FANTASTIC FOOD FINDS IN 'ICONIC EATS OF WICHITA'

Combining a love for food and cooking with a lifetime of writing experience ... magic. The author of “Wicked Wichita” and long-time writer, cook and food enthusiast Joe Stumpe has done it again, writing a brilliant book ruminating on the rich history of our beloved city with interesting anecdotes and personal accounts in addition to sharing outstanding recipes.

Stumpe’s new book, “Iconic Eats of Wichita,’’ focuses on something that sustains life, brings people together, is part of celebrations and parties, and can speak volumes about someone’s upbringing, culture or preferences. Cooking and the city coalesce in this unique cookbook where the author, a discerning food critic, looks at local dishes prepared with expertise and dedication.

“I hope the book turns people on to some food, recipes and restaurants they've never tried before." — Author Joe Stumpe

“Iconic Eats of Wichita” has the feel of a cooking journal, yet tells stories, shares cultures, and highlights beautiful aspects unique to the city of Wichita. A few recipes are well known to locals, but many lie in wait, like hidden treasures, longed for by some and now waiting to be discovered within the pages of this book.

It is available in local bookstores and an autographed copy can be ordered directly by emailing Stumpe at jstumpe@cox.net.

This collection of stories, histories and recipes includes a variety of cooking styles and cultural influences,and boasts chapters dedicated to three specific cuisines that ha ve shaped the city’s restaurant landscape: Hispanic (El Pueblo, Mi Pueblo), Mediterranean (Middle East Meets Middle West) and Asian (Friend of Pho). Other sources that inspire the city’s restaurants and dishes include French, Italian, Greek and German food traditions.

Initial sections of the book speak about early cooks in the area and how they prepared hearty, delicious foods for family members. It tells tales of days gone by and some of the origins of the dishes Wichitans have loved and grown up with. Other highlights such as Restaurant Reveals feature many local dining

establishments that prepare delectable dishes. For cocktail enthusiasts, the book’s chapter To Your Health, offers crafted cocktail options to enjoy in the new year.

In addition to his two books, Stumpe has written about food, chefs and cooks as well as restaurants in “The Wichita Eagle” and “SPLURGE!” for a number of years. He serves as the editor of “The Active Age,” a local publication distributed throughout parts of Kansas. He and his wife, Carrie Rengers, love cooking

together and dining all over the city. He also enjoys teaching culinary classes at Mark Arts. Enjoy these two featured recipes, just a small taste of “Iconic Eats of Wichita.”