IKEA's 'dinner for 64' puts the spotlight on the kitchen

Survey shows Canadians want to eat healthier and at home more often

Clearly, the emphasis at IKEA Canada’s recent annual Open House event was on having fun and hospitality, but also, this year’s focus on food and kitchens seemed very timely.

Held at the Storeys restaurant in downtown Toronto, IKEA rather ambitiously staged a sit-down dinner for 64 guests, consisting of two tables of 32 diners each.

It was intended to showcase the Swedish tradition of Langbord,,which literally translates into long table, meaning guests share one table instead of being spread out.

And while the kitchen has always been considered the heart of the home, “add in that people are rediscovering the joys of eating and hosting from home,” says IKEA’s Kristen Gallacher, director of cooking and eating, who believe