Literary Lunch-the best of both worlds! March 2, 2012

Each year, M on the Bund, an incredible restaurant on, you guessed it, the Bund, hosts the Shanghai International Literary Festival. Guests get to hear amazing authors and chow down on some of the best cuisine in Shanghai. What more could you want?

This year's featured authors were Amy Tan, Edward P. Jones, Matt Groening (yes, of "The Simpson's" fame) and this fellow, Harold McGee.

Literary Lunch with Harold McGee: Curious Cook

12 pm LITERARY LUNCH Harold McGee: Curious Cook Why does popcorn pop? How do custards thicken? Why is it some people can't stand cheese? Cooking and science with the renowned author of On Food & Cooking. Moderated by Hamish Pollitt.

Yes, I thought of you two once again, W and S!

The stage was set.

The place was set.

The soft boiled happy (I'm not making this up) egg
Happy and delicious!

Topped with capers, celery salt and paprika

A Middle Eastern plate

Hummus, smoked tomato, tabboulleh salad, olives and home made flat bread
I love a good snack plate!

Stewed fruit with zabaglione

After we had scarfed down daintily enjoyed our meal, which
truly wasn't excessive, Harold McGee spoke.

It was more of a question and answer session. He was a fascinating speaker who went on at length about many interesting topics in the worlds of food chemistry, physics and safety. I could have listened to him all day, but, alas, he wasn't prepared to talk all day and who could've blamed him! 

Thank you, Esther, my partner in stretchy pants, for inviting me to this absorbing and delectable event!