Best French Cooking, Food & Wine Books of 2026

The New French Wine [Two-Book Boxed Set]: Redefining the World's Greatest Wine Culture is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to contemporary French wines and producers. With over 800 producers and 7,000 wines featured, the book takes readers on a tour of every wine region of France. The first book provides a thoroughly reported narrative overview of each region, while the second book is a comprehensive reference guide to the producers and their wines. The book is packaged in a deluxe slipcase and features evocative photography and maps. This is an essential read for wine lovers and aspiring wine enthusiasts alike.

This two-volume set of the acclaimed cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, is a must-have for any fan of Julia Child and lover of French cuisine. The first volume contains over 500 savory recipes, while the second volume presents an additional 250 recipes that take the home cook's skills to the next level. The precise instructions and detailed line drawings make even the most daunting recipes approachable. Julia Child's impact on American cuisine is immeasurable, and this cookbook is a testament to her immense talent and passion for French cooking.

The Complete Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners: 2000 Days Super Easy & Mouthwatering Recipes for Living and Eating Well Every Day is a comprehensive guide to the Mediterranean diet, featuring 30-day meal plans and over 2000 easy-to-follow recipes. From breakfast to dessert, this cookbook offers a variety of delicious and nutritious recipes that cater to all dietary needs. The recipes are authentic and flavorful, making it a must-have for anyone looking to incorporate more Mediterranean cuisine into their diet. Overall, the book is an excellent resource for those looking to live a healthier lifestyle while enjoying delicious food.

The "Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Volume I: 50th Anniversary Edition: A Cookbook" is a classic cookbook that has been the definitive guide on French cuisine for American readers for over sixty years. The book features 524 delicious recipes and over 100 instructive illustrations to guide readers every step of the way. Julia Child, Simone Beck, and Louisette Bertholle break down the classic foods of France into a logical sequence of themes and variations, making it accessible to seasoned experts and beginners alike. This book is a must-have in every kitchen and is packed with sumptuous recipes, detailed instructions, and precise line drawings.

Simple French Baking by Manon Lagrève is a delightful introduction to the world of French baking. With over 80 recipes, this book simplifies the art of baking elegant French pastries and desserts. Manon's family recipes, which were handed down by her mother and grandmothers, are perfect for sharing with loved ones. The book includes classic recipes like brioche, éclairs, and macarons, as well as some unique twists on French favorites. This book is suitable for bakers of all levels, and Manon's secret shortcuts and tips make it even more accessible. Overall, Simple French Baking is a charming cookbook that proves that anyone can make authentic French treats at home.

The French Laundry Cookbook by Thomas Keller is a must-have for any home cook looking to elevate their culinary skills. This cookbook showcases the genius of Keller himself, offering a series of small, impeccable, highly refined, and intensely focused courses. The recipes are exact recipes from the French Laundry kitchen, with no shortcuts taken and all thoroughly tested in home kitchens. From innovative soup techniques to breathtaking desserts, this cookbook captures the essence of one of America's greatest restaurants and its chef. The French Laundry Cookbook is a transformative cookbook that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of French cuisine.

The Mediterranean Air Fryer Cookbook is a comprehensive guide that offers 365 days of healthy and crispy recipes ready in less than 30 minutes. The book is perfect for those who want to take care of their well-being but don't have much time to cook. The author provides all the necessary information about the Mediterranean diet and how to use the Air Fryer. The book includes recipes for breakfast, dinner, snacks, appetizers, mains, poultry, beef, fish and seafood, vegetables, and more. With easy-to-follow instructions and nutritional values for each recipe, this book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to transform their meals into delicious and crispy dishes. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone looking for a simple, healthy, and tasty way to cook their food without feeling guilty.

An American in Provence: Art, Life and Photography is a delightful combination of art book, travelogue, memoir, and cookbook. Jamie Beck's stunning photography takes readers on a journey to the South of France, where she documents her life as an American in Provence. Her tips and techniques for photography, along with her farm-to-table recipes, make this book a must-have for art lovers, Francophiles, and foodies alike. This visually stunning book is a perfect escape to immerse oneself in the beauty of Provence.

The Champagne [Boxed Book & Map Set] by Peter Liem is an essential guide for anyone interested in the modern wines of Champagne. The book provides extensive profiles of growers and vintners, along with a fascinating history of the region. The luxurious box set also includes a complete set of seven vintage vineyard maps, a rare and indispensable resource that beautifully documents the region’s terroirs. The book won several awards, including the 2018 James Beard Foundation Cookbook Award, and is sure to become an essential reference for Champagne lovers and all wine enthusiasts.

The French Patisserie: Master Recipes and Techniques from the Ferrandi School of Culinary Arts is an ultimate reference for aspiring pastry chefs. The book covers everything from basic techniques to Michelin-level desserts, including essential doughs, fillings, and decorations. It also provides practical information in tables, diagrams, and sidebars for easy reference. The easy-to-follow recipes are graded for the level of difficulty, allowing readers to develop their skills over time. This patisserie bible is a must-have for amateur home chefs and experienced pâtissiers alike. The book is simply supreme and the best pastry book of the 21st century, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.