FORBIDDEN FRUIT
Menu design, logo design, print design.
Forbidden Fruit is a fun and provocative restaurant menu concept that explores the intersection of religion, religious reclamation, queerness, and indulgence, all centered around the symbolic apple from the story of Eve. Drawing inspiration from drag culture, gothic motifs, and theatrical design, the project blends fun, edge, and deep cultural commentary into a single, cohesive concept. Forbidden Fruit is a community-based, extravagant bar and drag dinner theatre.
I developed everything from the brand name and logo to the full menu design, combining bold typography, rich colors, and evocative imagery to communicate the rebellious spirit of the theme. The design also features elements of drag and gothic aesthetics, pushing boundaries while remaining visually appealing.
I’m especially proud of the brand story and how effectively the menu, imagery, and overall concept communicate its message; winning Best Overall Design in my class was a testament to how well it resonated.
Menu closed
Menu opened
Drink menu closed
Drink menu opened
Matchbox
To combine the modern with the historical, the edgy with the traditional, I decided to look upon gothic architecture as inspiration for the abstract shapes, and I combined this with traditional biblical artwork. The gothic shapes also led me to create the logo, a mirrored “F” that creates an eaten apple at the bottom.
The main menu resembles a traditional theatre that opens from the front, and the bar menu resembles a curtain that pulls upwards. As an extra item, I created a matchbox, highlighting the importance of community, by it being a collectible and shareable item.
This project won the "Best Design" award in my Graphic Design III class.
