The End of an Era

The October issue of Gourmet had an somewhat over the top article about the restaurant meals you could enjoy with $1000. I enjoyed the read but planned a rather sarcastic commentary. Though the truth is I'd love to "take the $1000 challenge" in Seattle.

This week it was announced that Gourmet would be shut down after the November issue. I find this very sad and think the cooking world is going to be missing an important voice. Gourmet might not be the everyday cook's guide book, but the stories about food and people are wonderful.

Some may find issue with comparing it to the loss of our local newspapers, but it really is the same thing. Investigative journalism and in depth reporting are going the way of snippets and sound bytes (god I sound old). Here I am on a blog, I would say I'm part of the problem but I think I reach maybe 20 people.

Ruth Reichl the editor of Gourmet, is amazing. I know she will have lots of opportunities but I will miss the regular delivery of her voice. I was lucky enough to hear her speak this year and she was as funny, unassuming and as "real life" as you would hope. She is not a food snob, she is a food lover. While I may never understand or and have the opportunity of appreciate the food world in the same way, I enjoy having a small glimpse into that world. I don't think I'm going to get that from the food network.

I may either have to cook all the recipes of the last issue or try that $1000 eating frenzy as a way to say good-bye. I will miss Gourmet.

Does this make the 100's of old magazines in my basement instant collectors items?