Introduction
Westeros, the fictional continent from the popular TV series Game of Thrones, is known for its grand banquets and lavish feasts. From the Lannisters’ infamous Red Wedding to the Stark family’s hearty meals, dining plays an important role in the lifestyle of the Westerosi people. Are you curious about what the Westeros table entails? This ultimate guide is designed to showcase the various delicacies, recipes, and dining customs from the seven kingdoms of Westeros.
Part 1: Lannister Feast
The Lannisters are renowned for their wealth and opulence, and their feasts are no exception. Their meals consist of the finest meats and wines from the West, and they never shy away from indulging in sweets and desserts.
The Menu
The Lannister feast features a variety of meats, including roast beef, venison, and pork, all served with rich gravies and sauces. They also have a taste for exotic meats such as pigeon pie, lamprey pie, and even snake soup. The Lannisters are also known for their abundance of vegetables, including honey-roasted carrots, buttered turnips, and tomato tarts. For dessert, they enjoy sweets such as lemon cakes, fruit tarts, and sugared plums.
The Atmosphere
The Lannisters are known for their grandeur, and their feasts are no exception. The banquet halls are decorated with intricate tapestries, chandeliers, and candelabras. The tables are laden with silverware, crystal goblets, and ornate plates. The guests are dressed in their finest, with noblewomen adorned in jewels and furs. The music is provided by skilled bards, and the mood is jovial, with laughter ringing throughout the hall.
Part 2: Stark Feast
In contrast to the Lannisters, the Stark family has a preference for simple, hearty fare. They value practicality and hospitality, and their meals reflect this philosophy.
The Menu
The Stark feast consists of meats such as roast beef, pork pies, and venison stew. They also enjoy vegetable dishes, including roasted potatoes, turnips, and onion soup. For dessert, they favor apple tarts, honey cakes, and oatcakes. The Starks also pride themselves on their homemade bread, which is baked fresh daily.
The Atmosphere
The Stark banquet hall is less ostentatious than that of the Lannisters but exudes warmth and hospitality. The tables are adorned with simple tablecloths, and wooden platters take the place of silver. Guests sit on benches rather than chairs, and the mood is casual and relaxed. The Starks believe in the value of conversation and storytelling, and their feasts often feature entertainment such as musicians, dancers, and poetry readings.
Part 3: Iron Islands Feast
The Iron Islands, located off the coast of Westeros, have a distinct culture and cuisine. Their seafaring lifestyle is reflected in their love for seafood and salt.
The Menu
The Iron Islands feast features a variety of seafood such as smoked cod, salted herring, and eel stew. They also enjoy roasted goat, salted pork, and mutton stew. The Iron Islanders favor strong, bold flavors and use spices such as salt, pepper, and garlic liberally. They also have a love for ale and mead, which flow freely during their feasts.
The Atmosphere
The Iron Islander feast is held in their Great Hall, located in the castle of Pyke. The hall is decorated with the skulls of their enemies, and the tables are made of rough-hewn wood. The guests sit on benches, and the mood is raucous and lively. Entertainment includes rough games such as spear-throwing and wrestling.