Review by Booklist Review
Rosenthal earned his accreditation as a foodie with his popular Netflix series, Somebody Feed Phil, in which he traveled from city to city to see the sights and especially to revel in each locale's indigenous foods. This book documents recipes for the feast of dishes he has consumed on camera. Because Rosenthal's travels have taken him all over the globe, these recipes arise from dozens of diverse culinary traditions. From Saigon comes banh mi, a seemingly simple sandwich that requires making creamy chicken liver mousse for full effect. A trip to New Orleans yields a simple six-ingredient coleslaw. For more complexity, there's "Five Ages of Parmigiano Reggiano" from the hand of superchef Massimo Bottura, who conjures up an ultra-modern Parmigiano foam and a Parmigiano wafer. Contrast that with the more prosaic but tasty Chicago hot dog, which sends the author into rhapsody. Rosenthal's giddy enthusiasm emerges almost as vividly in print as on his television episodes. Photos from the show give a hint of the visual dimension of Phil's quest for deliciousness.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
A hungry host provides plenty to chew on in this entertaining guide. Taking fans on an all-consuming tour through the first four seasons of his Netflix show, Somebody Feed Phil (think "exactly like Anthony Bourdain, if he was afraid of everything"), Rosenthal serves up a combination companion volume, cookbook, and travelogue. In excursions both international and domestic, the goofy and galloping gourmand highlights tourist destinations from Chiang Mai, Thailand, to Honolulu; reminisces over meals and trips shared with friends; reveals some tasty behind-the-scenes tidbits; and offers up recipes from near and far. From Mexico City comes a recipe for pink mole--a dessert made with hibiscus flowers and various berries--while a trip to Seoul inspires a recipe for the popular summer dish samgyetang, a piping hot ginseng chicken soup. Closer to home, Rosenthal recounts his New York City adventures, including a trek to Peter Luger, before offering up a classic sausage, egg, and cheese inspired by the city's ubiquitous bodegas. And in New Orleans, "the best vegetarian sandwich I've ever had" is a collard green melt from the renowned eatery Turkey and the Wolf. As a bonus, many of the chapters end with a joke from Rosenthal's late father Max, providing a delightful serving of corn. Fans will eat up every bit. (Oct.)
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Review by Library Journal Review
Rosenthal's (You're Lucky You're Funny) tasty companion book to his Netflix travel series Somebody Feed Phil exudes the same charm, wit, and sweet-and-savory goodness that makes the show must-see comfort food viewing. Each of the TV episodes focuses on the cuisine of one international or U.S. location, including Bangkok, Venice, Lisbon, Hawai'i, Marrakesh, Mexico City, New York City, New Orleans, San Francisco, and more. Each of the 22 chapters covers one location/episode. Rosenthal readily admits he's not a cook, so the tempting recipes in this book come directly from the chefs and restaurants he visited. This beautifully designed book is filled with color photographs of delicious meals and alluring locations. Recipes range from meat and fish dishes to vegetarian and vegan treats and include mouthwatering desserts, appetizers, and drinks. Few cooks will be able to resist the collard-green melt or pastrami ribs. VERDICT An irresistible hybrid cookbook/travel book, ideal for readers planning a trip or a meal.--Kevin Howell
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