Vikram Vij’s latest cookbook, “My New Indian Kitchen”, has been celebrated at book launches across Canada in the fall of 2025. (Photo courtesy of Vikram Vij)
This year’s collection of travel-inspired cookbooks will take you or your favourite wanderer on a delicious culinary journey to faraway places. They also become a travel guide of sorts, with a glimpse into the history, the culture, and the people of the destination. You or the foodie on your list can explore world flavours, no plane ticket needed. Here are some of 2025’s best.
“My New Indian Kitchen” by Vikram Vij (with Jennifer Muttoo)
One of Canada’s most celebrated chefs has done it again. This time with a mouth-watering book that takes home cooks on a culinary adventure to his homeland. Think sophisticated, flavourful dishes, approachable recipes and a modern take on Indian food. All garnished with engaging tales and traditions of Indian cuisine. (Raincoast, $40)
“The Complete Illustrated Guide to Chinese Cooking” by Orathay Souksisavanh
The big comprehensive guide for anyone eager to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most beloved cuisines and who may find creating it daunting. The book contains 100 classic recopies that will take you to the heart of the Chinese food world. Everything from how to cook a perfect pot of rice to Mapo Tofu to Hot, Popcorn Chicken and Sticky Rice. (Raincoast, $61.89)
“Pizza Napoli” by James and Thom Elliot (with Dave Brown)
The next best thing to an in-person tour of Napoli’s food scene is the joy ride that the Pizza Pilgrims take you through the city streets. They guide you into hidden gems and get you up close and personal with the city’s best pizza makers. A witty mix of glorious photography, lively storytelling and heartfelt tips for making pizza at home. (Chronicle, $53)
“Winter in the Highlands” by Flora Shedden
Acclaimed bakery owner and Bake Off semifinalist takes readers on an eating, drinking journey to celebrate the stark beauty and winter charm of Scotland. She shares the cherished festive traditions of Christmas, Hogmanay and Burns Night with delicious savoury and sweet recipes for all three. (Chronicle, $60)
“Tahini Baby” by Eden Grinshpan
A vibrant cookbook that says “yes” to the big, bold flavours of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, “yes” to simple recipes that put veggies front and centre and “yes” to the author’s love of tahini. A celebration of food, family and cultural background of her Toronto home and summers spent in Israel. (Penguin, $45)
“Chesnok” by Polina Chesnakova
A heartfelt collection of more than 100 recipes and stories that captures the flavours and traditions of Chesnakova’s Russian heritage. She features classic dishes, approachable meals and inventive pairings from Eastern Europe. The book contains recollections of her family, traditions and a portrait of the Soviet diaspora. (Hardie Grant, $53)
“Vietnam The Cookbook” by Anaïs Ca Dao Van Manen
This big, delicious deep dive into the vibrant cuisine that defines Vietnam is a classic. From beloved street food to comforting family dishes, the chef/author blends tradition with a fresh perspective in a book that features more than 400 authentic, approachable recipes. Rich storytelling, cultural context and stunning photography make it more than a recipe collection. (Phaidon, $84.95)
“Around the World in 80 Meatballs” by Bunny Banyai
What’s not to love about the humble meatball? How about 80 of them? Did you know every corner of the planet has its own version? Turkey even claims to have more than 200 regional variations. Universally loved, the meatball is celebrated in this edition that includes delightful globe-trotting stories, reflecting the rich traditions and culinary practices of each region. (Chronicle, $34.99)
“The White Lotus Official Cookbook” by Jarrett Melendez
Fans of the hit HBO series can recreate fabulous, resort-style decadence in their own home. Each of the show’s first three destinations — Hawaii, Sicily and Thailand — are featured, showcasing a range of recipes to start and end the day. Think luxurious ingredients, five-star dishes, lush settings and practical instructions for hosting your own “White Lotus”-style party. (Insight Editions, $36.99)
“Instant Ramen Kitchen” by Peter J. Kim
A life-long obsession with ramen cookery led the author to write this book of 40 inventive recipes created around one of the world’s most popular convenience foods, which is also a culinary touchstone for many cultures. The approachable, imaginative recipes will inspire you to take the humble little packet to something new and delicious. (Chronicle, $41.95)
