The Il Fornaio Baking Book

Book excerpt: Now available in paperback, the acclaimed Il Fornaio Baking Book celebrates the Italian culinary legacy of both staunch traditionalism and irrepressible innovation. Over 70 classic and inventive recipes from the kitchens of Il Fornaio's renowned bakeries, restaurants, and cafes are interwoven with author Franco Galli's heart-warming family memories and fascinating pieces of lore. Find traditional and specialty breads, pizza, focaccia, and other savory dishes as well as a temptingly sweet selection of biscotti, cakes, and tarts--all with easy-to-follow recipes. Generously illustrated with hand-toned photographs, this great book--at a great new value--is perfect for anyone with a passion for baking.Franco Galli started his career as a baker's apprentice in northern Italy at the age of ten. He came to the United States in 1979, where he developed menus for several well-known California restaurants before joining San Francisco-based Il Fornaio America in 1987.