Valvona & Crolla (A Year at an Italian Table)

Founded in 1934 by the Continis' ancestors, Italian shop and restaurant Valvona & Crolla is legendary in food circles for its excellence, and has been described as "the Sistine chapel of continental delis." Now, co-owner Mary presents 200 delicious, authentic recipes from around the country of her heritage. Starting with the festive flavors of winter, such as a creamy chestnut soup with smoked pancetta; moving on to the best of spring's vegetables with a broad bean and spinach frittata; fresh seafood dishes in the summer; and finishing with the truffles, olive pressings, and slow-cooked casseroles of the autumn, this beautifully written and evocatively photographed book adds up to a food diary of personal stories, history, anecdotes, and recipes, all imbued with the warmth and local knowledge that only a true Italian family, passionate about food, can deliver.