The Foodie IndexDowntown’s Central Public Library, which...

The Foodie Index

Downtown’s Central Public Library, which should already be on every foodie’s must-visit list for its fabulous cookbook collection, just got better. Now, downtown visitors (and those logging on from several branches) can explore the the library’s extensive collection of food-related advertising ephemera and restaurant menus. The database lists hundreds of recipe booklets and information packets, covering everything from canned soup to bananas, as well as menus from all over the world dating back to the 1880s. To examine the actual collection, you’ll still need to make an appointment through the rare book room ([213] 228-7350), but instead of thumbing through folder after folder in search of something that may or may not be there, at least now you know what you’re looking for and where to look.