Ad Hoc at Home

The cookbook is inspired by Thomas Keller's casual restaurant Ad Hoc, located in Yountville, California, which opened in 2006. Unlike Keller's renowned fine-dining establishments The French Laundry and Per Se, Ad Hoc serves a single family-style menu that changes daily.

The book focuses on approachable, home-cook-friendly recipes like fried chicken, beef stroganoff, and bread pudding, simplified from the restaurant's versions. Keller also includes extensive technique guidance on fundamentals such as brining, roasting, and dough preparation.

Thomas Keller is widely considered one of America's greatest chefs, best known for The French Laundry in Yountville, California, and Per Se in New York City, both of which have held three Michelin stars. He is the only American-born chef to have been awarded three Michelin stars simultaneously for two different restaurants.

While the recipes are more accessible than those in Keller's 'The French Laundry Cookbook,' many still require significant time, specialized equipment, or multiple steps. The book is best suited for enthusiastic home cooks who are willing to invest in quality ingredients and follow detailed technique instructions.