As an essential primer of immediately useful and utterly relevant guidance, this guide can help anyone become a better cook -- without a single recipe. The book's 217 notes deliver indispensable culinary truths, the highest standards of conduct, and timeless gems of cooking wisdom that have been taught and passed down by top chefs for generations. The notes provide explanatory commentary, helpful examples, and insights from Alice Waters, Daniel Boulud, Georges Auguste Escoffier, Leonardo da Vinci, and many others. They also include life lessons -- about how to bring delight, how to recognise quality, and how to see beauty in simplicity. For the beginner wanting to improve, the seasoned expert looking to review the highest culinary standards, or the food lover seeking a fascinating glimpse into the pursuit of Epicurean excellence, Notes on Cooking provides a unique and invaluable apprenticeship.

Author Biography

Lauren Braun Costello is the owner and executive chef of Gotham Caterers in New York City. She is a private chef, instructor, and a food stylist for national television broadcasts, including the Early Show on CBS, ABC's the View, and CNN's dLife. Russell Reich is a writer and creative director. They both live in New York City.