How far does the notion of superb chow on American subs go back? Was this also a true during WWII? Was it just a recruitment device? And tho I understand there was not much given to German subs in terms of 'hospitality', was there a simliar emphasis on the gallery? With the popularity of cook books, I'm amazed that there has not been a 'sub chow' book. Or has there? No doubt it would sell on just the novelty alone. Mmmm.!
You might want to check out my thread on rations. There is info there on US Navy food and food served on submarines of other navies. http://www.ww2f.com/weapons-wwii/22315-best-favorite-mess-kits.html
One interesting point regarding subs and habitability is that US WW 2 boats were alone in having air conditioning on the boat. Now, this might seem silly until you realize that a submerged submarine is either a sweltering, steaming, reeking place with water dripping off everything or, a freezing, reeking, raining mess with water dripping off everything without air conditioning. Food rots. Sleeping on a wet stinking bunk is not conducive to good rest or health. Equipment is more prone to fail, particularly electronics. Air conditioning made a huge difference is performance for the crew and the boat.
Not all US subs had air conditioning during WW II. The old S-class boats were without it, except for one or two in which the crews jury-rigged A/C units which they had purchased with their own money. That's one of the major reasons the S-boats were initially withdrawn from tropical areas and eventually from all combat areas.
It's my understanding that German boats did not have full galleys, just a way to heat food. Certainly they did not emphasize "habitability" to anywhere near the degree that US sub design did. Neither did British or Japanese subs, I don't know about Italian or French subs, but I think it's doubtful.
Once again I will point out my thread on rations. I have posted some pics of the US and British submarine galleys and of the rations served on them and other country's submarines. http://www.ww2f.com/weapons-wwii/22315-best-favorite-mess-kits.html
The S-Boats were also 20 years old and of a single hull construction, unlike the more modern "Fleet Boats" of WW II.
