You may be stuck in your home, but that doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a dinner and a movie (or theatrical livestream). Next time you snuggle up in your favorite blanket to watch some theater from your couch, pair it with one of these delicious musical theater-inspired meals or desserts! Your tastebuds (and inner theater geek) will thank you. (PS: We included some vegetarian and vegan options in here!)
Kiss The Cod (Fish Cakes) — Codfish cakes inspired by "Come From Away"
Kissing the cod or a “Screech-in” is a Newfoundland tradition seen in the musical "Come From Away." Newcomers kiss a codfish and then take a shot of Screech (a type of rum) before receiving their certificate from the Royal Order of Newfoundland Screechers. Feel like a true Newfoundlander from the comfort of your couch by munching on these tasty codfish cakes!
Bobbie's Birthday Cake Pops — Birthday Cake Pops inspired by "Company"
Although Bobbie's gathering of friends for her 35th birthday would be frowned upon during this social distancing time, you can still toast the birthday girl with these delectable cake pops. Add some colorful sprinkles and you're ready for a party of one. We'll drink (eat) to that.
A Bruschetta Tale – Bruschetta with tomato and basil inspired by "A Bronx Tale"
Nothing beats a home-cooked Italian meal. Before you dive in to the pasta, try this easy appetizer. It's a satisfying underrated fave, just like the 2016 musical "A Bronx Tale." PS: Listen to the cast recording while you prep your food. Alan Menken's infectious doo-wop score will have you dancing around your kitchen.
Flying Monkey Bread — Monkey Bread inspired by "Wicked"
What is this feeling? Hunger. Satisfy your cravings with monkey bread, a soft, sweet, and sticky pastry sprinkled with cinnamon. Do you think Elphaba has a Thropp family recipe she can pass down to us?
Abuela Claudia's Tostones — Tostones inspired by "In the Heights"
Tostones are slices of unripe plantains, fried, flattened, and then fried again. It is any Dominican's side dish of choice, and just as welcome at street food carts as they are on the dining tables of Washington Heights locals. Pick up your ingredients at De La Vega Bodega (keep at 6-foot distance from all shoppers, of course).
Legally Blondies — Blonde brownies inspires by "Legally Blonde"
These brownies are so good, they should be illegal. (We know a lawyer who can handle that case.) If you're stuck at home studying for exams, we have the perfect snack for your break. PS: If you're starting to feel discouraged or unmotivated, just ask yourself: What Would Elle Woods Do? We're rooting for you!
Ain't Too Proud To Get Seconds Cornbread — Cornbread inspired by "Ain't Too Proud"
According to Otis Williams of The Temptations, Eddie Kendricks's favorite food was cornbread, and as a result he was nicknamed "Cornbread" (or "Corn" for short) by his bandmates. In "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations," there's a hilarious scene where Jelani Remy stuffs his mouth with his character's favorite food. You will too after trying out this recipe as sweet as that Eddie Kendricks falsetto.
Anna & Elsa's Ice Cream — Homemade ice cream inspired by "Frozen"
Watch out Ben and Jerry, these's a new duo taking over. If you can't make it to your local grocer to pick up a pint of your favorite ice cream, don't fret. Here's a homemade ice cream recipe so good, it should be a Arendelle delicacy. Disclaimer: This recipe is safe for all pet reindeers named Sven.
Connor and Evan's Apple Fritters — Apple Fritters inspired by Dear Evan Hansen
Does anyone else's heart break when Cynthia Murphy asks Evan Hansen, "He took you to the orchard?" Although Evan did not actually go to the orchard with Connor, one can dream, right? Pretend these two friends had a perfect day and came home to bake these sweet treats.
Synge Street Stew — Traditional Irish stew inspired by "Sing Street"
Let me set the scene for you: You live in Dublin. Duran Duran is blasting on the radio. You finally get to relax after a long day and you enjoy a hearty soup. That's how this recipe makes us feel: Totally at peace. Put on your favorite '80s tracks, sit back, and enjoy this Irish comfort food inspired by "Sing Street."
Mrs. Lovett's Meat(less) Pies — Meat pies inspired by "Sweeney Todd"
Okay, hear us out. We are not condoning cannibalism. In fact, we're encouraging you to try these delectable dishes in a less —uh— barbaric way. Enjoy a meat(less) pie with veggies and tofu scramble. Our mouths are watering just thinking about the savory filling and flaky crust.
Hades's Hell Fire Wings — Hot wings inspired by "Hadestown"
Hades is god of the underworld and husband of Persephone in the Tony-winning Best Musical "Hadestown." He is cold, uncaring, and a fan of wings (or so we think). Feel your tastebuds burn with these classic hot wings, but whatever you do, don't look back.
Whatever, I'm Getting Cheese Fries — Cheese fries inspired by "Mean Girls"
Admit it: Everyone wants to be Regina George. Release your inner high school queen bee with french fries and a cheesy topping. This is the perfect finger food for late night livestreaming! Tina Fey would be so proud of you.
And One Pasta With Meatless Balls — Vegan spaghetti and meatballs inspired by "Rent"
It tastes the same, according to Collins. "La Vie Bohème" from "Rent" gave us the perfect menu: Five miso soup, four seaweed salad, three soy burger dinner, two tofu dog platter, and of course, one pasta with meatless balls. Experience the adrenaline of a post-show party at the Life Café in your living room with this vegan recipe.
My World Turned Upside Down Apple Upside Down Pie — Apple Upside Down Pie inspired by "Waitress"
Wacky sleep schedules, cancelled plans with friends, a theater shut-down: Everyone's world has turned upside down due to COVID-19 so what better way to cope than to bake (a lot). Put your apron on, slap a "Jenna" name-tag on it, and bake this delicious pie to numb to pain.