Four cookbooks from Maine received accolades at the annual Readable Feast cookbook gala held in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 25, 2023. This event celebrates cookbooks and food literature focused on New England or authored by individuals from the region.
Catherine Walthers, a part-time Portland resident, triumphed with her book, “The Sea Table: Stories of Fisherman + Recipes from Martha’s Vineyard.” This publication garnered the prestigious titles of New England Book of the Year, as well as awards in the Seafood and Self-Published categories. Walthers’ work, created in collaboration with the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust, highlights the rich culinary traditions and stories from the region’s fishing community.
Another notable entry was “The Blue Food Cookbook: Delicious Seafood Recipes for a Sustainable Future,” co-authored by South Freeport’s Barton Seaver and celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern. This cookbook secured three honorable mentions in the categories of Seafood, Socially Conscious, and Single Subject, emphasizing its focus on sustainability in seafood consumption.
Portland’s Vanessa Seder also made a mark with her third cookbook, “Warm Your Bones: Cozy Recipes for Chilly Days and Winter Nights.” This publication received honorable mentions in both the Cookbook of the Year and Aesthetic Achievement categories, showcasing comforting recipes ideal for the colder months.
Additionally, “Sabor Judio: The Jewish Mexican Cookbook,” co-authored by Bowdoin professor Margaret E. Boyle and Ilan Stavans, earned an honorable mention in the Cultural Treasure category. This work reflects the fusion of Jewish and Mexican culinary traditions, offering readers a unique cultural perspective.
The Readable Feast gala considered over two dozen cookbooks, all published between October 1, 2024, and October 30, 2025. The event aims to honor and support New England’s diverse and talented culinary authors, editors, and chefs, while fostering connections with the reading public.
Food Editor Peggy Grodinsky, one of the eight judges for the awards, emphasized the importance of recognizing local talent and celebrating the vibrant food writing community in New England. The gala not only highlights individual achievements but also showcases the broader culinary landscape of the region.
As the culinary world continues to evolve, events like the Readable Feast play a crucial role in promoting the art of food writing, ensuring that both established and emerging voices are heard and celebrated.
