Appetizers & salads : Colin Cowie, a very big table -- Cocktails & beverages : Susan Spungen, a lady who lunches -- Soups & sandwiches : Marcus Samuelsson essay -- Meats : Michel Nischan essay -- Poultry : Art Smith, a heart as big as the whole outdoors -- Fish & Seafood : Govind Armstrong, making connections -- Vegetable side dishes : Nina Simonds, the story of a fast eater -- Potatoes, pasta & grains : Elizabeth Gilbert essay and sample menu -- Sauces, dressings, and dips : Rori Trovato, common sense tempered by enthusiasm -- Breads, muffins & biscuits : Maya Angelou essay -- Cakes, pies & tarts : Rozanne Gold, entertaining with grace -- Desserts : Gayle King essay.