100 Years of Food Writing at the New Yorker: M.F.K. Fisher, Calvin Trillin and A.J. Liebling

'The Lower East Side: A Sunday Morning Tale' is an essay by Calvin Trillin celebrating the culinary delights and cultural vibrancy of New York City's Lower East Side. Trillin recounts his quest for the perfect bagel and cream cheese, lamenting the closing of his favorite cheese store. He vividly describes the bustling atmosphere of Russ & Daughters, a beloved appetizing store, highlighting its role as a community gathering place. Through his humorous and affectionate prose, Trillin captures the essence of the Lower East Side and its enduring appeal as a culinary haven.

A. J. Liebling's 'An Appetite for Paris' is a delightful exploration of Parisian cuisine and culture through the eyes of a seasoned food lover. Liebling recounts his culinary adventures in post-war Paris, savoring the city's diverse offerings from humble bistros to elegant restaurants. With vivid descriptions and witty anecdotes, he captures the essence of French gastronomy and its central role in Parisian life. The book celebrates the simple pleasures of eating well and the importance of shared meals in forging human connections. Through Liebling's engaging prose, readers are transported to the heart of Parisian culinary traditions, experiencing the joys of food and companionship.

'Notes on Cravings' is an essay by M.F. K. Fisher exploring the deep connections between food, memory, and desire. Fisher delves into the physical and emotional aspects of cravings, from simple comfort foods to extravagant indulgences. She reflects on how specific tastes and smells can evoke powerful memories and emotions, shaping our relationships with food. The essay blends personal anecdotes with insightful observations on the psychology of eating, revealing how cravings can provide both pleasure and profound meaning. Fisher's evocative prose invites readers to contemplate their own culinary desires and the stories they tell.

Home Cooking is a unique blend of memoir and cookbook, where Laurie Colwin shares her passion for food, cooking, and entertaining. The book includes 33 essays that range from basic recipes like fried chicken and potato salad to more special topics such as 'How to Avoid Grilling' and 'Kitchen Horrors. ' Colwin's writing is warm, generous, and down-to-earth, making the book a delight for both amateur cooks and food lovers. It features personal stories of culinary successes and disasters, as well as practical and achievable recipes that reflect her family favorites and cooking experiences in various settings, from a tiny apartment to bustling parties.