‘Good cooking is where you find it’
We all know Vincent Price as the King of Horror, but did you know the Master of the Macabre was also a self-confessed foodie whose tastes ranged from the haute cuisine of Europe’s finest restaurants to the mouth-watering Dodger Stadium hot dogs.
Having travelled the world while appearing in his many film roles, Vincent and his second wife Mary produced – in 1965 – what was perhaps the first celebrity cook: A Treasury of Great Recipes, a 465-page compilation packed with original menus and recipes from famous restaurants, chefs, bistros and even a museum, all written in in simplified, unpretentious forms that anyone can make and enjoy.
Selected from London’s The Ivy, Madrid’s Palace Hotel, New York’s Sardi’s, and other legendary establishments, the recipes are accompanied by witty commentaries, while color photos and atmospheric drawings by Fritz Kredel make this one of the most beautiful books of its kind. It certainly captured an era, and afforded readers a glimpse into the celebrity lifestyle of the Prices.
As the couple so eloquently stated, ‘The purpose of this book is to invite you to dine, wine, break bread, partake with us of our favorite dishes gleaned from kitchens all over the world… Behind the scenes we’ve met the alchemists in tall, white hats who have initiated us into their mysteries.’
A Treasury of Great Recipes has come to be regarded as ‘one of the most important culinary events of the 20th century’ (according Saveur Magazine) and was named the eighth most popular out-of-print book of any kind by Booklist in 2014. It has also inspired countless chefs, garnered fans from around the world, and today has spawned many supper clubs who have been ‘cooking and eating Vincent’ around the world.
In September 2015, Calla Editions of Dover Press is reprinting the 50th anniversary edition of the classic, with a comprehensive new preface by Vincent and Mary’s daughter, Victoria Price, who will be attending events in the US and the UK throughout 2015 to tie in with the reprint of her parent’s cookbook. Celebrated American chef Wolfgang Puck has also written the new introduction.
As part of the Vincent Price London Legacy Tour, Harrods will be the setting for the exclusive UK launch on Saturday 7 November of the 50th anniversary reprint, and you’re invited to join us for a special breakfast and a tour of the iconic Food Halls, where you’ll be able to purchase a copy of the book signed by Victoria. Tickets are £90 (excluding fees) and are strictly limited to just 25. CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW
And the fun doesn’t stop there as Locale bar and restaurant near the iconic London Eye on the Southbank will be the setting for Vincent Price’s Treasury Taster starting 7pm on Saturday 7 November, where you can sample a selection of great dishes inspired by Vincent and Mary’s acclaimed tome, plus there’s specially-themed cocktails on offer and el diabolik spinning some wicked tunes. Tickets are just £25 (excluding fees). CLICK TO BUY NOW.