A celebration of accidental success in the world of gastronomy

Did you know that your morning coffee could be thanks to a herd of energetic goats? Or that a forgotten ingredient is behind the invention of the beloved brownie? Who got the fright of their life discovering corn could pop? And which popular soft drink started out as a medicinal syrup?

Oscar Farinetti, founder of high-end global food chain Eataly, presents this collection of insightful and entertaining interviews with leading artisan food producers, chefs, inventors and CEOs around the world. Reflecting on the accidental discoveries that gave birth to some of the world’s most well-known gastronomic delights – including Nutella, the humble sandwich, french fries, the ice-cream cone, rum and balsamic vinegar – these serendipitous tales ponder humankind’s never-ending quest to find something new, and remind us that our mistakes, our flaws, our failures, can often be the most essential ingredient in finding success.

‘This book explores the happy accidents that happen in the world of food and wine. A terrific and insightful read.’ —Andrew McConnell