Yale historian Paul Freedman has released his newest book this year, Ten Restaurants That Changed America. Freedman synthesizes historical analysis, contemporary sources, and interviews in order to offer the reader an insight into how these household names developed and affected the American gastronomical landscape. With an introduction by Danny Meyer, this book offers much to those interested in American restaurant history. With colder weather approaching, its important to have a page-turner handy for those gloomy fall and winter days.

You can find out more about the book over at the WSJ.

For years cheap dumplings have been a staple of NYC’s Chinatown. Prosperity Dumpling – which recently relocated from Eldridge St. to Bensonhurst in Brooklyn – long offered 5 for $1 dumplings to hungry patrons with little money to spare. Vanessa’s Dumpling House, which has two locations in Manhattan and one in Brooklyn, likewise offers 4 dumplings for $1.50. Recently though more expensive options have been popping up. Nom Wah Tea Parlor offers Dim Sum offerings at its tiny walkup counter on Kenmare St. for those who wish to spend a bit more. Additionally, Mimi Cheng’s opened a location on Broome St. which offers composed Bento boxes for hungry lunchers looking for tasty dumplings. Seemingly the market will support both kinds of establishments serving different types of dumpling seekers.

You can read more about these two recent openings here.