COOKBOOK REVIEW: DRINKING FRENCH

I have been a Francophile since I tasted my first croissant in the second grade. The crusty outside, buttery flaky inside, and the novelty of such wonder at breakfast took my heart and forever endeared me to the allure of the French cafe lifestyle.
 
When I had the chance to visit Paris in 2015, I was so sure it wouldn't live up to decades of hype that I had built up. I'm happy to report it did. The cafes were charming and oh so French. The rows of bottles behind the bar begged to tell their stories.
 
The moment that I truly fell in love with Paris however was at the Place de la Concorde. It was a frigid February night and we had just savored chocolate crepes and been a bit touristy and taken a ride on the Roue de Paris. I was just soaking in all the Parisian magic when we spotted a stand selling Vin Chaud. The Parisian version of mulled wine under the city lights warmed body and soul and I have been seeking to recreate the magic since.
 
When I learned that David Lebovitz, one of my favorite cookbook authors (and the best source for Americans traveling to France) was publishing another cookbook all about the traditions of french cafes with 160 recipes, I knew I had to purchase it.
 
I've just finished devouring Drinking French, so if you'd like more information here it is!

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About the author: David Lebovitz is a professional cook who moved to Paris in 2004 and began blogging. (If you don't read his blog you should)! He has produced many cookbooks including My Paris Kitchen, and The Perfect Scoop, but I particularly love his memoirs, The Sweet Life in Paris and L'Appart, both of which include recipes in addition to his witty stories. If you are thinking about visiting France or just love all things French, I recommend following him on social media and reading his blog. David has a wonderful way of highlighting the amusing cultural differences between Americans and the French, all the while paying respect to the French culture. ​
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The Book: Drinking French written by David Lebovitz. Published by Ten Speed Press in 2020. It contains over 160 recipes along with stories and anecdotes.
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My favorite weekend morning activity is to pour a cup of coffee and read a cookbook, this is truly a book that can be read, the story it tells is a wonderful history to be enjoyed again and again.
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Sample Recipes:
 
Chocolat Chaud Aux Epices
Rhubarb Cordial
Classic Aviation
Ginger-Rosemary Lemonade
Cornmeal, Bacon, and Sun-Dried Tomato Madeleins
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My Favorite Recipes:
Vin Chaud
Baked Camembert with Walnuts, Figs, and Whiskey Gastrique
 
If you appreciate the beverage culture of France and a good story, this is a cookbook you must buy!