My new cookbook!
“George, you have an amazing palette! You actually tasted the coriander in the rub?” my friend asked after he offered a bite of duck he’d cooked. Yes, I did taste it. I’ve always been able to detect such things, which helps me know when a plate succeeds. That’s been my guiding principle as I’ve collected and written recipes throughout my life — editing for what hits.
This is the culmination, the best of hundreds of notes and recipes in my files and on my computer. All handsomely photographed and thoughtfully designed to inspire.
I’m really excited about this book, which I wrote, designed, and photographed. I’ve dreamed of this project for a long time, and I’m super happy to offer it to you now!
Available late May 2025
Great food, plus lots of extras
I love layering flavors and building them into memorable bites, as you’ll see in my modern twists on American classics. But I’ve kept an eye on reasonably healthy eating, too. Mashed potatoes without heavy cream? Yes — they’re delicious when topped with sautéed scallions and mushrooms, and, of course, butter (I said reasonably healthy eating).
I think you’ll also enjoy many step-by-step tutorials with photos to guide you along the way. How to chop dates? Done. Dice a mango? Done. I’ve also included notes on best practices and quality ingredients. As a bonus, some recipes include wine pairings by my friend and wine expert Evan McCormack.
Alongside the dishes, I’ve woven in several personal essays, sharing my love for food and the joy of bringing people together through hospitality. For me, cooking isn’t just about food — it’s about the experience, the memories, and the warmth shared around the table.
I’m thrilled to bring this labor of love to you and hope it inspires you to cook, share, and savor the moments that matter most.
You’ll find—
Easy-to-follow directions
Illustrated how-to’s
Photos of methods and finished plates
Home-made pizza chapter
Wine guide and pairing notes by Evan McCormack
12-page section on kitchen tips and cooking habits
Fun, interesting sidebars
Kitchen appliance guide
45 recipes, each with a mini-editorial
Hardcover, 208 pages, 7.8 in. wide x 10.7 in. tall
Download a FREE recipe below!
Table of Contents
Preview pages
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The most beautiful cookbook I’ve ever seen!
/ Michael C. /
inside cover description
Whether you’re making his rosemary-rubbed, garlic-glazed pork shoulder or the deliciously rich Mornay sauce for his very adult take on macaroni and cheese, you’ll see that accomplished home cook George Stilabower lives his cooking creed on every page of this book:
Elevate your joy. Love your time in the kitchen.
His straightforward directions and enticing photography will certainly invite you to embrace his creed. In an often humorous voice, he speaks simply and confidently to help you turn out dishes the way he wants you to make them — beautifully composed and full of restaurant-quality flavor.
George’s upbringing in the Midwest, surrounded by great home-cooking, kicked off a passion that he’s nurtured through his stays in Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, and New York, his current home. Throughout his time in these diverse food metropolises, every cooking and dining adventure helped build his palate into a lively ensemble of zesty rhythms and easy harmonies that contribute to his tantalizing, updated classics.
You’ll find generous how-tos and tips throughout, plus several historical notes meant to bring a smile. In all, this portfolio of well-crafted and thoroughly tested recipes will inspire you to fall in love with new favorites for special family meals, casual gatherings, and lively parties with friends.
