Jay-Z's Culinary Evolution: From Brooklyn Roots to Plant-Based Plates
For a superstar as multifaceted as Jay-Z, his relationship with food has evolved over the years, mirroring his personal and professional journey. While fans often focus on his business ventures and music, his culinary story provides a more intimate look at the man behind the brand. While he has publicly declared his favorite pizza spot, his diet is a more complex story involving occasional indulgences, a move towards plant-based meals, and classic favorites from his childhood.
The Iconic Brooklyn Pizza
For any native New Yorker, pizza is more than just food; it's a way of life. For Jay-Z, the ultimate slice comes from Lucali, a small, traditional pizzeria in Brooklyn's Carroll Gardens. This thin-crust establishment is famously difficult to get into, but the quality is so high that Beyoncé once skipped a Grammy event to eat there. This preference highlights Jay-Z's connection to his roots and his appreciation for authentic, high-quality food. The power couple's patronage of Lucali has brought the local gem international attention, with many fans seeking out the restaurant for a taste of the rapper's favorite pie.
The Plant-Based Movement with Beyoncé
In recent years, Jay-Z's diet has seen a significant shift, influenced by his wife, Beyoncé, and their trainer Marco Borges. In 2013, the couple famously undertook a 22-day vegan challenge, which Jay-Z wrote about on his blog, Life+Times. The challenge, part of a "spiritual and physical cleanse," served as an introduction to a more plant-based lifestyle. Since then, his consumption has become more balanced, incorporating plant-based meals regularly, though he is not a full-time vegan. Their private chef prepares dishes like overnight oats, avocado toast, and walnut tacos to satisfy their palate while adhering to a healthier lifestyle. This move is not just a diet for the couple; it is a mission to promote health and wellness, a truth they have shared with their children.
- Vegan Investments: Jay-Z's support for plant-based living extends beyond his kitchen. He has invested in several vegan companies through his entertainment company, Roc Nation, including Impossible Foods, Partake Foods (vegan cookies), and Oatly (oat milk). This demonstrates his commitment to the vegan movement on a larger scale.
- Hybrid Diet: The adoption of a mostly plant-based diet has not completely eliminated his love for other foods. Reports suggest a balanced approach, with some sources claiming he still enjoys cheese and pasta with clams, though possibly in moderation.
An Enduring Taste for Classic Dishes
Despite his shift toward healthier options, Jay-Z still has an appreciation for classic, hearty dishes. In a 2019 interview, he mentioned that foods like "wings, pizza, burgers, steak, cheesecake" always make him think of New York. His taste for classic soul food dishes has also been noted, a reminder of his upbringing.
- Soul Food: On a trip to Chicago, Jay-Z reportedly visited the restaurant Bronzeville Soul and ordered short ribs and pound cake, a testament to his continued enjoyment of soul food classics.
- Wings: Before his shift towards a plant-based diet, Jay-Z mentioned that chicken wings were his go-to dish. He has even used his 40/40 Club sports bar as an opportunity to promote great-tasting wings and sliders.
A Comparison of Jay-Z's Food Preferences
| Food Category | Earlier Preferences | Current Approach | Notable Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pizza | Thin-crust, New York style | Still enjoys, likely less frequent or with vegan alternatives | Lucali, Brooklyn |
| Meat & Protein | Chicken wings, steak, burgers | Primarily plant-based with occasional meat or seafood | Vegan meals prepared by private chef, such as walnut tacos |
| Dining Out | The 40/40 Club (wings, sliders), Mamo (Italian) | Wide range of restaurants, including vegan-friendly options | Mamo in SoHo |
| Dessert | Cheesecake | Undisclosed, likely enjoys treats in moderation | Pound cake from Bronzeville Soul |
Conclusion
While a single answer like "Brooklyn pizza" gives a simple response, the reality of what is Jay-Z's favorite food is more complex and nuanced. His dietary choices reflect a journey that embraces his New York roots and love for classic comfort foods while also adapting to a more health-conscious, plant-based lifestyle with his family. It's a culinary tale that spans from nostalgic indulgences at Lucali to innovative, plant-based meals at home, showcasing a man who isn't afraid to evolve, even when it comes to his plate. His food choices, much like his career, demonstrate a blend of tradition, innovation, and a constant pursuit of excellence.
