“Food People Are The Best People”

There’s no denying that those in the food industry are struggling mightily during the pandemic. The new book, “Food People Are The Best People” (Acorn Press) spotlights how 129 renowned California food and beverage professionals are coping and what inspires them during this unprecedented time.

The book is by Oakland-based photographer and storyteller Kristen Loken, who also did the book, “This Is Oakland A Guide to the City’s Most Interesting Places” (Acorn), which published in 2014.

This new book features such local luminaries as Alice Waters of Chez Panisse, Charlie Palmer of the Charlie Palmer Collective, David Kinch of Manresa, Jen Biesty of Shakewell, Michelle Polzine of 20th Century Cafe, and Susan Feniger of Border Grill. Along with a beautiful portrait shot, there is a short Q&A with each of the featured professionals.

Purchase the book here: A regular copy is $35, a signed copy is $50, and a copy of the book along with a chance to get your own porch portrait taken by Loken is $295.

Fifteen percent of all profits will be donated to No Kid Hungry.

Season 2 of “Tanya’s Table”

Following the success of her debut podcast series, Oakland chef Tanya Holland launches season 2 of “Tanya’s Table” on Jan. 19.

Tune in as 14 celebrity guests dish with the Brown Sugar Kitchen chef about food, culture, mentors, and the roller-coaster ride of triumphs and successes.

Among the guests this season are: Ayesha Curry (Jan. 19), Danny Glover (Jan. 26), Jonny Moseley (March 19), and Edouardo Jordan (April 13).

The podcasts, in partnership with MuddHouse Media, will air every Tuesday on all major podcast platforms through April 20.

San Francisco Wine School Classes

Admittedly, we’re all probably drinking more wine at home now than we ever have. As you sip, why not learn, too?

Even during shelter in place, the San Francisco Wine School is hosting classes — albeit virtually. Its professional-type courses might be beyond the budgets of a lot of folks, but its public events are a bit easier on the pocketbook and more suited to lay enthusiasts.

Upcoming is an especially fun one: a virtual cooking class with chef Martin Yan, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 27. It includes wine pairings from Prologue Wine Co.

The $195 ticket price includes an autographed copy of the “Yan Can Cook” cookbook, Yan’s signature knife and scissors, and three bottles of wine from Prologue Wine.

In this virtual, interactive class, Yan will teach you how to cook a series of signature dishes, while Prologue founder and San Francisco Wine School instructor Zach Pace offers insight about the selected wines.

For those in California, the last day to book this class is Jan. 20 to ensure the wines are shipped to you in time.