Nancy Astor and her niece Nancy Lancaster were two of the great hostesses of the twentieth century, entertaining at a pitch perfect level of luxury, comfort and elegance. The food they served was always delicious, and the culinary secrets from their family cookbook are published for the first time.
This book showcases timeless recipes and inspirations for the perfect party from cousins Nancy Astor and celebrated interior designer Nancy Lancaster, both renowned in twentieth-century Britain for entertaining with style, sophistication, and joie de vivre. Featuring original photography that highlights glam-orous menus, interior décor, table settings, and flower arrangements, this book is an homage to joyful entertaining in the English country house style. Nancy Astor and Nancy Lancaster, both born American, were renowned as two of Britain’s greatest party-givers, excelling at gracious entertaining, witty repartee, and above all sophisticated menus—talents rooted in their upbringing at Mirador, their Albemarle County, Virginia, family estate known for its superb food. The recent discovery of the original Mirador recipe collection, together with materials from Astor’s and Lancaster’s archives, provides the basis for this book, a collaboration between descendants of both women. With 75 recipes, the book showcases menus that combine classic English dishes with Southern Amer-ican classics such as corn fritters, fried chicken, and Pullman salad. Photographed at Cliveden, Nancy Astor’s country house, and Nancy Lancaster’s several homes, the book features the family’s original china, silver, and décor. Peppered throughout are previously unseen family photographs.