Gift Idea: Foodie Books By Local Authors

I often say my favorite gifts are the edible kind. But next on my list:
books about food. In the spirit of supporting some fabulously talented
local authors, here are some picks for perfectly giftable food books
(some oldies but goodies) from writers and chefs rooted in the DC area:

Boozehound: On the Trail of the Rare, the Obscure, and the Overrated In Spirits
Washington Post spirits columnist Jason Wilson (who calls the Philly area home) takes readers on a boozy trip around the world's spirits market in his new book.

Quiches, Kugels and Cous Cous: My Search for Jewish Cooking In France

The latest from cookbook maven Joan Nathan takes readers into kitchens in Paris, Alsace and the Loire Valley to find the soul of Jewish cooking in France.

Modern Spice: Inspired Indian Flavors for the Contemporary Kitchen

Monica Bhide's fabulous Indian cookbook updates the cuisine for modern tastes.

The Wild Vine: A Forgotten Grape and the Untold Story of American Wine
Washingtonian food and wine editor Todd Kliman explores the history of Virginia's native Norton grape.


Big Night In: More Than 100 Wonderful Recipes for Feeding Family and Friends Italian Style

Local writer Domenica Marchetti offers Italian recipes that would make anyone happy to stay in.



And the local chef cookbooks :

Sweet Magic is Michel Richard's newest cookbook.

Cucina of Le Marche

by Fabio Trabocchi

DamGoodSweet: Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth, New Orleans Style

by David Guas

The Good Stuff Cookbook

by Spike Mendelsohn

Made In Spain: Spanish Dishes for the American Kitchen

by José Andrés

Sweet Magic: Easy Recipes for Delectable Desserts

and Happy in the Kitchen

by Michel Richard



And stay tuned for Washington Post food editor Joe Yonan's forthcoming cookbook, Serve Yourself: Nightly Adventures in Cooking for One.Sweet Magic is Michel Richard's newest cookbook.