20 best books on cooking fiction – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a food lover who also happens to be a bookworm? Then you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about cooking fiction that will satisfy your appetite for both literature and gastronomy. From mouthwatering recipes to captivating stories set in the culinary world, these cooking fiction books will transport you to a world where the aroma of delicious dishes fills the air and the pages of a book come alive with flavors. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into these delectable reads!


The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living

by Louise Miller

The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living is a delightful book about the culinary adventures of a talented pastry chef named Olivia Rawlings. This heartwarming story takes readers on a journey through the world of baking, friendship, and self-discovery.

In this captivating cooking fiction book, Olivia finds herself in a small town in Vermont after a pastry flambé incident at a prestigious Boston club. She starts working at the quaint Sugar Maple Inn and quickly becomes part of the close-knit community. As she bakes her way into the hearts of the townspeople, Olivia discovers the healing power of food and the joy of pursuing her passion.

Along the way, Olivia forms unexpected friendships, including a charming firefighter named Martin and a feisty old woman named Margaret. Through their support and guidance, she learns to embrace the simple pleasures of country living and finds solace in the therapeutic nature of cooking.

The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living is a book on cooking fiction that beautifully intertwines mouthwatering descriptions of delectable treats with a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and second chances. Miller’s vivid storytelling and vivid characters make this novel a delectable treat for foodies and fiction lovers alike.

Sweetbitter

by Stephanie Danler

Sweetbitter is a delectable book about cooking fiction that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart racing. Set in the fast-paced and glamorous world of New York City’s high-end restaurants, this captivating novel follows the journey of Tess, a young woman who stumbles into a job at one of the city’s most renowned eateries.

As Tess dives headfirst into this intoxicating world of food and wine, she quickly learns that there is more to the restaurant industry than just culinary skills. With its vivid descriptions of mouthwatering dishes and the chaotic energy of the kitchen, Sweetbitter takes readers on a sensory adventure that captures the essence of what it means to be a part of the cooking fiction book genre.

But Sweetbitter is not just about food. It delves into the complex relationships and power dynamics that exist within the restaurant industry, as well as the coming-of-age journey of Tess herself. Through her eyes, we witness the highs and lows of working in a demanding and often cutthroat environment, where passion, ambition, and personal growth collide.

Stephanie Danler’s writing is as intoxicating as the fine wines Tess serves, immersing readers in a world that is both glamorous and gritty. With its authentic portrayal of the restaurant industry and its mouthwatering descriptions of food, Sweetbitter is a book on cooking fiction that will leave you hungry for more.

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake

by Amy E. Reichert

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a delightful book about the serendipitous blend of food and love. Amy E. Reichert serves up a tasty tale of romance and culinary magic in this delectable cooking fiction book.

The School of Essential Ingredients

by Erica Bauermeister

The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister is a delectable feast for the senses, a tantalizing exploration of the culinary arts wrapped in a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and human connection. This mouthwatering novel takes readers on a journey through the kitchen, where each dish becomes a metaphor for the characters’ lives, passions, and desires.

Set in a bustling cooking school, this book on culinary fiction introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique story and relationship with food. From the passionate chef who uses her culinary creations to express her love, to the shy teenager who discovers her own voice through the art of cooking, the characters in this cooking fiction book come alive on the pages, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

As the characters navigate the challenges and triumphs of their lives, the cooking school becomes a place of solace and transformation. Through the act of preparing and sharing meals, they not only learn essential ingredients for cooking but also for life itself: patience, forgiveness, resilience, and most importantly, love.

With mouthwatering descriptions of food that will make your stomach rumble, The School of Essential Ingredients is a book about cooking fiction that will leave you hungry for more. So grab a apron, put on your chef hat, and get ready to savor every delectable page of this culinary masterpiece.

The Kitchen House

by Kathleen Grissom

The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom is a captivating book about cooking fiction that takes readers on a journey through the lives of two women, Belle and Lavinia, who are brought together by a shared love for food and a shared desire for freedom.

Set in the early 19th century, the story revolves around the lives of Belle, a black slave working in the kitchen of a Virginia plantation, and Lavinia, a young Irish girl who is orphaned and taken in as an indentured servant.

As Belle teaches Lavinia the art of cooking and the secrets of the kitchen, their bond grows stronger, transcending the boundaries of race and social status. Together, they navigate the complexities of plantation life and face the harsh realities of slavery.

The Kitchen House is not just a cooking fiction book, but a powerful exploration of identity, family, and the resilience of the human spirit. Grissom’s vivid descriptions of mouthwatering meals and the intricate details of plantation life add depth and richness to the narrative, making it impossible to put the book down.

With its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, The Kitchen House is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a touch of culinary magic. So grab a copy, settle in with a cup of tea, and prepare to be transported to a world where food has the power to heal, unite, and ultimately set you free.

The Hundred-Foot Journey

by Richard C. Morais

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a delectable feast of a book that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart warmed. This delightful tale by Richard C. Morais is a true culinary adventure, a book about the power of food to bridge cultures and ignite passions.

Set in the picturesque French countryside, the story revolves around the Kadam family, who leave their native India and embark on a remarkable culinary journey. Armed with their passion for cooking and a secret family recipe, the Kadams open an Indian restaurant just a hundred feet away from a renowned Michelin-starred French restaurant.

What follows is a clash of cultures, a battle of egos, and a tantalizing exploration of the art of cuisine. Morais expertly weaves together the flavors of India and France, creating a truly unique and mouthwatering blend. But beneath the surface, this book is about so much more than food.

It is a story of family, of love, of ambition, and of finding one’s true calling. Through the eyes of the Kadam family, we witness their triumphs and tribulations, their joys and sorrows, and ultimately, their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a celebration of the power of food to heal, to inspire, and to bring people together. It is a book that will transport you to a world of flavors and aromas, where the kitchen becomes a stage for both drama and magic. So grab a seat at the table, and prepare to be enchanted by this delectable cooking fiction book.

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake

by Aimee Bender

Introducing a delectable literary treat that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, Aimee Bender’s The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake serves up a feast of emotions and flavors. This extraordinary novel takes readers on a whimsical journey through the world of cooking fiction, where food becomes a conduit for exploring the intricacies of human relationships and the complexities of self-discovery.

Step into the kitchen of this culinary masterpiece and savor the unique blend of magical realism and poignant storytelling. As the protagonist, Rose Edelstein, bites into a lemon-chocolate cake baked by her mother, she discovers an extraordinary ability: the power to taste the emotions and secrets of the person who made the food. From that moment on, Rose’s life becomes a bittersweet adventure, as she navigates the intricate connections between taste, emotion, and identity.

But this is not merely a book about cooking fiction; it is a profound exploration of the human experience. Through Rose’s extraordinary gift, Bender delves into the depths of love, loss, and longing, crafting a narrative that is as tender as a perfectly cooked soufflé. With each bite, Rose uncovers the hidden layers of her family’s history and grapples with the complexities of her own desires and disappointments.

The prose of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake is as rich and flavorful as the dishes described within its pages. Bender’s exquisite writing style infuses each scene with vivid imagery and sensory detail, allowing readers to taste the emotions alongside the characters. This is a book that will make your mouth water and your heart ache.

So, if you’re craving a unique and thought-provoking read, look no further than this tantalizing cooking fiction book. Savor the flavors of Bender’s imagination and immerse yourself in the particular sadness and sweetness of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake.

The Last Chinese Chef

by Nicole Mones

The Last Chinese Chef is a tantalizing book about cooking fiction that whisks readers into the sumptuous world of Chinese cuisine. Written by Nicole Mones, this culinary masterpiece takes us on a mouth-watering journey through exquisite flavors, family traditions, and the power of food to heal and connect.

The Supper Club

by Lara Williams

The Supper Club is a tantalizing feast for the senses, a culinary journey that combines the art of storytelling with the art of cooking. This delectable novel serves up a delectable blend of flavors, mixing passion, desire, and the power of food to create a truly unforgettable reading experience.

Step into the kitchen of The Supper Club, a secret society where women gather to indulge in their deepest desires and explore the boundaries of pleasure. Led by the enigmatic Roberta, these women use the act of cooking as a means of reclaiming their bodies, their desires, and their lives.

With mouthwatering prose and sumptuous descriptions, Lara Williams weaves a story that is equal parts delicious and provocative. As the women of The Supper Club experiment with flavors, they also grapple with their own desires and identities, diving deep into the complexities of womanhood, sexuality, and self-discovery.

The Supper Club is not just a book about cooking fiction – it is a celebration of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies, but our souls. Williams invites readers to savor every page, immersing themselves in the world of The Supper Club and all the tantalizing delights it has to offer.

The Gourmet

by Muriel Barbery

The Gourmet by Muriel Barbery is an exquisite culinary masterpiece that combines the art of cooking with the enchantment of fiction. This delectable novel takes readers on a gastronomic adventure through the senses, immersing them in a world where food becomes a language of emotions and desires.

The Food of Love

by Amanda Prowse

The Food of Love by Amanda Prowse is a delectable feast for bookworms who crave a taste of cooking fiction. This tantalizing novel whisks readers into the world of Nina, a talented chef with a passion for creating mouth-watering dishes.

As the story unfolds, we are treated to a banquet of emotions, relationships, and of course, delectable recipes. Prowse skillfully blends the art of cooking with the intricacies of human connections, resulting in a truly delicious tale that will leave readers hungry for more.

With its rich characters and sumptuous descriptions, The Food of Love is a veritable treat for foodies and fiction lovers alike. Prowse’s writing is as flavorful as the dishes she describes, making this book about cooking fiction a must-read for anyone who craves a literary feast.

The Recipe Box

by Viola Shipman

Introducing “The Recipe Box” – a delightful culinary journey and a heartwarming tale of family, love, and tradition. If you’re craving a book that combines the deliciousness of cooking with the warmth of fiction, then this is the perfect treat for you.

The Little Paris Bookshop

by Nina George

The Little Paris Bookshop is a delightful tale that combines the love for books and the magic of cooking. This enchanting novel takes readers on a journey through the streets of Paris, as Monsieur Perdu, a literary apothecary, embarks on a quest to heal both his heart and soul.

As a book on cooking fiction, The Little Paris Bookshop invites readers to savor the flavors of life, love, and literature. Monsieur Perdu, the protagonist, possesses a unique gift – he can prescribe the perfect book to mend anyone’s broken heart. Yet, he himself remains haunted by a lost love and a longing for closure.

Driven by his desire to find peace, Monsieur Perdu sets sail on a floating bookstore, filled with literary gems and secret recipes. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters who become his companions on this culinary and emotional adventure. Together, they explore the power of literature, the healing properties of food, and the transformative nature of love.

This book about cooking fiction is a feast for the senses, as Nina George’s vivid descriptions bring the streets of Paris to life. From cozy cafes to bustling markets, readers will be transported to a world where the aroma of freshly baked croissants mingles with the scent of old books.

With its rich blend of romance, friendship, and gastronomy, The Little Paris Bookshop is a true gem for anyone who believes in the power of stories and the magic of a good meal. So, come along on this delectable journey and let Monsieur Perdu guide you towards a recipe for happiness.

The Sweetness of Forgetting

by Kristin Harmel

Discover the delectable world of baking and love in Kristin Harmel’s captivating novel, The Sweetness of Forgetting. This mouthwatering tale combines the irresistible charm of a cooking fiction book with the heartwarming elements of a contemporary romance.

At the heart of the story is Hope McKenna, a talented baker struggling to keep her family’s bakery afloat. When her beloved grandmother, Rose, reveals a long-lost family secret, Hope’s world turns upside down. She discovers a recipe book that not only holds the key to her family’s history but also has the power to heal deep wounds.

As Hope delves into her grandmother’s past, she embarks on a journey that takes her from New York to Paris, uncovering the truth about her family’s past and unearthing a love story that spans generations. Along the way, she learns the importance of forgiveness, the power of second chances, and the sweetness of love.

This book about cooking fiction will tantalize your taste buds with its delectable descriptions of scrumptious pastries and mouthwatering treats. Each chapter is infused with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the warmth of a bustling bakery, making it impossible for readers to resist the urge to grab an apron and head to the kitchen.

The Sweetness of Forgetting is a perfect blend of heart, history, and culinary delights. It will leave you yearning for more as you turn the pages, savoring every sentence like a bite of the most heavenly dessert. So, grab a cup of tea, curl up on the couch, and get ready for a delicious journey through the pages of this cooking fiction book.

The Baker’s Secret

by Stephen P. Kiernan

The Baker’s Secret by Stephen P. Kiernan is a delectable book about cooking fiction that will leave you hungry for more. Set in a small French village during World War II, this captivating novel follows the story of Emma, the village baker, as she navigates the challenges and hardships of daily life under Nazi occupation.

With mouthwatering descriptions of freshly baked bread and tantalizing pastries, this cooking fiction book serves up a feast for the senses. But it’s not just about the food – it’s about the resilience of the human spirit and the power of small acts of defiance in the face of adversity.

As Emma secretly begins adding extra ingredients to her bread, she becomes a symbol of hope and resistance for her fellow villagers. Through her quiet acts of rebellion, she shows that even in the darkest times, there is still room for kindness, compassion, and the simple joys of a warm loaf of bread.

The Baker’s Secret is a beautifully written and heartwarming book on cooking fiction that will transport you to a time and place where even the simplest pleasures become acts of courage. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let this enchanting tale whisk you away to a world where love, food, and the power of the human spirit can overcome even the toughest of challenges.

The Art of French Kissing

by Brianna R. Shrum

The Art of French Kissing is a delectable feast for foodies and fiction lovers alike. This tantalizing book on culinary storytelling takes readers on a mouthwatering adventure filled with delectable recipes, sizzling romance, and savory characters. Prepare to be whisked away on a journey that combines the art of cooking with the art of love in this delectable cooking fiction book. Indulge in a story that will leave you hungry for more!

The Lost Recipe for Happiness

by Barbara O’Neal

Introducing a delightful tale of culinary enchantment!

Step into the tantalizing world of “The Lost Recipe for Happiness” – a captivating book about cooking fiction that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart yearning for more.

Follow the journey of Elena Alvarez, a talented chef who finds solace in the kitchen after a heartbreaking tragedy. As she seeks to rebuild her life, Elena discovers a hidden treasure – an old recipe book filled with secrets and stories from generations past.

With every turn of the page, Elena embarks on a culinary adventure that takes her from bustling kitchens to picturesque vineyards, and all the way to the charming streets of Paris. Along the way, she encounters a cast of vibrant characters, each with their own recipe for happiness.

As Elena immerses herself in the art of cooking, she not only discovers the power of food to heal, but also the magic of love and second chances. With every dish she creates, she weaves together the flavors of her past, present, and future, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you hungry for more.

If you’re a fan of cooking fiction books, then “The Lost Recipe for Happiness” is a delectable treat that you won’t want to miss. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready for a literary feast that will satisfy both your appetite and your soul.

The Secret Ingredient of Wishes

by Susan Bishop Crispell

Step into a world where magic and cooking collide in the enchanting novel, The Secret Ingredient of Wishes by Susan Bishop Crispell. This tantalizing tale serves up a delectable blend of whimsy, romance, and mouthwatering dishes that will leave readers hungry for more.

In this mesmerizing book on culinary enchantment, we meet Rachel Monroe, a young woman who possesses a unique gift – her wishes have the power to come true through her cooking. With each carefully crafted dish, Rachel infuses her desires and dreams, creating a world where the impossible becomes possible. But when tragedy strikes her small town of Nowhere, North Carolina, Rachel’s ability to make wishes come true is put to the ultimate test.

As Rachel navigates the challenges of loss, love, and self-discovery, she discovers that her gifts are not only limited to her own wishes. Alongside her best friend, Julia, and the charming town veterinarian, Ashe, Rachel embarks on a journey to uncover the secret ingredient of wishes and restore the magic that once thrived in Nowhere.

This captivating book about cooking fiction will transport readers to a world where food has the power to heal, ignite passion, and bring people together. With each turn of the page, readers will be enveloped in a spellbinding story of love, friendship, and the extraordinary power of the culinary arts.

Prepare to be whisked away on a delectable adventure as you dive into The Secret Ingredient of Wishes – a cooking fiction book that will leave you craving for more.

The Kitchen Counter Cooking School

by Kathleen Flinn

Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure? Look no further than The Kitchen Counter Cooking School by Kathleen Flinn. This captivating book on cooking fiction will whisk you away into the world of food and flavors, where ordinary people discover extraordinary talents in the kitchen.

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake

by Amy E. Reichert

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a delightful book about the serendipitous magic that can happen in the world of culinary creations. This book on cooking fiction brings together the flavors of romance, food, and unexpected twists in a delectable combination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about cooking fiction are a must-read for any food lover and bookworm alike. From mouthwatering recipes to captivating stories, these books offer a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and storytelling. Whether you’re looking for a cozy mystery set in a bakery or a heartwarming tale about the power of food, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a cup of tea, curl up with one of these books, and let your imagination take you on a delicious journey through the world of books about cooking fiction.