Paul, this is a wonderful evocation of Richard and a superb description of everything he meant to you as a cook. I also wrote about him, maybe a year ago, but without your sensitivity, alas. Thank you for this!
My cooking changed once I found Simple French Food in the 70s.
I prefer it to "Menu" because it's even more poetic and instructive with its love of cooking and eating, but in a more casual freer way,
I can turn to any page and keep reading for ages. It's almost rambling in its beauty, but I know that Olney plans everything to perfection. I only met him once in Sydney and regret that I didn't follow up soon enough to an invite to his place at Solliès-Toucas.
Thank you for this article. Richard Olney has been a major influence on my approach to cooking. I have had my copy of the French Menu Cookbook for over 30 years and still reference it. The two most used and tattered books in my library are his Simple French Food, and your Chez Panisse Cooking. Held together with elastic bands and tape, they are essential in my kitchen.
Hi, Paul. I would like to believe that I have fulfilled your wish from the forward to your book when you talk about your grandmother’s gift. I love Cooking by Hand but Chez Panisse Cooking is my go to. All the best for a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.
Paul, this is a wonderful evocation of Richard and a superb description of everything he meant to you as a cook. I also wrote about him, maybe a year ago, but without your sensitivity, alas. Thank you for this!
Found and bought my copy. So looking forward to this.
What a beautiful article. And now to find a copy.
Beautiful Paul. A wonderful read.
My cooking changed once I found Simple French Food in the 70s.
I prefer it to "Menu" because it's even more poetic and instructive with its love of cooking and eating, but in a more casual freer way,
I can turn to any page and keep reading for ages. It's almost rambling in its beauty, but I know that Olney plans everything to perfection. I only met him once in Sydney and regret that I didn't follow up soon enough to an invite to his place at Solliès-Toucas.
Thank you for this article. Richard Olney has been a major influence on my approach to cooking. I have had my copy of the French Menu Cookbook for over 30 years and still reference it. The two most used and tattered books in my library are his Simple French Food, and your Chez Panisse Cooking. Held together with elastic bands and tape, they are essential in my kitchen.
Thank you Neil. I'm glad you've made what sounds like good use of my book.
Hi, Paul. I would like to believe that I have fulfilled your wish from the forward to your book when you talk about your grandmother’s gift. I love Cooking by Hand but Chez Panisse Cooking is my go to. All the best for a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.