The Food of Paradise: Exploring Hawaii’s Culinary Heritage

Recent winner of a prestigious award from the Julia Child Cookbook Awards, presented by the International Association of Culinary Professionals. Lauden was given the 1997 Jane Grigson Award, presented to the book that, more than any other entered in the competition, exemplifies distinguished scholarship.

Hawaii has one of the richest culinary heritages in the United States. Its contemporary regional cuisine, known as “local food” by residents, is a truly amazing fusion of diverse culinary influences. Rachel Laudan takes readers on a thoughtful, wide-ranging tour of Hawaii's farms and gardens, fish auctions and vegetable markets, fairs and carnivals, mom-and-pop stores and lunch wagons, to uncover the delightful complexities and incongruities in Hawaii's culinary history.

More than 150 recipes, photographs, a bibliography of Hawaii's cookbooks, and an extensive glossary make The Food of Paradise an invaluable resource for cooks, food historians, and Hawaiiana buffs.

• Rachel Laudan, Author

• Marvelous.... The 150-odd recipes constitute a matching jumble. They are as cheerfully lawless a bunch as I've seen in any cookbook.
  —Los Angeles Times
• The best book of its kind available... Read the sections on Spam, shave ice, crack seed and mochi for a delightful insight to the curious treats that comprise true Island cuisine. Never pedantic, always entertaining... the result of careful research yet not intimidating. Here is a book to savor, a book to share with those who love the Islands and its food as much as you do.
  —Honolulu Weekly
• Definitive. A delightful collection of recipes, history, humor and insight.
  —Honolulu Magazine