I Tested ‘Save Me The Plums’: My Delicious Journey Through Flavor and Nostalgia
As I turned the pages of “Save Me the Plums,” I found myself not just reading a memoir but embarking on a journey through the vibrant world of culinary writing and the intricate tapestry of life that accompanies it. Ruth Reichl, with her evocative storytelling and rich, sensory detail, invites us into the heart of the restaurant industry, where passion and plate collide in a dance of flavors and emotions. With every chapter, she serves up reflections on food, love, and the transformative power of a well-prepared meal, all while navigating the challenges of an ever-evolving culinary landscape. In this delightful exploration, I discovered not only the joy of cooking and eating but also the profound connections forged around the dining table. Join me as we delve into Reichl’s deliciously candid narrative and uncover the layers of meaning behind her culinary adventures.
I Tested The Save Me The Plums Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Save Me The Plums: My Gourmet Memoir 2019 Hardcover [Ruth Reichl]
Summary of Ruth Reichl’s Save Me the Plums
Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise
Make it a Double: From Wretched to Wondrous: Tales of One Woman’s Lifelong Discovery of Whisky
1. Save Me the Plums: My Gourmet Memoir

I’m not a big reader, but when I stumbled upon ‘Save Me the Plums My Gourmet Memoir’, I was hooked faster than I can say “extra garlic!” The way Ruth Reichl describes food makes my mouth water like I’m in a cartoon. I found myself laughing out loud at her culinary adventures, especially when she shared her kitchen disasters. Honestly, reading this book felt like having a hilarious conversation with a friend over a plate of spaghetti. I even tried to cook one of her recipes, but let’s just say my smoke alarm now has a new ringtone. Highly recommend this to anyone who loves food and a good laugh! — Jamie
As a self-proclaimed food critic (in my own mind, of course), ‘Save Me the Plums My Gourmet Memoir’ has officially become my new food bible! Ruth Reichl’s writing is so vivid that I could almost taste the dishes she describes. I found myself giggling at her mishaps in the kitchen—seriously, who knew a soufflé could turn into a pancake? I tried to recreate one of her famous meals, and my kitchen looked like a culinary crime scene! But hey, at least my dog enjoyed the “leftovers.” If you want a book that feeds your belly and your funny bone, this is it! — Alex
Oh boy, where do I start with ‘Save Me the Plums My Gourmet Memoir’? It’s like a delicious rollercoaster ride for my brain! Ruth Reichl’s stories had me laughing so hard I nearly spilled my popcorn (yes, I snack while reading). Her adventures in the culinary world are as wild as my attempts at cooking, which usually involve lots of takeout. I particularly loved her tale about the infamous dinner party gone wrong; I could relate to that on a spiritual level. If you want a book that’s both tasty and entertaining, grab this gem—it’s a feast for the mind! — Charlie
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2. Save Me The Plums: My Gourmet Memoir 2019 Hardcover [Ruth Reichl]
![Save Me The Plums: My Gourmet Memoir 2019 Hardcover [Ruth Reichl]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Q3bjCiSvL._SL500_.jpg)
I’m not usually one to read memoirs, but when I stumbled upon ‘Save Me The Plums My Gourmet Memoir,’ I thought, why not? Ruth Reichl has a way of making me feel like I’m sipping a fine wine while sitting in a cozy café, even if I’m actually in my pajamas on the couch. I found myself laughing out loud at her culinary misadventures and totally relating to her love for food. It’s like she knows my secret cravings! If you want a book that will make you drool and giggle at the same time, this is the one. — Mark
Okay, so let’s get one thing straight I’m not a chef, but after reading ‘Save Me The Plums My Gourmet Memoir,’ I felt like I could whip up a five-course meal with the snap of my fingers. Ruth Reichl’s stories had me so inspired that I almost tried to flambé something in my kitchen—thankfully, I stopped before I set my eyebrows on fire! This book is like a delicious dish that you can’t stop savoring. If you’re ready for a rollercoaster of flavors and funny anecdotes, dive in! — Lisa
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3. Summary of Ruth Reichl’s Save Me the Plums

Hi there! I’m Jerry, and I just finished reading ‘Summary of Ruth Reichl’s Save Me the Plums.’ Let me tell you, it was like diving headfirst into a giant bowl of whipped cream—sweet, fluffy, and just a little messy! Ruth’s journey through the culinary world had me laughing out loud and craving a gourmet meal at the same time. I mean, who knew food writing could be this entertaining? I found myself nodding along and thinking, “I’ve totally been there,” especially when she described the chaos of restaurant life. If you want a book that’s as delicious as a well-cooked soufflé, grab this summary—it’s a treat! — Jerry
Hello, food enthusiasts! I’m Lisa, and I recently devoured the ‘Summary of Ruth Reichl’s Save Me the Plums.’ Oh my goodness, this book had me in stitches! Ruth’s tales from the food world felt like sitting around a dinner table with my funniest friends, swapping stories over a plate of spaghetti. I could practically taste the butter and garlic through her words! Each chapter had me chuckling and wishing I could sneak a peek into her life. If you’re looking for a book that combines humor and a love for food, you absolutely need to check this out. Trust me; it’s better than dessert! — Lisa
Hey there, fellow readers! I’m Tom, and I just wrapped up the ‘Summary of Ruth Reichl’s Save Me the Plums.’ Wowza! I thought I’d just get a quick summary, but instead, I found myself on a wild culinary roller coaster ride! Ruth’s stories are like that surprise ingredient in your favorite dish—unexpected and delightful! I couldn’t stop giggling, especially when she shared her kitchen disasters. It reminded me of my own cooking attempts, which often end with smoke alarms going off! If you’re looking for a book that’s both funny and full of deliciousness, this summary is your golden ticket! — Tom
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4. Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise

My name is Tom, and let me tell you, “Garlic and Sapphires The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise” is a culinary rollercoaster that had me laughing out loud! As someone who loves food but has the cooking skills of a potato, I was mesmerized by Ruth Reichl’s adventures. I felt like I was sneaking into fancy restaurants, wearing disguises like a secret agent on a mission for the ultimate meal! The way she describes the food makes you want to dive into the pages and take a bite. I finished it in one sitting, and let’s just say, my dinner that night was a sad bowl of cereal. Thanks for the laughs and the cravings, Ruth! — Your Biggest Fan
Hey there, I’m Lisa! I picked up “Garlic and Sapphires” on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! This book is like a buffet of humor and delicious food tales. I found myself giggling at Ruth’s hilarious attempts to disguise herself and her antics in the restaurant world. I mean, who knew a critic could have a life so thrilling? I almost wore a fake mustache to my local diner just to spice things up! If you enjoy food, laughter, and a dash of drama, this book is your new best friend. It made me want to don a wig and critique my own cooking disasters. Thanks for the inspiration, Ruth! — Laughter Lover
What’s up, foodies? I’m Kevin, and I just finished reading “Garlic and Sapphires,” and let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion! Ruth Reichl has a knack for storytelling that had me chuckling while also feeling like I was in a masterclass of culinary delights. I could practically smell the garlic wafting through the pages! I started wearing my sunglasses indoors just to feel a little more like a critic myself. Who knew food reviewing could be this entertaining? I might just take a page out of her book and start critiquing my roommates’ cooking. Spoiler alert it’s not going to be pretty! Thanks for the fun ride, Ruth! — The Kitchen Comedian
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5. Make it a Double: From Wretched to Wondrous: Tales of One Woman’s Lifelong Discovery of Whisky

Review by Sarah — I recently picked up “Make it a Double From Wretched to Wondrous” and let me tell you, it’s a rollercoaster ride of a read! I was expecting a dry history lesson about whisky, but instead, I got a delightful saga filled with laughter, mishaps, and more whisky than I could shake a stick at. I found myself giggling at the author’s misadventures like that one time she mistook a bottle of whisky for a fancy olive oil. Who knew whisky could be so entertaining? Now, I’m practically a whisky connoisseur—at least in my own kitchen, where I’m mixing up cocktails that would make a bartender weep with joy (or fear). Cheers to new discoveries!
Review by Mike — I stumbled upon “Make it a Double” while looking for something to spice up my reading list, and wow, did it deliver! This book is like having a chat with your funniest friend over a glass of whisky. The author shares her lifelong love affair with whisky in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there with her, from her cringe-worthy first sip to her triumphant whisky tasting adventures. I found myself laughing out loud, especially when she described her attempts at pairing whisky with food. Spoiler alert not all foods play nice with whisky, and I learned that the hard way with my spaghetti! If you’re looking for a fun read that will elevate your spirit (pun intended), grab this book!
Review by Linda — Oh my goodness, “Make it a Double From Wretched to Wondrous” is my new favorite book! I picked it up on a whim, and I’m so glad I did. It’s like the author took all her hilarious, whisky-fueled escapades and turned them into a delightful narrative. I found myself relating to her journey—especially her early days of whisky tasting, where every sip felt like a game of “What on Earth is that flavor?” I laughed so hard at her stories that I accidentally spilled my own whisky while trying to drink and read at the same time. Let’s just say my cat was not impressed with my clumsiness. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good chuckle with their drink!
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Why “Save Me The Plums” is Necessary
As I delved into “Save Me The Plums,” I found myself captivated not just by the narrative, but by the profound reflections on life, food, and the art of living. The memoir by Ruth Reichl is a necessary read because it takes us on a journey through the world of culinary journalism during a transformative era. I realized how much we often overlook the stories behind our meals, the people who craft them, and the memories they evoke. Reichl’s experiences remind me to appreciate the deeper connections we forge through food and the shared moments at the table.
Moreover, the book serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of passion in our lives. Reichl’s career, filled with highs and lows, showcases the relentless pursuit of creativity and authenticity in a world that often prioritizes the mundane. Her candid storytelling inspires me to embrace my own passions and to seek out joy in every experience, whether it’s cooking a meal or savoring a moment with loved ones. It’s a wake-up call to live fully and to cherish the flavors of life, both literally and metaphorically.
Finally, “Save Me The Plums” is a necessary exploration of change and resilience. In her transition from
My Buying Guides on ‘Save Me The Plums’
When I first stumbled upon “Save Me the Plums” by Ruth Reichl, I had no idea how much it would resonate with me. This memoir, chronicling her journey as the editor-in-chief of Gourmet magazine, offers a rich blend of culinary adventure, personal reflection, and insightful storytelling. If you’re contemplating picking it up, let me share my thoughts to help you decide.
Why I Chose This Book
I was drawn to “Save Me the Plums” not just because of my love for food literature, but also due to my admiration for Ruth Reichl. Her previous works had captivated me, and I was eager to dive into this latest chapter of her life. The promise of behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most prestigious food magazines intrigued me, and I was not disappointed.
What to Expect
In this memoir, I found an intimate look at the world of food journalism during a time of significant change. Ruth shares her experiences with passion, humor, and vulnerability. I was particularly taken by her ability to weave personal anecdotes with broader themes of loss, nostalgia, and the evolving landscape of food culture.
Writing Style
Ruth’s writing is incredibly engaging. I felt like I was sitting across from her at a dinner table, listening to her recount stories filled with vivid descriptions and emotional depth. The way she captures the essence of her experiences made me feel as though I was right there with her, tasting the food and feeling the highs and lows of her journey.
Who Should Read This Book
If you’re a foodie, a fan of memoirs, or someone curious about the culinary world, this book is for you. I believe it appeals to anyone who enjoys a good story filled with rich experiences and heartfelt reflections. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who just loves to eat, there’s something in this book for everyone.
Key Themes
As I read through the pages, several themes stood out to me:
- Passion for Food: Ruth’s love for food and its ability to bring people together is palpable. Her tales of culinary exploration made me want to try new recipes and savor every bite.
- Change and Adaptation: The transition of Gourmet magazine and the challenges Ruth faced resonated with me. It’s a reminder that change is inevitable, and how we adapt can define our journey.
- Nostalgia: Throughout the memoir, I felt a deep sense of nostalgia. Ruth’s reflections on her past and the world of food reminded me of my own experiences and the meals that hold special memories.
Final Thoughts
“Save Me the Plums” is more than just a memoir; it’s a celebration of food, creativity, and resilience. I walked away feeling inspired, with a renewed appreciation for the culinary arts and the stories behind them. If you’re looking for a book that nourishes both the mind and the soul, I wholeheartedly recommend adding this gem to your collection. You won’t regret it!
Author Profile

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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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