Entertaining is an art form, blending creativity, hospitality, and culinary skill. For women who love to host guests in style, the right cookbook can be more than a guide—it’s a source of inspiration to craft memorable dining experiences. Whether you’re planning elegant soirées, intimate gatherings, or festive celebrations, an exceptional cookbook can offer ideas that elevate your hosting game. We’ve curated a list of 9 amazing cookbooks that celebrate diverse cuisines, showcase stunning dishes, and provide tips for stunning entertaining.

1. “Platters and Boards” by Shelly Westerhausen and Wyatt Worcel

Beautifully presented platters of food can make a bold statement at any gathering, and this cookbook is all about turning simple ingredients into visually stunning feasts.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • This book offers step-by-step instructions for creating show-stopping cheese boards, grazing platters, and themed snack displays.
  • Explore ideas for seasonal spreads and celebrations; from brunch boards to dessert platters, every occasion is covered.
  • Complemented by stunning photography that makes entertaining feel effortless yet chic.

Best For:

Casual gatherings like wine nights, brunch parties, or book clubs where presentation is key.

2. “Celebrate” by Pippa Middleton

For those who view hosting as more than just food, Pippa Middleton’s guide to entertaining delivers advice on creating the whole experience.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • The book balances seasonal recipes with creative ideas for decor and party planning.
  • From cozy Christmas dinners to summery garden parties, Pippa covers events with timeless sophistication.
  • Includes clear timelines and organizational tips to help ease the stress of hosting.

Best For:

Event planners at heart who want to organize seamless, Pinterest-worthy parties.

3. “The Art of Gathering” by Priya Parker

While not solely a cookbook, The Art of Gathering reimagines the philosophy behind entertaining, offering practical advice for creating meaningful connections.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • This book emphasizes thoughtful host-guest dynamics rather than just what’s on the table.
  • It’s filled with ideas to transform ordinary meetups into unforgettable shared experiences.
  • Perfect for those seeking depth and intention in how they bring people together.

Best For:

Hosts who want their gatherings to leave lasting impressions beyond the food.

4. “Cook Beautiful” by Athena Calderone

Athena Calderone, the creative force behind the lifestyle platform Eyeswoon, brings her aesthetic sensibility to this luxurious cookbook.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Focused on visually stunning recipes that balance simplicity with elegance.
  • The book is interwoven with practical styling tips so that your dishes look as amazing as they taste.
  • Seasonal menus make the book versatile, whether hosting a spring luncheon or cozy winter dinner party.

Best For:

Aesthetic-driven hosts who crave sophistication and Instagram-worthy spreads.

5. “Dinner in French” by Melissa Clark

Packed with the charm and secrets of French cooking, this book redefines classic French cuisine with a modern twist.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Recipes range from elegant, elaborate dishes like Duck à l'Orange to approachable everyday meals like French Lentil Salad.
  • Clark’s conversational tone makes replicating authentic French flavor feel incredibly accessible.
  • Perfectly balanced between indulgence and simplicity, this book highlights a timeless culinary style.

Best For:

Romantic dinners and classy soirées with a touch of French finesse.

6. “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” by Samin Nosrat

More than just a cookbook, this James Beard Award-winning guide is a masterclass in understanding the essentials of great cooking.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Learn how to balance flavors and apply these timeless techniques to craft your own signature dishes.
  • The accompanying illustrations convey complex ideas in a fun, digestible way.
  • It helps you host with confidence as you experiment and adapt to guests’ tastes.

Best For:

Engaged home cooks who want to infuse technical mastery into their casual or formal gatherings.

7. “The Kinfolk Table” by Nathan Williams

Known for celebrating slow living and intimate connections, The Kinfolk Table offers recipes and ideas wrapped in Scandinavian minimalism.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Combines thoughtful hosting tips with simple, rustic recipes that prioritize fresh, local ingredients.
  • The book’s emphasis on shared meals makes it approachable while still elegant.
  • Gorgeous lifestyle photography captures the essence of effortless entertaining.

Best For:

Fans of understated elegance who value meaningful, intimate gatherings.

8. “Ottolenghi SIMPLE” by Yotam Ottolenghi

For elevated hosting without the fuss, Ottolenghi SIMPLE delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors that don’t sacrifice complexity.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • The recipes are categorized by ease, and many require only a handful of ingredients, making them perfect for busy hosts.
  • Signature dishes like Roasted Eggplant with Harissa or Yogurt-Marinated Chicken are guaranteed to impress.
  • Ottolenghi’s vibrant use of spices lends every bite a sense of adventure.

Best For:

Hosts who want high-impact dishes that are fast to prepare for last-minute or spontaneous gatherings.

9. “What Can I Bring?” by Elizabeth Heiskell

Hosting isn’t always just about serving—it’s about contributing as a guest too. This cookbook transforms potluck contributions into decadent statements.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Features a variety of recipes for crowd-pleasing dishes, from appetizers to desserts.
  • Heiskell’s down-to-earth advice includes thoughtful ideas for transporting dishes so they look elegant upon arrival.
  • A trove of recipes that strike a balance between comforting and refined, ensuring everyone asks for seconds.

Best For:

Potluck parties and occasions where you want your dish to steal the show.