Reviews for Picnics

The average rating for Picnics based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2016-04-14 00:00:00 Beverly Titel This was mentioned offhandedly in the book about the founding of Alinea, a world-renowned Chicago restaurant (that I still haven't been to). This has little in common with other "food writing" I've encountered. The seemingly-pretentious title gives way to a charming essay collection featuring culinary experiences from days long past. The author, Joseph Wechsberg, recounts his personal tragedies related to WWI and WWII. Thankfully, he had the presence of mind to capture many of the culturally-significant gastronomical achievements of Europe pre-WWII while paying respects to his heritage. This book preserves and glorifies lost traditions from Prague, Paris, Budapest, Vienne, Vienna, and many other places. Incredible men, women, restaurants, and anecdotes that would have been lost to time. I emphasize: for many of these restaurants and restauranteurs, I would have trouble believing that Mr. Wechsberg's accounts aren't the most historically significant accounts in existence. The stories that seem more academic in tone are amusing and highly educational. For example, the book contains all you need to know about truffles, foie gras, wine, and more minute culinary treasures. Ah, if only I could appreciate the parts that haven't been translated from French.

Review # 2 was written on 2016-12-20 00:00:00 Pam Mcewin This had been on my shelf for years, recommended by Jeremiah Tower in the incredible bibliography to his California Dish. Wechsberg has proved a wonderful salve in COVID time. Reading about Viennese tafelspitz and other varieties of boiled beef, truffles, foie gras, incredible wines, the early Michelin guides. Wechsberg is charming, with tongue firmly in cheek and just a hint of dad-joke humor. Some of the pieces have aged better than others, in particular his memoirs of Paris and Vienna & the Fernand Point profile. Recommended for food/wine lovers.