The goth subculture is renowned for its dark fashion, melancholic music, and a fascination with the macabre, but what about their eating and drinking habits? Long story short, there isn’t a strict “goth diet”, most Goths do eat exactly like “normal” people. However, sometimes, the food and drink choices of goths can reflect their aesthetics, values, and cultural influences. Let’s take a look at what goths are likely to enjoy at the dinner table and beyond.
1. Dark, Themed, and Aesthetic Foods
Goths often gravitate towards foods and drinks that align with their dark, moody aesthetics. This can mean anything from foods that are literally dark in color to dishes that have a sense of mystery, elegance, or historical ties.
- Black and Dark Foods: Foods with deep, dark colors naturally appeal to goth sensibilities. Black pasta, black rice, squid ink dishes, and activated charcoal-based foods (like charcoal burgers or ice cream) are often sought after for their visual appeal. The goth subculture’s fascination with all things dark means that these foods fit perfectly within their aesthetic.
- Goth-Themed Treats: Gothic-themed bakeries and cafes sometimes cater to the goth crowd with spooky, atmospheric treats. For instance, you might find cupcakes decorated with skulls, black frosting, or even coffin-shaped pastries. Black macarons, dark chocolate truffles, and licorice are also popular choices for those who enjoy aligning their food with their gothic style.
- Historical and Old-World Cuisine: Many goths have an affinity for historical eras like the Victorian age, which influences some of their food choices. A gothic dinner party might feature hearty, traditional dishes like roast meats, stews, and rich, decadent desserts that hearken back to a more elegant time. Foods that evoke a sense of mystery, like absinthe or black tea with elaborate tea sets, are also favored.
2. Veganism and Vegetarianism
While it might surprise some, a significant portion of the goth community is drawn to vegetarianism and veganism. This stems from both ethical considerations and aesthetic preferences.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Goths: Many goths choose plant-based diets out of concern for animal welfare, making vegetarianism and veganism common in the subculture. Influential figures like Draculaura, the vegan vampire character from Monster High, have even helped popularize the connection between the goth community and plant-based lifestyles.
- Gothic Plant-Based Foods: Vegan versions of traditional gothic foods can include black bean burgers, roasted vegetable stews, or black rice sushi rolls. Dark-colored veggies like eggplant, black beans, and purple cabbage, along with fruits like blackberries and figs, all fit within the gothic palate.
3. Exotic and Unusual Foods
Given goth culture’s fascination with the unusual and the macabre, many goths are drawn to more exotic or unconventional foods. Exploring lesser-known dishes or foods from other cultures can be part of the goth experience.
- Gothic Ethnic Foods: Some goths enjoy foods with cultural or historical significance, such as absinthe-infused dishes, medieval-style banquets, or Japanese cuisine (like bento boxes designed with dark and spooky themes). The Japanese subculture Ero Guro (Erotic Grotesque) overlaps with goth culture, and foods that evoke eerie or grotesque elements might appeal to goths with a taste for the bizarre.
4. Goth Drinks: From Dark Spirits to Elegant Teas
Drinks are a central part of any culture, and goths enjoy beverages that reflect their personal aesthetics or offer a sense of mystery, darkness, or historical significance.
- Absinthe: This green, anise-flavored spirit is a favorite in goth circles due to its historical ties to bohemian and gothic cultures, as well as its mystique. Once thought to cause hallucinations, absinthe was a favorite drink of artists, poets, and goth icons in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Red Wine and Dark Beer: The rich, deep colors of red wine, especially varieties like cabernet sauvignon, and dark beers such as stouts or porters, are visually aligned with the goth aesthetic. These drinks evoke the old-world charm that goths often appreciate. Red wine, in particular, is often associated with gothic literature, vampires, and decadent historical settings.
- Goth Cocktails: Many goths enjoy cocktails made with dark spirits like black vodka, dark rum, or whiskey. Drinks that feature moody, evocative presentations—think garnishes with blackberries, activated charcoal, or deep purple hues—fit the gothic theme. Popular choices include:
- Black Widow (a cocktail with black vodka and cranberry juice)
- Midnight Margarita (tequila with blackberries and a dark color)
- The Raven (a cocktail featuring whiskey, black tea, and a touch of sweetness)
- Elegant Teas and Coffee: On the non-alcoholic side, tea culture holds a special place in the hearts of many goths. Dark teas, such as black tea or Pu-erh, are enjoyed for their deep flavors and the old-world feel they evoke. Many goths appreciate the ritualistic and artistic elements of tea preparation, whether it’s a simple cup of Earl Grey or an elaborate Victorian tea party with gothic themes.Coffee, especially strong, black coffee, is also a favorite among goths. The subculture’s embrace of introspection, late nights, and artistic endeavors makes coffee a go-to beverage for many.
5. Spooky-Themed Cafes and Restaurants
In cities with a strong goth scene, there are cafes and restaurants that cater specifically to the subculture. These establishments often feature gothic décor, dim lighting, and themed menus that make dining a full experience.
- Goth Cafes and Bars: There are several goth-themed cafes and bars around the world, where you can enjoy gothic-inspired foods and drinks. These venues often have dark interiors, skull and bat decorations, and even hosts in gothic attire. They provide a social space where goths can relax and enjoy meals in an environment that resonates with their aesthetic.
6. Celebrating with Gothic Feasts
Special occasions in the goth community often feature elaborate feasts or gatherings that highlight food as part of the overall atmosphere.
- Gothic Dinner Parties: Hosting a gothic dinner party is a popular activity within the community, especially during Halloween or other significant goth events. These parties often feature themed menus, dark table settings, and moody candlelight to set the perfect ambiance. Gothic desserts, like blood-red velvet cakes or black macarons, are typically served.
- Seasonal Feasts: Many goths enjoy celebrating traditional pagan holidays like Samhain, where feasting is a central activity. These seasonal gatherings feature comforting autumnal dishes, mulled wine, and hearty stews, often paired with the symbolic elements of the gothic tradition, such as skulls, candles, and dark décor.
Conclusion: A Feast for the Eyes and the Soul
While goths don’t adhere to a specific diet, their choices in food and drink often reflect their appreciation for darkness, elegance, and historical significance. Whether sipping a glass of absinthe, enjoying a plate of squid ink pasta, or relishing a gothic-themed cupcake, goths find ways to make their meals and beverages part of their lifestyle. In true goth fashion, even the act of eating and drinking can become an expression of individuality, creativity, and a love for all things dark and mysterious.