Communicators, Educators

In an era when independent bookstores struggle against online giants, Amanda Schulze and Tim White have thrived by championing food and wine literature. Books for Cooks has been a magnet and a sanctuary for food lovers since 1983, and under Amanda and Tim’s stewardship it has served as a cultural hub where chefs, writers and curious home cooks gather.

Thanks to their encyclopedic knowledge and truly exceptional list, every visit feels like a masterclass in food culture, and it’s not an accident that it’s top of the to-do list for international guests of the Festival. Whether hunting down rare, out-of-print titles or recommending classics, they connect people to stories, traditions and flavours from around the world. Their influence extends beyond the shelves, supporting publishing careers and promoting chefs, all the while keeping the personal touch.

"The shop itself is a destination for both local home cooks and visiting chefs and foodies. In my opinion, it’s essential visiting for any food lover," says Legends judge Sofia Levin. "Tim and Amanda firmly stand their ground as an independent retailer – of niche books! – in an online era."

"Indefatigable,” says Legends judge Dan Sims of Alice Zaslavsky. “Voracious. Unflagging. A champion. A cheerleader. A vegetable evangelist. Eternally enthusiastic. Everything she does is solid gold." She’s a broadcaster and an author who is also every inch the educator. As Dan says, she’s big on vegetables, and she’s also passionate about getting children and young people into the kitchen.

Operating at energy levels that would exhaust most mortals, Alice Zaslavsky has changed how Australians cook, eat and think about food through four cookbooks, countless media appearances and her award-winning newsletter. Whether responding personally to every recipe question on social media or promoting smaller producers, she brings joy and intelligence to everything she takes in hand. We are lucky to have her.