Finding a good book to guide you through the world of cocktails has become easier than ever, but with that ease also comes confusion. I will be putting together a list of books I’ve curated over the years and explain what I have used them for and their contents, with luck you’ll find something that will help you on your journey of discovery.
The Bar Book by Jeffery Morgenthaler
The Bar Book is the book that really changed a lot of things for me. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone back to reference this book. For the experienced bartender nothing in this book will be new, but it will provide a better perspective. Jeffrey Morgenthaler does all the hard work to answer question you may not have asked before. If you technique was good before this book will guide you to make it better. Also the ginger beer recipe is brilliant. Definitely give it a look, you can click on the image to pick it up.
The Flavor Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg
Confidence comes through experience, sometimes the experience of others gives you the confidence you need. The Flavor Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg does exactly that. I can not stress how invaluable this resource is. All the flavor combinations that you never thought of are quantified in a brilliant layout. These are flavor ideas curated by chefs and writers. Every competition I have won has a direct line to this book. For example, did you know you could pair banana with parsley? If you get one book to help you design cocktail or even work on a new dinner idea definitely get this book. Click on the image to pick it up.
Northeast Medicinal Plants by Liz Neves
Okay, this one is a little different but incredible valuable. Northeast Medicinal Plants by Liz Neves is a foragers bible, and although it’s focused on the northeast of the united states, it does share light on plants you may have never glanced at. She goes on to detail the best times to cultivate, the best soil conditions and best ways to extract the vital flavors of your finds. This book is extensive, and there are some native plants that are missing, but with what she has provided you, there is no way you would be disappointed. First half of the book reads like a sage passing down some ancient wisdom followed by a thorough collection of information. This book is a little niche, but if you have ever had the curiosity to learn about the flora in your backyard I definitely suggest this pick up. Click on the image to snag it.
The New Food Lover’s Companion
No doubt if you’re here you have hospitality experience, either as a guest or as a employee. So why am I telling you to get a food dictionary? Because it’s a food dictionary, it’s okay not to have all the answers and in a world of online searches sometimes you need your information to be tangible and accessible. Plus a book doesn’t require Wi-Fi. The New Food Lover’s Companion is a reference book like no other, click on the image to pick it up today.
The Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock
Where would I be without this book? The Savoy Cocktail book is filled with classic recipes that you are familiar with, probably have heard of before but never saw them in their original context. Take the French 75 for example, for the longest time I figured, it was to be served in a champagne flute, but here Harry Craddock has it built over ice, just like a collins! It’s always great to innovate, reframe and redesign cocktails, but sometimes you need a foundation and structure and The Savoy Cocktail book is one such source. Click on the image to pick one up today.
A THEORY OF EVERYTHING. 