vest donned by Robin. The duo had chemistry on-screen that translated well with their impeccable uniforms which made them some of our favorite characters in the show. Overall, Scoops Ahoy’s contribution to the setting of Stranger Things season 3 was integral and its imaginative take on ice cream was one of the highlights of the season.
Starcourt Mall Food Court
It’s not just the characters and their uniforms that have captured the viewers’ hearts, but also the environment of Scoops Ahoy. The ice cream parlor had a vintage feel with the iconic neon “Scoops Ahoy” sign that was pasted right outside it. The parlor’s interior was also decorated with an array of nautical-themed items such as anchor-shaped trash cans, boats hanging from the ceiling, and a fishnet that was draped over the counter. The ambiance made Scoops Ahoy feel like a charming seaside hangout spot and even made us feel a bit closer to our favorite Stranger Things characters. The establishment may have been short-lived but the impression it made was long-lasting.
In addition to the unique flavors and immersive environment, Scoops Ahoy also played a significant role in the season’s storyline. It served as the backdrop for some intense scenes, like when the Russian guards are chasing Steve and Dustin through the mall. It was also the place where Steve and Robin discover that Russians are building a secret base underneath the mall. The ice cream parlor was a place where the characters could catch up on their gossip, reflect on their lives, and even get into a few brawls. The conversations that were had within its walls offered us a better insight into the characters’ emotions and motivations, and sometimes even hinted at what was to come. The popularity of Scoops Ahoy served as a testament to both the Duffer Brothers’ creative vision and the audience’s appreciation for the quality narrative. Scoops Ahoy may have bid us farewell, but its legacy will last for seasons to come.Continuing on the same paragraph, it’s safe to say that Scoops Ahoy had a significant impact on the fans of Stranger Things. Many fans rushed to the shops to get their hands on the exclusive uniforms, with some even trying to recreate the sailor-themed ice cream parlor in their homes. It’s no secret that food plays an important role in the show, and Scoops Ahoy’s incorporation of food, ambiance, and story was seamless. It’s no surprise that fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Scoops Ahoy in the upcoming season. Whether the parlor has a new flavor or the uniforms have a new variation, we can only hope that Scoops Ahoy will be back to serve its unique blend of summer fun and 80s nostalgia for another season.Continuing further on the same paragraph, the introduction of Scoops Ahoy taught us that food can be more than just sustenance. It can be a medium to tell a story, connect with fans on a deeper level, and even add to the setting. By weaving in food into the narrative, the creators can explore different themes and emotions that aren’t just limited to character conversations but can also be used to show character development. The incorporation of food in Stranger Things truly adds to the show’s overall charm and makes it that more enjoyable to watch. Scoops Ahoy and the season’s food lineup deserves their recognition as they have served as a symbol of the show’s creativity and imagination.
Rat Burgers and Other Unappetizing Delights
The Starcourt Mall was definitely one of the highlights of the season, with its futuristic and stylish design, it captured the attention of viewers since its first appearance. The food court located on the top floor of the mall offered a wide variety of options for the hungry shoppers and visitors. The food court was never empty, with crowds gathering around the neon-lit stands.The stands offered food ranging from burgers and fries to Chinese takeout. The exaggerated size of the food portions was a nod to the excessive consumerism of the 1980s. Each stand had its own unique design, and the menu items matched the theme of the stand. The Peach Pit was decorated in neon pink and featured a 50s-style diner menu. The Biscuit Bang had an outer space theme and served dishes like the Starship Sub. Overall, the Starcourt Mall food court was a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
But the Starcourt Mall food court wasn’t just there for aesthetics, it also served as a plot device for the characters. Many important scenes took place at the food court, such as a secret rendezvous between Nancy and Jonathan, and even an intense showdown between Eleven and the Mind Flayer. The mall and its food court provided a central location for the characters to interact and advance the plot. It was also a way for the show creators to reflect on the cultural impact of shopping malls and fast food chains in the 1980s. The show’s use of food in this season was not just about adding to the ambience, but about creating a sense of nostalgia and bringing together the characters in a familiar and relatable setting.Continuing from the last paragraph…
The Starcourt Mall represented the epitome of consumerism in the 80s, with its colorful design and endless food options. The show creators have done an excellent job of using food and the mall’s aesthetic to create a sense of nostalgia and charm that adds depth to the already intriguing show. Whether it’s the over-the-top portion sizes at the food court or the questionable dishes served at other locations, the food in Stranger Things season 3 truly adds to the show’s uniqueness and popularity. The show’s success with viewer engagement is in no small part thanks to the attention to detail in every aspect, including food. Stranger Things season 3’s food is sure to remain etched in our memory, and hopefully, we’ll get to see more of it in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Apart from the fast-food chains at Starcourt Mall, many characters in the show have their own food preferences and habits. For instance, Joyce Byers is seen snacking on chips and drinking Coke throughout the season, which has become an ongoing joke among fans. Dustin, on the other hand, is an avid fan of chocolate pudding cups, and even hides some in his treehouse. Hopper is seen chugging beer in many of his scenes, and Steve’s love for ice cream is evident as he chooses to work at Scoops Ahoy. These food moments might seem insignificant, but they add depth to the characters and allow viewers to relate to them on a personal level. It’s also a way for the creators to showcase how food was an essential part of daily life in the 1980s.
The introduction of new foods and restaurants in Stranger Things season 3 has also led to a rise in fan experiences such as themed pop-ups and events. The Scoops Ahoy pop-up in Los Angeles drew in huge crowds, and they even had a special menu featuring the new ice cream flavors. These experiences allow fans to immerse themselves in the show’s universe and gain a new appreciation for the food used as a storytelling device. The attention to food detail in Stranger Things has not gone unnoticed and has become a significant part of the show’s appeal.
Alongside the fun and nostalgic food moments, Stranger Things season 3 also had some unappetizing and even gross food moments. The most notable among these was the “Billy Burger” at the Hawkins Pool, which was infamously filled with rats. This disgusting revelation caused a buzz among viewers and showcased the show’s willingness to push boundaries in storytelling. Another questionable food moment in season 3 was Alexei’s love for Slurpee’s, which led to a bit of a running gag.
Despite being gross or less than appetizing, these food moments were an integral part of the show’s narrative, and they added to the grittiness of the world-building. The Duffers’ obsession with food allowed the show to go beyond just being a mere sci-fi thriller and develop unique and strange storylines that create a lasting impact on audiences.In addition to the questionable food moments in season 3, the show also used food as a way to reflect the cultural and political themes of the 1980s. For example, the show’s portrayal of the small-town living allowed for the integration of local diners and fast-food chains. The nostalgic food moments, such as the commercial jingles of Coca-Cola and the neon lights of the food court, showcased a time of excess and consumerism that influenced an entire generation. Furthermore, the show’s use of food to comment on social and political issues such as Soviet influence on American society through the Corn Flakes box is a testament to the creators’ attention to detail and willingness to go beyond just a typical sci-fi plotline.
Ultimately, food is a vital part of Stranger Things season 3. It might seem like a minor aspect of the show at first, but it has become a crucial part of the show’s charm and appeal. The show’s fantastic narrative and superb acting held center stage, but the Duffer Brothers used the food to enhance the overall viewing experience and keep the audiences hooked. Whether it was the neon lit Peach Pit or the rats in Billy’s Burger, the food in Stranger Things season 3 gave viewers an adventure beyond our world-it was a trip to the Upside Down Dining Experience.
Hi there! I’m Astrid Ogley, a passionate foodie and avid cook. With a love for all types of cuisine, from classic comfort food to exotic international dishes, I’m always looking to expand my culinary horizons. Through this blog, I share my tips and inspiration for cooking delicious meals and exploring new flavors.