Why This Cookbook

Whether you are a professional cook, chef, or a serious-minded foodie, you will love this cookbook. If you work in a restaurant, own a bed and breakfast, inn, or simply love cooking for family and friends you want the best. Old Hollywood's Original Recipes are perfect, because they have already been tried and proven successful. These recipes were served in some of the most iconic restaurants and hotels in the world, and in Hollywood, they received rave reviews.

Each mouth-watering recipe was either created by Chef Posti who apprenticed under the great French Chef Georges Auguste Escoffier or learned while working at some of the most noted eating establishments. Paul acquired the secret to making great ravioli while at Locano Capriano inVenice, and traditional English Pound cake while at Genaro's in Trafalgar Square, London. He learned to make authentic Spanish Paella while at the Badrutt Palace Hotel in ChelsaVeglla, St. Moritz Switzerland and in 1939 brought his knowledge and skill to Hollywood.

In 1946 while chef at the Brown Derby, along with owner Bob Cobb, Paul created the now famous Cobb Salad, which he literally concocted on the spot to please a demanding Cecil B. DeMille. He even had occasion to kick a hungry young kid named Elvis Presley out of his kitchen at the Knickerbocker Hotel where he made Elvis' special hamburger sauce. Yes, that too is in the cookbook. Later, Paul and The King became good friends. Mr. Frank Sinatra was introduced to Paul's cooking in 1936 where they began a life-long friendship. Paul would give him free meals to help him out during those difficult times early in Sinatra's career. So, what began as a kind gesture turned into a life-long friendship. Paul's philosophy was,"Cooking is the soul of partying, at all times and all ages." You can be sure that each recipe will give the best results in flavor, overall quality and will enrich your culinary experience.