Restaurant: A History of Eating Out

The Restaurant is a fascinating journey through the history of eating out, from the ancient Romans in Pompeii to the luxurious Michelin-starred restaurants of today. It is written by William Sitwell, a restaurant critic for the Daily Telegraph and a famous figure known for his controversial opinions. The book explores the ingenuity of the human race as individuals strive to feed people, and covers art, politics, revolution, desperate need, and decadent pleasure. It is packed with extraordinary facts and is a must-read for anyone who loves to dine out, loves history, or simply loves a good read.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 April 2020
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

The captivating journey of our culinary traditions, from the ancient Romans in Pompeii to the opulent Michelin-starred restaurants of today, is explored in William Sitwell's remarkable book, "The Restaurant: A History of Eating Out." Tracing its origins in the bustling city of Pompeii, where Sitwell is astounded by the sophistication of the dining scene, this historical narrative takes readers on a journey through time, introducing them to the characters and events that have shaped our modern eating habits.

Renowned restaurant critic for the Daily Telegraph and a familiar face in the UK, Sitwell tackles this vast subject with his trademark wit and precision. With a keen eye for influences and a penchant for uncovering unintended consequences, he delves into the rich tapestry of our culinary heritage. From the impact of the French Revolution on nascent fine dining to the post-Second World War dining scene in the UK and the birth of sensitive gastronomy in the US counterculture of the 1960s, Sitwell uncovers the threads that have woven together our culinary traditions.

"The Restaurant" is not just a history of eating out; it is a story of the ingenuity of the human race as individuals strive to fulfill the most fundamental of needs: providing nourishment to others. It is a tale of art, politics, revolution, desperation, and decadent pleasure, all interwoven into the fabric of our culinary history. Sitwell, known for his controversial persona and his love for dining out, offers an accessible and humorous narrative that appeals to anyone with a passion for history, food, or simply a good read.

Packed with extraordinary facts and anecdotes, "The Restaurant" is a book that can be savored from start to finish or enjoyed in delightful moments of dipping in. It serves as a definitive exploration of one of the cornerstones of our culture, offering a glimpse into the evolution of our eating habits and the cultural significance of food. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a curious explorer, this book is a must-read for anyone who desires to deepen their understanding of the rich and diverse world of culinary traditions.

Weight: 854g
Dimension: 247 x 348 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471179617