July 2002

Features

• Patriot Games

  In a country that pledges allegiance to California vintages, Long Island wines are fighting for recognition--and getting it. At a July 4th picnic, East End winemakers tout their region.

• Raise the Salad Bar

  Salads don't have to be skimpy, says a talented young chef who elevates them to main-course status using seafood, chicken, nuts, greens and herbs.

• Bread Winner

  Building an outstanding sandwich takes ingenuity and a firm set of rules, and this former deli wizard has both.

• Chop Talk

  The chophouse, a workingman's restaurant that dates back to the seventeenth century, is making a comeback. A writer talks beef, pork, lamb and veal.

• A Selective Guide to America's Super Chefs

  Besides talent, creativity and ambition, these stars share one more distinction: they're all former F&W best new chefs (and we spotted them way back when!). Here are their current home bases. Consider this the only restaurant guide you'll ever need.

• America's Best New Chefs 2002

  A young chef's job can be thankless. Besides coping with the usual challenges--long hours, cramped kitchens--ambitious newcomers have to captivate a jaded public. Every year, a few do so and earn our Best New Chef award. On this page, you'll meet this year's stars of the future. All have run a kitchen for less than five years, and in that short time, they've managed to seize our attention with their bold visions and dazzling food. Luckily, our job--indulging in their fabulous creations--is much easier than theirs.

• Best New Wine Lists | 2002

  After searching the country for cutting-edge new wine lists, we are proud to honor these 10, all from restaurants that have opened within the past year.

• Western Union

  Los Angeles chef Ben Ford brings together his two passions, organic food and nature, for a splendid lunch in a tepee at his friends' Jackson Hole ranch.

• Wine: Many Happy Returns

  Sending back a spoiled wine can be intimidating, but you can pull it off smoothly if you follow these guidelines.