loligurie

Loligurie is a neologism used to describe a cross-genre online phenomenon that blends humor with elements of gastronomy. In this context, "lol" signals irony or amusement, while references to cuisine and culinary presentation signal a focus on food culture. The term typically describes posts, memes, and accounts that present elaborate or imaginary dishes with playful or satirical captions, often parodying the aesthetics of high-end dining.

Origins and spread: The concept reportedly originated in online communities in the early 2010s and gained prominence on image boards and microblog platforms where users experimented with food photography, fake tasting notes, and spoof reviews. It circulated as a flexible format rather than a single fixed style, allowing creators to mix gag lines, parody culinary jargon, and visually striking food images.

Characteristics: Loligurie works through juxtaposition—formal or faux-serious language paired with obviously playful or absurd food concepts. Common elements include exaggerated plating, invented provenance, mock critic voice, and references to Michelin culture. The humor is typically accessible, relying on recognizable cues from food media while subverting them.

Reception and influence: As a meme form, loligurie is generally viewed as light satire of food culture and online media ecosystems. Critics note that it can normalize extravagant, performative food displays for entertainment, without encouraging real consumption or waste. Proponents see it as a creative outlet for photographers, writers, and food enthusiasts to experiment with tone and form.

See also: food memes, culinary satire, meme culture, food photography.