Appetizers & salads : Colin Cowie, a very big table
Cocktails & beverages : Susan Spungen, a lady who lunches
Soups & sandwiches : Marcus Samuelsson essay
Meats : Michel Nischan essay
Poultry : Art Smith, a heart as big as the whole outdoors
Fish & Seafood : Govind Armstrong, making connections
Vegetable side dishes : Nina Simonds, the story of a fast eater
Potatoes, pasta & grains : Elizabeth Gilbert essay and sample menu
Sauces, dressings, and dips : Rori Trovato, common sense tempered by enthusiasm
Breads, muffins & biscuits : Maya Angelou essay
Cakes, pies & tarts : Rozanne Gold, entertaining with grace
Desserts : Gayle King essay.