“A landmark. [American Taste] encompasses an admirable range of thoughts on food ranging from fried chicken and barbecues to Bourbon to game and caviar. A banquet for your library.”—Craig Claiborne

“American Taste makes us savor the thought of good food, good living, and the joys of the good life. A delicious volume!”—James Beard



In his acclaimed American Taste, renowned food writer James Villas shares his passions for food and drink—both the humble and the sophisticated—in essays including “Understanding Fried Chicken,” “Upgrading Hash,” and “Cornflakes Be Damned!” From his homage to asparagus to his treatise on french fries, Villas regales us with tales of American gastronomy from the perspective of a respectful gourmand and hired palate. American Taste is a new American classic.