Customer Reviews

Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles Cookbook

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I am a huge fan of Anthony Bourdain since watching his show. This book is a collection of recipes from his time at Les Halles. The recipes might be a little complicated to the novice chef, but I've found that with due diligence, you can master them. I highly recommend this one, along with his other read, Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly.

After watching Anna & Christina with recommendation to buy this book I thought I'd give it a trial, and after using a few of his recipes, I like it.

I received this book as a Christmas present and have so far only cooked 3 of the recipes, but each time I taste one of these incredible, delicious, fantastic and mind blowing dishes I think; MY GOD!!! I *BLEEPING* LOVE YOU TONY!!!!!
I definitely recommend this book for the foodie in your life.

I love Bourdain's sarcastic approach to the pretentions of professional cooking. He's a famous chef (thanks to his TV appearences and best-selling books), and sure he's cashing in on that notoriety by slapping his name and mug all over this new cookbook, but it's a great cookbook to have. This volume gathers loads of classic bistro recipes in a single source, which is hardly original. What sets this book apart is Bourdain's attitude. He is at his snarky best, but also delivers straightforward directions that any kitchen monkey could follow. I've already tried several recipes and had a grand old time. A great gift for budding chefs who hate the pomposity of "professional" cookbooks.

I see most of Anthony Bourdain’s books as autobiographical travelogues. But, for me, this one is first and foremost a cookout and a reference. It is simple, excellent bistro style cooking that I remember from when Les Halles was still the traditional 800 year old central food market in Paris.
Those who were not in Paris prior to 1971 will not remember when the Les Halles bistros were places to eat for the market workers and the ‘Irma la Douces’ on the surrounding streets. Now most in that area are tourist traps with expensive, poorly made onion soup and 'atmosphere'.
Anthony’s book takes me back to simple but delicious steak frites and Mussels in wine. Perhaps a trip to New York to eat in Brasserie Les Halles is in order.

If you've watch Bourdain on TV & liked him, this books for you! He writes like he acts in real life. His recipes are simple French Cooking & country cooking at that.
Easier cooking instructions then Julia Child & just as flavorful. In this book Anthony holds your hand & takes you step by step to insure your efforts are rewarded by the most delightful Bistro Meals you''ll ever have. Better then most restaurants (by the way they are the recipes from Le Halles).

There are recipes in there that my mother made when I was growing up & we were poor. But how poor were we really when the cooking was soooo outstanding. Yes she used tongue, liver, tripe, etc. It was a way of life & I'm glad I had the opportunity to experience it. This book shares a section of that type of cooking BUT THE REST OF THE BOOK really gives you perfectly simple meals to make, which will make you, look like a PRO.

The instructions from Anthony are clear & decisive. The ONLY thing that would make it easier is, IF HE COOKED IT FOR YOU!