Working the plate : the art of food presentation / Christopher Styler ; photography by David Lazarus.

Includes index.

The minimalist -- The architect -- The artist -- Contemporary European style -- Asian influences -- The naturalist -- Dramatic flair -- Desserts: classic and contemporary.

"A book for professionals and sophisticated home cooks who want to take their skills to the next level. Working the Plate goes beyond adding a drizzle of something here or a sprig of something there to explore both the principles and the art of food presentation. Christopher Styler shares the secrets of seven contemporary plating styles : The Minimalist, The Architect, The Artist, Contemporary European Style, Asian Influences, The Naturalist, and Dramatic Flair. He also reveals the thoughts of ten leading chefs on the art of plating, from Terrance Brennan and Emily Luchetti to Suzanne Goin and Marcus Samuelsson." "Working the Plate includes several examples of each plating style. Color photographs show both finished plates and the steps involved to duplicate the techniques behind such dishes as Roasted Quail with Chard and Potatoes, Parmesan Crusted Lamb Chops with Swirled Root Puree and Pea Sauce, Skate and Angel Hair Pasta with Caper Butter, Soba-Tofu Salad in a Nori Cone, and Bird's Nest Brunch." "With this overview of popular plating styles, you'll see how you can vary approaches and add a distinctive dash of elan and panache to the dishes you serve."--Jacket.