American Gourmet----the Book

Just picked up this book by the Sterns and I'm really enjoying it. I've already used the fondue recipes for last Saturday night's dinner and everyone loved it. I'm curious of any one else's reaction to the book----and also wondering why it's not listed under publications here. I especially enjoyed the section on TV chefs-----allowed me to understand much more why the new stars have developed the way they did. Thanks Jane and Michael!

I do have this one. I don't use it as much as the others, but Graham Kerr is in it and that's alright by me.

American Gourmet is out of print, which probably takes it out of consideration from being listed with the other pubs, which are all available through normal channels.

quote:

Originally posted by EdSails

I'm curious of any one else's reaction to the book----and also wondering why it's not listed under publications here.

American Gourmet rules. I think it was my first introduction to the Sterns' work. It's delightfully tacky in any number of ways.

Eric, Delightfully Tacky Himself

Amazon has some used copies of the book. Thinking about ordering one now.

There are lots of used copies on half.com, too. As low as 2.99 for brand new, too. Hmmmmm....

I am going to have to find one. I think my first Stern book was "Square Meals", and I was hooked.

Square Meals was my first also. I can't tell you how much I loved (and still love) that book. I bet I bought about 20 copies to give as gifts. The best part was seeing some illustrations from recipe booklets I had in my collection. It's still my favorite of all but American Gourmet is up there too.

Ah, for the days of Tiki Bars and Flaming Everythings.

I still have 2 of the "Buddha" cups from Benihanas that they used for mai tais. Guess all I need are the little umbrellas and I'll be set!

Edsails- I believe I have some tikki torches somewhere in my garage...we could throw a party just like mom and dad used to!

Actually, Tiki Bars and Polynesian Restaurants are staging a comeback. There are a few in Manhattan and one opened in Northeast Philly that is crowded every night. In the Philly area in the 50's and 60's, we had the Pub Tiki in Center City and the Kona Kai at The Marriott on City Line Avenue. The new polynesian restaurant in Philly has that name and a chef there used to be at the Kona Kai. I always liked Trader Vic's in the L.A. area.

I'll bring the rumaki!

TIKI is huge here! I just had chi-chis at Damon;s steakhouse in Glendale, one of the few holdouts (Kelbos and Mishimas are long gone, but Trader Vics remains). I was surprised when searching the Stearn's names how prolific and varied their writing is...food, Elvis, dogs, there is alot out there!

I enjoy reading the old menus for sale on e-bay and most Tiki ones always go for high prices, especially those from non-chains.