Open Wide: A Cookbook for Friends

“If the lighting is bad, the food doesn't matter.”

The secret to a great night is mostly just the music and lighting. Benny shows that fancy food matters way less than the vibe of the room.

“Silverware just gets in the way of a good time.”

Using your hands to eat shouldn't feel messy or wrong. It actually makes the whole meal feel more like a real human connection.

A massive bowl of pasta can solve almost any social anxiety. Serving things family style forces everyone to interact and share.

“High-low is the only way to live.”

Lobster rolls and caviar don't have to be stiff or formal. You can serve high end ingredients on a paper plate and it feels even better.