A Flavorful Tribute to San Diego: Inside Ligaya Malones' Vibrant New Cookbook
In the colorful, breezy pages of "San Diego Cooks: Recipes from the Region’s Favorite Eateries, Bakeries, and Bars," author Ligaya Malones invites home cooks to journey through the diverse culinary landscape of San Diego. More than just a collection of recipes, this latest addition to Figure 1 Publishing’s acclaimed City Cooks series is a heartfelt homage to the chefs, eateries, and unique cross-cultural flavors that define the region.
Ligaya Malones, a seasoned food and travel writer whose work has graced publications such as Bon Appétit, Condé Nast Traveler, and San Diego Magazine, has spent years immersed in culinary storytelling. When approached by Figure 1 Publishing to craft the 20th book in their celebrated City Cooks series, Malones saw a unique opportunity: "San Diego Cooks is a special opportunity to shine a very bright light on the people who work hard to keep us nourished and to encourage home cooks to try something new," she shares exclusively with VERVE.
Ligaya Malones (left); Deanna Sandoval (right)
Partnering with North County-based photographer Deanna Sandoval, Malones curated 70 distinct recipes from a dynamic range of local establishments, from cozy cafés to upscale eateries. The recipes are thoughtfully organized both by restaurant name and dish type, ensuring the book is accessible whether you're planning your weekend brunch or an intimate dinner party.
"We wanted to feature restaurants from a wide spectrum of dining styles, so the recipes naturally offer a variety of complexity," Malones explains. Her personal favorites include Mystic Mocha’s beloved chilaquiles and the transformative brussels sprouts with honey-chili glaze from Chef Moira Hill. For a culinary adventure, she's looking forward to attempting the Grilled Steak with Mole Demi and Guajillo Marmalade by Chef Sergio Jimenez of AVANT in Rancho Bernardo.
Malones, who grew up in Kaua’i and now resides in North County, San Diego, credits her island upbringing for shaping her appreciation of multicultural cuisine. "Growing up in Kaua’i exposed me to a multicultural food scene early on," she reflects. "San Diego’s food culture similarly benefits from its geographic position, our enviably long growing season, proximity to the ocean, and cultural exchanges with our neighbors in Mexico."
The cookbook’s vibrant photography by Sandoval plays a pivotal role, illuminating the intricate details and textures of each dish and encapsulating the spirit of San Diego’s food scene. Malones describes the visuals as capturing the chefs’ playful yet earnest personalities: "The chef portraits seem to say, 'We take our food seriously, ourselves less so.'"
Highlighting North County eateries specifically, the cookbook includes cherished spots like AVANT in Rancho Bernardo, renowned for sophisticated dishes rooted in local produce. Malones also celebrates innovative restaurants like Smokin’ J’s BBQ in Poway, famous for stuffing its brisket into a California Burrito – a delicious nod to local tastes.
"San Diego Cooks" is more than a cookbook – it’s a snapshot of the region’s culinary zeitgeist. As North County's food scene continues evolving, Malones sees it growing even more diverse and locally-focused. "We have more options than ever across the county to find great food," she emphasizes. Her book encapsulates that excitement, making it a must-have for anyone eager to explore San Diego’s culinary richness from their own kitchen.
"San Diego Cooks: Recipes from the Region’s Favorite Eateries, Bakeries, and Bars" by Ligaya Malones, featuring photography by Deanna Sandoval, is available now in local bookstores including Warwick’s in La Jolla, The Book Catapult in South Park, and Hudson News at the airport, as well as online. Whether you’re a novice cook or seasoned culinary enthusiast, this collection promises to nourish your curiosity and your palate.