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A Chef's Library with a Purpose

In partnership with Citymeals on Wheels, acclaimed chef Marc Forgione (chef-owner of Restaurant Marc Forgione, Peasant, and others, and a Food Network Iron Chef) has selected a set of chef- and restaurant-focused books and cookbooks integral to his perspective as a chef, storyteller, and food lover.

For a limited time, these books are available in exclusive sets—offered with special keepsakes and a portion of proceeds supporting Citymeals’ mission to nourish homebound elderly New Yorkers with meal deliveries and companionship.

Whether you’re adding to your own cookbook library or looking for a meaningful gift, this is a unique opportunity to own books personally selected by one of New York’s most respected chefs—while making a real difference in the lives of others.

Marc’s "Culinary Storytelling" Collection

“I love hearing about people’s journeys through food,” says Marc Forgione.

That sentiment flows through his book selection. From Peter Hoffman’s ingredient-inspired reminiscences to Paul Bertolli’s culinary evolution to the daughter-father dynamic shared by Verveine Origner and Ken Oringer to the “idea essays” of Christian Puglisi to Matthew Weingarten and Raquel Pelzel’s paean to foraging and the ancient craft of preserving … all of Forgione’s selections will be as at home in an armchair as they are in the kitchen.

“These aren’t just cookbooks,” says Marc. “They’re storybooks as well.”

Choose Your Set

Signed letter from Marc Forgione, sharing why he chose these titles
Access to an exclusive online book discussion, moderated by Andrew Friedman, author, host/producer of the Andrew Talks to Chefs podcast, veteran cookbook collaborator, and Citymeals board member
Ships in standard packaging
$25 from your purchase supports Citymeals

Ideal for cookbook lovers, passionate home cooks, and anyone who believes in the power of good food to connect and nourish.

What's Good?

by Peter Hoffman

Cooking with My Dad, the Chef

by Verveine Oringer & Ken Oringer

Preserving Wild Foods

by Matthew Weingarten & Raquel Pelzel

Relae: A Book of Ideas

by Christian F. Puglisi

Cooking by Hand

by Paul Bertolli

5 chef-selected books: the three books included in the Petite Tasting set as well as:
- Relae: A Book of Ideas by Christian Puglisi
- Cooking by Hand by Paul Bertolli
Signed letter from Marc Forgione
Access to the online book discussion
Citymeals-branded tote bag
Gift-quality packaging
$50 from your purchase supports Citymeals

An exceptional gift—generous in its contents, presentation, and impact.

About Citymeals

Citymeals provides nourishing meals and vital companionship to older New Yorkers in need. Each year, they deliver more than two million meals to the city’s most vulnerable residents—right to their doors. Your purchase directly supports this work.

Learn more →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which books are included?

No—these titles are personally selected by Chef Marc Forgione. The curation is part of the experience.

Is the donation portion tax-deductible?

Unfortunately, tax law does not allow this. If you would like to support Citymeals’ work directly, you can make a donation using the link on this page.

When will I receive my order?

Orders will ship in early November. You’ll receive an invitation to the online discussion at that time.

Final Note

This is more than a collection of cookbooks.
It’s a personal glimpse into the culinary inspirations of a celebrated chef—
and an opportunity to support an organization doing vital work in New York City.

Quantities are limited.
Reserve your set while they’re available.

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Gift Cards

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Gift Cards

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A Chef's Library with a Purpose

Marc’s "Culinary Storytelling" Collection

Choose Your Set

Petite Tasting Set

$94.95