With a background in journalism and library studies, Becky Libourel Diamond has had a varied career combining writing and research. Ms. Diamond's second book, THE THOUSAND DOLLAR DINNER, tells the unique story of a 19th-century culinary challenge between Philadelphia restauranteur James Parkinson and the Delmonico family of NY. The result was a luxurious 17-course feast that helped launch fine restaurant dining in America as we know it today. Each chapter in the book covers the wide variety of interesting foods and wines that were served. She is also the author of MRS. GOODFELLOW: The Story of America's First Cooking School.

Books by Becky Libourel Diamond

The Thousand Dollar Dinner: America's First Great Cookery Challenge

by Becky Libourel Diamond - Cooking, History, Nonfiction

In 1851, 15 wealthy New Yorkers wanted to show a group of Philadelphia friends just how impressive a meal could be and took them to Delmonico's, New York's finest restaurant. They were treated to a magnificent banquet, enjoyed by all. However, not to be outdone, the Philadelphia men invited the New Yorkers to a meal prepared by James W. Parkinson in their city. In what became known as the "Thousand Dollar Dinner," Parkinson successfully rose to the challenge, creating a 17-course extravaganza. In THE THOUSAND DOLLAR DINNER, research historian Becky Libourel Diamond presents the entire 17-course meal, course by course, explaining each dish and its history.