Charlie Trotter's: A Pictorial Guide to the Famed Restaurant and Its Cuisine

As a one time chef myself, I can honestly say that Charlie Trotter's has been a big part of my life over the last ten years or so. I remember seeing him ten years ago in a Food Arts magazine and was instantly in love with his food and restaurant. After dining there twice and reading all of his cookbooks I can say one thing, "Charlie Trotter's knows about longevity". This book will give you an insight on how the restaurant was started. It will also show you how Charlie's mother would have never expected him to be one of the top chefs in the country. It's almost scary to look at some of the pictures of Charlie when he was younger. Even some with really long hair. I laughed out loud at a couple. Anyway, if you know anything about this great restaurant, you have to buy this book. You can go to the bookstore to look at it, but I can guarantee you'll buy it. And by all means, if you have never eaten at his restaurant make the trip. You'll love every minute of it. Thank you Charlie for all the great books.

This is the best restaurant book I have ever read. Lawler absolutely brings to life the workings of Chicago's finest eating establishment. Trotter's is one of my all-time favorite places and this book makes it even more special. Super photos, too. A must read for anyone interested in fine dining.

What a wonderful insight into the making of Charlie Trotter's. It's impossible not to be swept away by the stories of what made it all possible and the vision that continues to inspire one of the great restaurants of the world. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in a real behind the scenes look at superior dining in action.

This is a truly great book! It's a glimse into a place that totally understanders excellence. I've dined at the restaurant many times, and I believe this book to be a tremendous reflection of the experience. The place is about intensity, percision, and spontaneity.......and this work absolutely captures it! Not too many places (on the Planet!) get the total dining package.... ...cuisine, ambiance, wine program, and service.....Trotter's does!

I have long enjoyed the pleasures of the table, as evident by my food magazine collection dating from 1978. I am always interested in the behind the scenes action. My wife even bought me dinner in the kitchen (unfortunatly, not at Charlie Trotter's, but a restaurant a little closer to home) for my birthday one year. I have all of Trotter's books and have marveled at the black and white photos. Now I get to see and read in vivid color all about the restaurant and its famous chef. I'll admit - the photos were the biggest hit. My favorite shot is one of a server next to a table, where you can see him but just barely. Stealth service personified! I have experienced the amazing food and service at Trotter's and this book is a wonderful keepsake.