Letter from the Editors
Kate Nelson: Food is a rare universal human experience. Sure, there’s a difference between Sichuan spicy and Minnesota spicy, but in these highly divisive times, it’s important to remember what unites us. Our feature subject, Brett Anderson, has been telling important food stories for more than two decades (page 118). I had the pleasure of getting to know this Minnesota native who’s risen to become one of America’s preeminent food writers. From the get-go, he wasn’t sure that his story is one worth telling — but trust me, it is. We also had the pleasure of working with an incredible team in New Orleans (Anderson’s adopted hometown) for our photo shoot at acclaimed eatery Coquette, including photographer Denny Culbert and food stylist Andi Daniel.
Hayley Saunders: In fact, NOLA is well-represented in our annual food + wine issue, which includes a cheeky yet candid essay from chef Mason Hereford about his love for mayo (page 46). There’s really no shortage of compelling culinary content in our pages. Cookbook author Melissa Clark — you may know her from her popular New York Times columns — reveals her 10 cooking commandments, and they’re surprisingly simple (page 216).
KN: The phenomenon of the Wisconsin supper club is sweeping the nation — but why? Writer Brittany Chaffee has the answer (page 50). Another fascinating development? The fast-growing high-tech world of art forgery detection. We got the inside scoop from both sides of this epic cat-and-mouse game (page 209).
HS: Whether Mother Nature wants to admit it, spring is officially here. And there’s no surer sign of the warm seasons ahead than green grass popping up and blossoms bursting with color. Chris Plantan gave us a peek inside her dreamy potting shed, which is beautiful enough to inspire even greenhorn gardeners to find their green thumb (page 172). Another way to celebrate the season? Bringing the great outdoors in. Resident outdoorswoman Laura Schara has tips for giving your next dinner party a touch of natural glam (page 188). She has created a stunning tablescape that’s sure to motivate you to gather your loved ones to break bread.
Happy reading,
Kate Nelson, Editor-in-Chief, and Hayley Saunders, Managing Editor + Associate Publisher
