Learn about food writing over wine and dinner

Food is a universal subject – everybody eats! But how do you write about food? Where do you start? What goes into creating a new recipe? Who can offer advice? Is there a future in food writing? (And what about writing on edible gardens?)

Find out during a special evening with three accomplished food writers and editors as Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Sacramento presents “Wine & Dine with Les Dames Sacramento” Speakers Series – Women in Journalism.

Set for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, this fundraising evening combines food for thought with actual food and wine (or other beverages) for a good cause – Les Dames Sacramento’s scholarship and grant program. Tickets ($50 plus fees in advance via EventBrite; $65 at the door) include one drink ticket plus dinner at Milagro Centre by Bella Bru, 6241 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael.

Featured panelists will be: longtime culinary journalist and cookbook author Elaine Corn, a former food editor for The Sacramento Bee; Sacramento Digs Gardening co-creator Debbie Arrington, another alumnus of The Sacramento Bee; and Anastasia Murphy, editor and publisher of “edible Sacramento” magazine. Between them, these three have nearly a century of food writing and editing experience.

Bobbin Mulvaney, co-owner of Mulvaney’s B&L and a celebrated Sacramento restaurateur, will serve as moderator for a Q&A including questions from the audience.

“We’re excited to kick off our 2025 LDEI Sacramento Wine & Dine Speakers Series with an inspiring conversation featuring three trailblazing women in journalism,” say the organizers. “From editorial leadership at major newspapers to cookbook writing, digital publishing, and championing local food systems, these accomplished women will share their journeys, insights, and perspectives on the evolving landscape of food journalism.”

Food remains one of the most popular subjects for books, magazines and blogs. More than 20 million cookbooks were sold in the United States in 2024.

A surge of interest in cooking that started during the pandemic has continued, but the kinds of food-related books that people are buying is changing, according to publishers. Readers (and buyers) seek more inspiration – and beautiful photos – than straight-up how-to guides.

Readers also appreciate the link between gardening and cooking – as the maxim goes, “you grew it, now eat it.” Avid gardeners are often serious cooks, and vice versa. That’s illustrated weekly by Sacramento Digs Gardening’s Sunday recipes as well as SDG’s four e-cookbooks.

Besides insights into food journalism, this event also provides a networking opportunity for anyone interested in food, beverage and hospitality in the greater Sacramento area while supporting Les Dames’ efforts to help women pursue their own culinary and hospitality dreams.