I recently had the pleasure of attending a dinner at a great local seafood restaurant, C & S Oyster Bar. The event, hosted by Toren Anderson Media & Events, was designed to bring attention to the wonderful cuisine being served nightly at C&S. In addition to the amazing dinner, Toren took the opportunity to let us all know about a good friend of hers with a truly inspirational story..

Hans Rueffert was diagnosed with stage-three stomach cancer shortly after finishing 3rd in the Next Food Network Star television series in 2005. Hans suffered greatly, losing most of his stomach and esophagus to the disease, but also found he gained something incredibly valuable; a unique perspective which has truly heightened his appreciation for the important things in his life… family, friends and flavors.

Hans continues to persevere; working with food, he followed up on his Next Star appearance with his own shows on Georgia Public Television. Hans Cooks the World Season 1 included 18 episodes and ended up winning three Telly Awards while Hans Cooks the South debuts in early 2009.

Eat Like There’s No Tomorrow is Hans’ latest offering; a beautifully illustrated cookbook sharing his uniquely optimistic perspective through original recipes, engaging narratives and bright, colorful photographs. This is more than a cookbook though, this is a food adventure from a narrator with devoted, childlike interest. Stories about searching for wild ramps and eating breakfast on board a shrimp boat are purposefully intertwined with recipes for cherry tomato curry and ricotta custard w/ spiced red wine poached pears. This is a true foodie find; a wonderful book for the kitchen, the coffee table or as a gift for a good friend… I can’t think of a better cause to support.

You can read more about the Hans Rueffert on his website, where you can also purchase his book.
Books can also be purchased at www.outofzbleu.com or amazon.com

-bryan