Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)As a resident of San Francisco who loves his city, I am hardly the most objective reviewer of this book, but I do think this is a worthy if rather cursory overview of the culinary treats and idiosyncratic dining experiences that make up the best of what this city has to offer to local and tourist alike. Chuck Williams has established one of the more unavoidable upscale gourmet store chains in Williams-Sonoma, and this tome is the latest in a series of cookbooks focused on the premiere food capitals of the world. The first third is actually a well-organized explanation of what makes San Francisco unique from its culinary history to the distinctive flavors currently found in its major neighborhoods. There are sections on local specialties such as artisan bread, coffee, wine, Asian produce and chocolate. The breezy but informative text is by Janet Fletcher.
The recipes actually don't start until page 79, but the 45 selections all look tasty and not overly complex to prepare. I have always had good luck with the recipes in the Williams-Sonoma catalog, and this one is proving to be no exception so far. Personally I have tried making the orecchiette with broccoli rabe; the braised chicken with tomato, pancetta and zinfandel; and the stir-fried long beans with Thai chile paste. All were hits with friends, though I would think items such as Chinese long beans may be harder to find outside the major metropolitan areas. There are even snippets of local information interspersed among the recipes. The book is also abundant in nice color photographs courtesy of Jean-Blaise Hall, though I wish the editors would have included captions so you know where some of the places are. Highly recommended for those who left their palettes in San Francisco.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Williams-Sonoma Foods of the World: San Francisco: Authentic Recipes Celebrating the Foods of the World
An insider's guide to the recipes, ingredients, and traditions that define international city cuisine, the Foods of the World series is the definitive cookbook collection for anyone passionate about food and travel. Richly photographed, with over 45 authentic recipes and in-depth culinaryfeatures, each book brings readers closer to the best eating experiences each city has to offer from a culinary authority Americans trust.From artisan sourdough bread to seasonal produce and seafood, San Francisco is a serious food town. The city's distinctive cuisine is highlighted in dishes like Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan, Cioppino, and Plum and Blackberry Sorbet.Key Features:* Add simple, fresh recipes such as Beet, Fennel, and Avocado Salad with Ricotta Salata or Meyer Lemon Pots de Crème with Raspberry Sauce to your culinary repertoire* Discover the roots of an ever-growing culinary trend toward artisan-made foods and organic seasonal produce * Read about how chefs combine innovation and simplicity at some of the most notable restaurants in the United States
