The best 27 Food books

The Hive explores the fascinating world of bees and their intricate social structure. Bee Wilson delves into the history, science, and cultural significance of these remarkable creatures, offering a captivating and informative look at the role they play in our ecosystem and the lessons we can learn from their highly organized society.

The Fish That Ate the Whale tells the fascinating true story of Samuel Zemurray, a poor immigrant who rose to become one of the most powerful and controversial figures in the banana trade. Through cunning business tactics and sheer determination, Zemurray built a fruit empire that challenged the established order and forever changed the way we think about power and success. Rich Cohen's gripping narrative brings this extraordinary tale to life, offering a unique perspective on the American dream and the ruthless pursuit of wealth.

Ratio explores the fundamental principles of cooking and baking, focusing on the importance of ratios and proportions in creating delicious dishes. Author Michael Ruhlman delves into the science behind cooking, providing readers with the knowledge and confidence to experiment with their own recipes and techniques. This insightful book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills.

The Man Who Ate Everything is a collection of essays by Jeffrey Steingarten that delves into the world of food and eating. With wit and curiosity, the author explores various culinary topics, from the perfect roast chicken to the science of taste, offering entertaining anecdotes and valuable insights along the way. A must-read for food enthusiasts and anyone curious about the cultural and scientific aspects of food.

Food of the Gods by Terence McKenna explores the relationship between humans and psychoactive plants throughout history. McKenna delves into the idea that these plants have played a crucial role in shaping human evolution and culture. He also discusses the potential benefits of reconnecting with these substances in a responsible and intentional way.

Farm City by Novella Carpenter is a captivating memoir that takes you on a journey to an unconventional urban farm in Oakland, California. Carpenter shares her experiences of transforming an abandoned lot into a thriving garden and raising a variety of animals, all while navigating the challenges and rewards of sustainable living in the city. It's a delightful and thought-provoking read that will inspire you to rethink our relationship with food and the environment.

Delicious! is a captivating novel by Ruth Reichl that tells the story of Billie Breslin, a young woman who moves to New York City to work at a food magazine. Filled with delectable descriptions of food and heartwarming characters, this book takes you on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the power of delicious meals to bring people together. It's a delightful read for food lovers and fiction enthusiasts alike.

Kitchens of the Great Midwest is a captivating novel that takes you on a culinary journey through the Midwest. Written by J. Ryan Stradal, it tells the story of a young woman named Eva who has an extraordinary talent for cooking. Each chapter focuses on a different ingredient or dish, weaving together a heartwarming and delicious tale of family, love, and the power of food.

Yes, Chef is a memoir by renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson. It takes you on a journey from his humble beginnings in Ethiopia to his rise to culinary stardom in New York City. Samuelsson shares his passion for food, his experiences in the restaurant industry, and the challenges he faced along the way. It's a captivating and inspiring tale of determination and the power of following your dreams.

Wine Folly by Madeline Puckette is a comprehensive and visually stunning guide to the world of wine. It covers everything from the basics of wine tasting to in-depth information about different grape varieties and wine regions. Whether you're a novice or a connoisseur, this book will enhance your appreciation and understanding of wine.

Notes from a Young Black Chef is a captivating memoir by Kwame Onwuachi that chronicles his journey from a tough childhood in the Bronx to becoming a rising star in the culinary world. With honesty and vulnerability, Onwuachi shares his experiences with racism, the challenges he faced in the restaurant industry, and ultimately finding his own voice and identity as a chef. It's a powerful and inspiring story that celebrates resilience and the pursuit of one's passion.

Save Me the Plums is a memoir by Ruth Reichl that takes readers behind the scenes of the food industry. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Reichl's time as the editor-in-chief of Gourmet magazine, sharing stories of the challenges, triumphs, and delicious discoveries she experienced along the way. Through vivid storytelling and mouthwatering descriptions, the book offers a unique perspective on the world of culinary arts.

The Sweet Life in Paris is a delightful memoir by David Lebovitz that takes you on a culinary adventure through the streets of Paris. Filled with humor and mouth-watering descriptions, Lebovitz shares his experiences as an American expat living in the City of Light, navigating French markets, recipes, and the quirks of Parisian life. It's a charming and insightful book that will make you fall in love with Paris all over again.

The Making of a Chef is a captivating memoir by Michael Ruhlman that takes readers inside the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Through Ruhlman's own journey and experiences, the book provides an in-depth look at the intense training and transformation aspiring chefs undergo to master the art of cooking. It offers a fascinating exploration of the dedication, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence required to succeed in the culinary world.

The Food Explorer by Daniel Stone tells the fascinating true story of David Fairchild, a young man with a passion for plants and a taste for adventure. As a food explorer for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fairchild traveled the world in search of new and exotic crops to introduce to American farmers and consumers. From avocados in Chile to mangoes in India, this book takes us on a journey of discovery and the global exchange of food that has shaped our modern diets.

Garlic and Sapphires is a memoir by Ruth Reichl that takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of food and fine dining. With wit and insight, Reichl shares her experiences as the restaurant critic for the New York Times, revealing the elaborate disguises and personas she adopted to maintain her anonymity. From lavish meals to behind-the-scenes kitchen dramas, this book offers a unique glimpse into the culinary industry.

A Homemade Life by Molly Wizenberg is a memoir filled with heartfelt stories and delicious recipes. Wizenberg takes us on a journey through her life, sharing how food has shaped her experiences and relationships. It's a beautiful celebration of the connection between food and memories.

Julie and Julia is a memoir by Julie Powell that chronicles her year-long journey of cooking every recipe in Julia Child's cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. As she navigates the challenges of mastering intricate French recipes and reflects on her own life, Powell shares a humorous and inspiring tale of self-discovery and the power of food.

The Nasty Bits is a collection of essays by renowned chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain. With his signature wit and unapologetic honesty, Bourdain takes readers on a culinary adventure, exploring the underbelly of the food world. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of restaurant kitchens to his thoughts on food trends and travel experiences, this book offers a raw and thought-provoking look at the realities of the food industry.

Tender at the Bone is a memoir by Ruth Reichl that delves into her unique relationship with food and how it shaped her life. From her unconventional upbringing to her adventures in the culinary world, Reichl shares heartfelt and humorous anecdotes that celebrate the power of food and the connections it creates.

Comfort Food by Ina Garten is a heartwarming collection of recipes that evoke feelings of nostalgia and contentment. From macaroni and cheese to chicken pot pie, Garten shares her favorite comforting dishes and the stories behind them. With beautiful photography and helpful tips, this book is a celebration of the joy that comes from sharing delicious meals with loved ones.

Pandora's Lunchbox by Melanie Warner takes a deep dive into the world of processed foods. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book reveals the hidden ingredients, chemicals, and processes that go into the food we consume every day. It raises important questions about the impact of processed foods on our health and the food industry as a whole. A thought-provoking and eye-opening read for anyone interested in what really goes into their meals.

Real Food/Fake Food by Larry Olmsted is a thought-provoking book that delves into the world of food fraud. It uncovers the shocking truth behind the food industry, revealing how many of the foods we consume are not what they seem. From counterfeit olive oil to fake Kobe beef, this book will make you question the authenticity of the food on your plate and inspire you to seek out real, high-quality ingredients.

Relish is a delightful graphic memoir by Lucy Knisley that takes us on a culinary journey through her life. Filled with charming illustrations and mouth-watering recipes, Knisley shares her love for food and the memories associated with it. From her childhood adventures in the kitchen to her experiences working in restaurants, this book is a celebration of the joy and connection that food brings.

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking is a comprehensive guide to the fundamentals of Italian cuisine. Written by the legendary Marcella Hazan, this book covers everything from pasta and risotto to meat and vegetable dishes. With clear instructions and a deep understanding of the ingredients, Hazan provides a wealth of timeless recipes that will help you master the art of Italian cooking.

Joy of Cooking is a timeless classic that has been a staple in kitchens for generations. Written by Irma S. Rombauer, this comprehensive cookbook covers everything from the basics of cooking to more advanced techniques. With a wide range of recipes and helpful tips, it's a must-have for anyone looking to expand their culinary skills.

My Life in France is a memoir by Julia Child, recounting her experiences living in France with her husband, Paul. Filled with delightful anecdotes and mouth-watering descriptions of French cuisine, the book takes us on a journey through Julia's culinary awakening and her eventual transformation into a renowned chef. It is a heartfelt tribute to the country that inspired her passion for food and cooking.