Celebrated French chef Pierre Gagnaire, described by Ruth Reichl in The New York Times as "The Wizard of Paris," offers 175 classic and yet innovative recipes for everyday and special occasions, from lazy brunches to midnight feasts. Pierre Gagnaire is one of France's most creative chefs, revered for pushing the boundaries of taste and texture. While he has published several books on food-related subjects, this is his first book of recipes written for the home chef. Organized into four chapters covering mealtimes and entertaining, Gagnaire transforms old favorites by adding a twist of originality via unique flavor combinations or the addition of an unexpected ingredient. Breakfast includes French Toast and Lemon-Rhubarb Marmalade and drinks such as Orange-Cardamom Coffee and Sparkling Melon-Strawberry juice. Lunch options include Shitaki-Gorgonzala Ciabatta or Zucchini Pesto, and dinner ranges from Lamb with Potatoes and Prunes or Grilled Line-Caught Bass. Desserts feature Chocolate Tart or Raspberries with Parmesan, and his cocktail party ideas include recipes for drinks and snacks, such as Bell Pepper Cocktail and Pear with Roquefort and Walnuts on Endive Leaves. The photographs bring into focus the fresh ingredients used in the recipes, with artistic close-up portraits. The creative recipes of this master chef will expand the repertoire of the home cook-novice or accomplished-and provide a fresh new home dining experience.