Jason Hammel is the self-taught executive chef/owner of Lula Cafe, which opened in Chicago s Logan Square in 1999. He has also opened Marisol at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. He has received numerous awards and presented widely, including at MAD, the pioneering biannual food festival and organization. He graduated from Brown University and received a master s degree in writing. He is a mentor for cooks in the Midwest and founded the nonprofit food education program Pilot Light.
‘[This book] suggest[s] you make a few plates, invite friends over,
and have an easy but delicious meal together.’ – Food & Wine
‘The dishes … range in complexity but are consistently emblematic
of Hammel’s knack for unusual flavor combinations … evocative
writing.’ – T List, New York Times Magazine‘Whether you’re a
devoted follower or an admirer from afar, this book really captures
the essence of the popular neighborhood hangout so that you can
recreate the vibe at home.’ – VICE'No need to wait in the endless
brunch lines anymore; now Lula Cafe can be wherever you are.' –
Saveur‘It takes more than good food for a restaurant to have
staying power...It takes family energy, and that’s what Jason and
the whole staff bring.’ — Nick Cave, artist
‘This book feels just like Lula Cafe’s food, nourishing and
friendly and made with care.’ – Ira Glass, host of This American
Life
'More than just ingredients, it is an accumulation of knowledge,
sourcing, collaboration, farms, orchards, fields, and
artistry.” – New York Journal of Books
‘The long-awaited compendium from Chicago’s seminal Lula Cafe.’ –
domino
‘A colorful, conversational, idea-pricking cookbook is always a
welcome host gift, and this one—hits all the right notes.’ – Vanity
Fair
'An eagerly awaited tome among the many fans of [Hammel's]
game-changing, all-day neighborhood restaurant ... The cookbook
isn’t an introductory cooking text but rather a writerly depiction
of the essence of Lula and the community that has made it a local
legend.' – Eater Chicago
'Hammel has stories—and there’s probably no working chef better
equipped to tell them. Told between the covers of a thick,
beautifully photographed Phaidon art book, it’s the testament this
venerated Chicago institution deserves.' – Chicago Reader ‘The
rare warmth, heart, and deliciousness that have kept Lula Cafe
vital for over two decades are in these pages. Jason isn't the kind
of chef that is out to impress, though he always does. His passion
is to nourish and bring joy—and this book effortlessly shows you
how to do the same, for yourself and for those you love.’
– Ignacio Mattos, chef of Estela, Altro Paradiso, Lodi, and
Corner Bar
'I have been waiting for this book for so long. Lula Cafe is one of
my favorite restaurants ever, so it’s a real treat to have some
insight into how Jason and his team make the restaurant tick after
over 20 years. These recipes are ones you’ll want to eat through
the pages, and prepare with love for you and yours, much like Lula
Cafe does for the masses in Chicago.' – Jeremy Fox, Chef/Owner of
Rustic Canyon and Birdie G's
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