The best 27 Restaurant books

Bitter Brew by William Knoedelseder is a gripping account of the rise and fall of the Anheuser-Busch dynasty. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Knoedelseder delves into the family feuds, corporate power struggles, and the ultimate takeover of the iconic American brewery. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of big business and the high price of success.

Hotbox by Matt Lee takes readers behind the scenes of the high-stakes world of catering. With humor and insight, the book reveals the intense challenges and creative solutions that go into serving top-notch food at events ranging from weddings to celebrity parties. From kitchen mishaps to last-minute menu changes, this captivating read offers a unique glimpse into a fast-paced and competitive industry.

Service Included is a memoir by Phoebe Damrosch that takes readers behind the scenes of the renowned New York City restaurant, Per Se. Damrosch shares her experiences working as a waitress and the demanding, often chaotic world of fine dining. From the intense training to the intricate details of each dish, the book provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a high-end restaurant.

Meehan's Bartender Manual by Jim Meehan is a comprehensive guide to the art and science of cocktail making. It delves into the history of cocktails, provides in-depth knowledge about spirits and ingredients, and offers practical tips and techniques for creating exceptional drinks. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, this book is a must-read for anyone passionate about the craft of cocktails.

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.

Restaurant & Bar Marketing by Erik Shellenberger provides practical strategies and insights for marketing your establishment in the competitive hospitality industry. From creating a strong brand identity to leveraging social media and online reviews, this book offers valuable tips to attract and retain customers. Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur or a new bar owner, this guide will help you stand out and thrive in the market.

Get Jiro! is a graphic novel set in a dystopian future where food and culinary skills hold immense power. Written by Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose, it tells the story of Jiro, a talented sushi chef with a mysterious past who becomes embroiled in a deadly culinary war between two rival factions. Filled with dark humor and stunning artwork, this book explores themes of food culture, tradition, and the consequences of culinary obsession.

Keto Restaurant Favorites by Maria Emmerich offers a collection of delicious low-carb, high-fat recipes inspired by popular restaurant dishes. From appetizers to desserts, this book provides a variety of options for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. With clear instructions and helpful tips, Emmerich makes it easy to enjoy your favorite restaurant meals while staying true to your dietary goals.

Taste of Home Copycat Restaurant Favorites provides a collection of recipes that allow you to recreate your favorite restaurant dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen. From Olive Garden’s breadsticks to Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte, this book offers step-by-step instructions and tips to help you achieve the same great taste at home.

Sous Chef by Michael Gibney offers a behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced and intense world of professional cooking. Through vivid storytelling, the author takes us on a journey through a day in the life of a sous chef, revealing the challenges, skills, and dedication required to thrive in a high-pressure kitchen. It's a fascinating and immersive read for anyone curious about the inner workings of a restaurant.

Covert Cows and Chick-fil-A by Steve Robinson takes you behind the scenes of one of America's most beloved fast-food chains. Through fascinating anecdotes and insider insights, Robinson reveals the unconventional marketing strategies and unwavering commitment to customer service that have made Chick-fil-A a powerhouse in the industry. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of business, branding, and delicious chicken sandwiches.

Memoir of the Sunday Brunch by Julia Pandl is a heartfelt and humorous account of growing up in a family-owned restaurant. Through vivid storytelling, the author takes us on a journey filled with quirky characters, delicious food, and the unique challenges of working in the hospitality industry. It's a delightful tribute to the bond between family and the power of shared meals.

The Restaurant by Pamela M. Kelley is a heartwarming tale of family, food, and second chances. When three sisters inherit their grandmother's beloved Nantucket restaurant, they must come together to fulfill her final wish: to run the restaurant for one year before deciding its fate. As they navigate the challenges of the restaurant business and confront their own personal struggles, they learn the true meaning of family and discover unexpected opportunities for love and happiness.

Holistic Goat Care by Gianaclis Caldwell provides a comprehensive guide to raising and caring for goats using natural and holistic methods. From nutrition and health care to breeding and kidding, this book offers practical advice and valuable insights for goat owners of all experience levels. It emphasizes the importance of understanding goats as individuals and tailoring their care accordingly, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in sustainable and compassionate goat management.

Secret Formula by Frederick Allen uncovers the fascinating history behind the creation and success of Coca-Cola. From its humble beginnings as a patent medicine to becoming a global powerhouse, this book delves into the strategic marketing, business tactics, and controversies that shaped the iconic beverage. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the secret formula and the relentless pursuit of dominance in the soft drink industry.

Starting Your Own Coffee Shop by Jessica Simms provides a comprehensive guide for aspiring coffee shop owners. From creating a business plan to selecting the perfect location, this book covers all the essential steps to launch and run a successful coffee shop. Simms also offers practical tips on menu planning, hiring staff, and marketing strategies. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or an entrepreneur, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in entering the coffee industry.

Quentins is a captivating novel by Maeve Binchy that delves into the lives of the staff and customers of a popular Dublin restaurant. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Ireland, the book explores themes of love, friendship, and the power of community. With its richly drawn characters and heartwarming storytelling, it offers a delightful and insightful glimpse into the human experience.

The Food Truck Handbook by David Weber is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to start and run a successful food truck business. From creating a business plan and finding the right truck to marketing strategies and navigating regulations, this book provides valuable insights and practical tips to help aspiring food truck entrepreneurs thrive in the competitive industry.

Your Restaurant Sucks! by Donald Burns is a no-nonsense guide for restaurant owners and managers who want to turn their struggling businesses around. With practical advice and real-life examples, this book will help you identify the problems in your restaurant and provide actionable solutions to improve service, increase profits, and create a better dining experience for your customers. It's time to stop making excuses and start making changes!

The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand is a captivating novel set in a bustling Nantucket restaurant. It follows the story of Adrienne, a young woman looking for a fresh start, who takes a job at the famous Blue Bistro. As she navigates the challenges of her new job and forms unexpected friendships, she also uncovers secrets about the restaurant's past. This book is a delightful blend of romance, mystery, and culinary delights.

Coffeeland by Augustine Sedgewick is a captivating exploration of the global coffee industry. From the rise of coffee as a commodity to its impact on economies and societies, this book delves into the complex history and power dynamics behind one of the world's most beloved beverages. It offers a thought-provoking look at the interconnectedness of our modern world.

Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant is a poignant family drama by Anne Tyler. Set in Baltimore, it delves into the lives of the Tull family, focusing on the relationships between a mother and her three very different children. As they gather for a final dinner at the family restaurant, old wounds are reopened and secrets are revealed, offering a profound exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of family bonds.

Infused by Henrietta Lovell takes readers on a journey through the world of tea. From remote mountain villages to bustling tea auctions, Lovell explores the rich history, cultural significance, and exquisite flavors of this beloved beverage. Filled with fascinating anecdotes and beautiful imagery, this book is a must-read for tea enthusiasts and anyone interested in the stories behind their favorite drinks.

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.

Queen of Klutz is a delightful romantic comedy by Samantha Garman. The book follows the hilarious misadventures of Sibby, a charmingly clumsy woman who finds herself in one embarrassing situation after another. When Sibby meets the handsome and enigmatic Gabriel, her life takes an unexpected turn. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and heartwarming romance, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good romantic comedy.

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.

The Truffle Underground by Ryan Jacobs delves into the secretive and lucrative world of truffle hunting and trading. It uncovers the hidden truths and criminal activities behind the luxury delicacy, revealing the lengths people will go to in order to profit from these elusive fungi. A captivating blend of investigative journalism and culinary intrigue, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into a world few have ever seen.