Marvel Comics is serving up another helping of superhero action with a side of humanitarianism this fall. Following the success of Meals to Astonish: Spider-Man #1, the publisher is once again partnering with internationally acclaimed chef José Andrés and his nonprofit organization World Central Kitchen for Meals to Astonish: Avengers #1, arriving in comic shops this October.
Rather than simply placing a celebrity chef alongside Marvel’s iconic heroes, the Meals to Astonish series highlights the real-world mission of World Central Kitchen, the nonprofit Andrés founded in 2010 to provide fresh meals to communities affected by natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and conflict around the globe. Since its inception, the organization has served hundreds of millions of meals in response to hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, and other emergencies, earning worldwide recognition for its rapid-response relief efforts.
Written by Steve Orlando with artwork by Roi Mercado, the new one-shot finds José Andrés joining forces with Earth’s Mightiest Heroes for an adventure that blends high-tech innovation with high-stakes action. The story follows Andrés and Tony Stark as they travel to Las Vegas to unveil a groundbreaking disaster-relief technology designed to help communities in crisis. Their plans are quickly interrupted when the villainous Ultron launches an attack, forcing the Avengers into action to protect both the new technology and the people it was created to serve.
The oversized issue offers more than one adventure. Readers can also enjoy a new installment of Jeff’s Table, spun off from Marvel’s T.E.S.T. Kitchen Infinity Comic by Michelin-starred chef Paul Eschbach and artist E.J. Su, along with additional stories—including the debut of the delightfully named Venomnom, created by Jacob Chabot.
For Orlando, returning to the series was an easy decision.:
“The Avengers have finally met their match! A force that works just as hard to feed the world as they do to save it,” the writer said, explaining that the creative team wanted to expand the partnership after seeing how naturally World Central Kitchen’s mission fit within the Marvel Universe.”
José Andrés echoed that enthusiasm, saying it was “an honor of a lifetime” to reunite with Marvel’s heroes for an even bigger adventure. “Together with the Marvel Universe we are taking on the greatest mission of all . . .to feed the world!” he said.
With its blend of superhero spectacle and real-world compassion, Meals to Astonish: Avengers #1 demonstrates that saving lives doesn’t always require superpowers. Sometimes, it begins with something as simple—and as essential—as sharing a meal.
Meals to Astonish: Avengers #1 goes on sale this October. Look for Leinil Francis Yu’s dynamic cover at your local comic shop. For more information visit Marvel.com.