Gennifer Birnbach Whether you’re passionate about culinary adventures, craving tantalizing flavors, or eager to explore the rich tapestry of food culture, this curated list of must-read food literature is tailored just for you.
From mouthwatering memoirs to delectable fiction, educational insights, and classic cookbooks, there’s something to satisfy every palate. So, grab a cozy spot, brew a cup of your favorite tea, and prepare to feast on these literary treats.
FICTION
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel: Dive into this enchanting tale of love, family, and magical realism set in Mexico. Tita, the protagonist, expresses her emotions through her delectable dishes, making each meal a sensory experience.
The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais: Follow the journey of Hassan Haji, a young culinary prodigy, as he navigates cultural barriers and culinary rivalries on his quest for gastronomic greatness.
NON-FICTION
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat: Explore the fundamentals of cooking with this essential guide that emphasizes the importance of balancing these four elements to create flavorful cuisine.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan: Delve into the complexities of our food system as Pollan takes you on a thought-provoking journey from farm to table, questioning what we eat and why.
RECENT COOKBOOKS
Modern Comfort Food by Ina Garten: Indulge in comforting yet sophisticated recipes designed to bring joy to your table. Ina Garten’s approachable style and emphasis on quality ingredients make this cookbook a must-have for any home chef.
Vegetable Kingdom by Bryant Terry: Celebrate the vibrant flavors of plant-based cuisine with this innovative cookbook that showcases the versatility of vegetables in delicious, nutrient-rich dishes.
EDUCATIONAL
The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science by J. Kenji López-Alt: Unlock the secrets of culinary science with this comprehensive guide to cooking techniques, ingredient analysis, and recipe experimentation.
Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack: Elevate your wine knowledge with this visually stunning guide that demystifies the world of wine, from grape varietals to food pairings.
AUTOBIOGRAPHIES
Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain: Embark on a wild ride through the culinary underbelly as Bourdain shares behind-the-scenes stories from his years in the restaurant industry, offering candid insights and colorful anecdotes.
My Life in France by Julia Child with Alex Prud’homme: Join culinary icon Julia Child on her journey of self-discovery and culinary enlightenment as she recounts her adventures in France and the creation of her seminal cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking.
Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise: Ruth Reichl’s memoir offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of food criticism as she recounts her experiences as the restaurant critic for The New York Times. With wit, charm, and mouthwatering descriptions, Reichl takes readers on a culinary adventure through the vibrant landscape of New York City’s dining scene.
Foodie Enthusiast
Indulge your passion for food and literature with these captivating reads that celebrate the artistry, culture, and joy of eating. This reading list was inspired by Alembika’s curated Foodie Enthusiast shop by occasion collection for the modern food lover!
Whether you’re savoring fine dining experiences or enjoying a leisurely brunch, this collection effortlessly caters to every culinary occasion. From head-turning dresses and gowns to all-day blouses, tunics, trousers and jeans, elevate your style while satisfying your appetite for all kinds of delicious adventures.
Here is a tasty sample of what’s inside:
BOLD DOT, WONDERFUL DRESS, MOON
Made with a woven fabric and embellished with bold polka dots. This easy style is shaped with princess seams, push up the sleeves, a pouf skirt (with hidden elastic in the hem to hold its shape) and our signature pockets.
This top is no ordinary top. It’s a super casual, chic and sophisticated top with many ways to wear it. The quilted black sweatshirt-style pullover has a jersey knit scoop neck, three-quarter sleeves and a roomy silhouette. Wear it on its own or throw it over a top or dress for a fun, layered look.
URBAN TRIBECA T-SHIRT, MONO and URBAN STRIPES LANTERN PANTS, BLACK
This relaxed straight-cut tee has a crew neck, rounded short sleeves, and is made in a soft jersey knit with woven printed accent patterns. The striped high-waisted jersey knit pants have a wide lantern silhouette, all-around elastic waistband, and side pockets.
URBAN OVERSIZED TRAPEZE SHIRT, BLACK and ICONIC STRETCH JEANS, MARBLE
This trapeze tunic shirt has a foldover collar, half button placket with shell buttons, long blousy sleeves with button cuffs and side pockets. Hi-lo curved hem with white patch detail at back. Pair it with our ultra-soft stretch cotton blend, mid-rise waist jeans! Designed with drawstring stretch waist, mock fly, side pockets, yoked back with patch pockets, and rivet trim.
CHARISMA SWING HI-LO TUNIC TOP, GRUNGE
This chic silhouette is one of our most popular styles and is designed in a loose, swingy shape for movement. The flattering bias-cut pullover has a scoop neck, three-quarter set-in sleeves and beautifully draped hip-length hem. The metropolitan-attitude stripes are guaranteed to turn heads. Pair it with leggings or something from our Iconic Stretch Jeans Collection.
Before You Go!
Check out all of Alembika’s collection or, if you’re in NYC, come visit our showroom in the Garment District. Our on-site stylist can help you select special outfits and forever-staples so you look and feel your best.
