Binding Agents: A Cook/Book Shop
908 Christian StreetJoin Binding Agents for an evening with author and New York Times journalist Erik Piepenburg exploring his book Dining Out: First Dates, Defiant Nights, and Last Call Disco Fries at America's Gay Restaurants.
Dining Out explores how gay people came of age, came out, and fought for their rights not just in gay bars or the streets, but in restaurants. From cruisy urban cafeterias of the 1920s to mom-and-pop diners that fed the Stonewall generation to the intersectional hotspots of the early 21st century, Piepenburg explores how LGBTQ restaurants shaped and continue to shape generations of gay Americans.
Praise for Dining Out
"Dining Out is at once a thoroughly researched investigation of gay restaurants and their impact on the resistance movements of the past and present, as well as a dedication to the queer community that Piepenburg holds dear. His experience as a journalist is evident in the piece’s structure and voice, but so is his reverence for all those who have been othered in spaces where they should be welcomed."
- Chicago Review of Books
"Erik Piepenburg's Dining Out looks at 150 years of queer American food establishments, from cafeterias to diners to bathhouses. He argues that gay…restaurants—defined simply as places where gay people eat—have been every bit as essential to connection, activism, and queer history as have bars. ... Any topical survey will wrstel with the subjective nature of queer belonging, but in Dining Out, Piepenburg's rigorous research and sensitive reporting are vital to the book's impact."
- New York Times Book Review
About the Author
Erik Piepenburg has been writing for The New York Times since 2004, covering LGBTQ+ issues, film, theater, television, food and travel. His writing has also appeared in The Los Angeles Times, Time Out New York, the Chicago Reader, Out magazine, and other publications. Originally and proudly from Cleveland, he lives with his partner in New York City.
Mon, Mar 16, 2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Binding Agents: A Cook/Book Shop
908 Christian Street
Binding Agents is Philly's bookshop for cooks and eaters. Located in South Philly’s culinary epicenter, the 9th Street Italian Market, we’re your go-to source for new cookbooks and food-focused reads, plus gifts and goods for making, serving and enjoying. We’re independent, women-owned, fun & funky. Learn more at bindingagentsphilly.com.
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