OP: The Last Course

Random House, 2001. Hardcover. Very Good. First printing.

One of the most admired and talked-about dessert books of this century, The Last Course (2001) was once very difficult to find. The reason is that, shortly after its publication, author and esteemed pastry chef of New York’s Gramercy Tavern, Claudia Fleming, left to open her own restaurant. As the book was closely associated with Gramercy Tavern, it was discontinued and never reprinted. 

The book developed an almost mythical status. As no one who owned a copy would dare let it out of their sight, demand forced prices into the several hundred dollar range. Our waitlist never seemed to get shorter.

The book was finally reissued in 2019, democratizing access once again. Coming across a first printing, like we offer here, remains a matter of luck and/ or perseverance.

Combining classic methods, innovative ideas, and meticulous style, The Last Course’s utility for pastry professionals and serious home cooks has never waned in the 20+ years since its original publication.

This copy is in Very Good condition. Other than some shelfwear and discoloration to the jacket, this is about as nice of a copy we could expect for the beloved book.