Conclave Cuisine: Cardinals Opt for Simple Dining Over Gourmet Meals

As the cardinals gather for the papal conclave, expectations for their meals are low, described as “food you could eat at a train station” by Cardinal Mauro Piacenza. Location and cuisine at Casa Santa Marta, a guesthouse once frequented by Pope Francis, reflect a focus on simplicity rather than culinary excellence.

As the election of the next pope approaches, cardinals are gathered at the Vatican with expectations not just for choosing a new leader, but also for their meals. In stark contrast to the significance of the event, the culinary offerings at the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse have been described disparagingly. Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, a seasoned conclave participant, characterizes the food as unremarkable, akin to "food you could eat at a train station," referencing bland pastas and simple cutlets lacking excitement.

The atmosphere of the Santa Marta cafeteria does little to improve these sentiments. Its plain design, complete with utility furniture and fan art depicting Pope Francis in a whimsical light, fails to create an inspiring dining experience. Despite its utilitarian nature, the guesthouse has drawn priests seeking reservations due to its connection to Pope Francis, who often dined there before his recent health issues led him to eat in solitude.

Pope Francis's simplicity and focus on humility have evidently influenced the culinary standards at Santa Marta, leading some to express disappointment over uninspired meals made from leftovers, including dried fruits gifted to the Vatican. Across various viewpoints, even differing political affiliations cannot mask a common consensus among cardinals: the food, expectedly, is not the highlight of the conclave proceedings.