Rachael Ray Heats Up Local Scene

What’s not to love about Rachael Ray? She’s sweet, she’s funny and she’s a petite powerhouse in the kitchen. And last Friday, she paid Fairfield County a visit while promoting her latest book, Look and Cook. Fans converged in droves on Borders Books in Fairfield for a chance to meet America’s culinary sweetheart.

Her devotees brought babies, grandparents and treats from their own kitchens -- not to mention plenty of books awaiting autographs -- and hung around for a chance to pay homage to the daytime television personality.

“I’m overwhelmed,” said trembling fan, Kathy Bambino of Bridgeport. “She’s even more beautiful in person. I cook a meal of hers every single day.”

“She really does,” said Kathy’s daughter, Gina, who works as a Fairfield Animal Control Officer. “At dinner, there’s always a Rachael recipe waiting on the table. She’s been doing it for at least two years.”

Kathy’s emotion was brought on by a hug she received from Rachael after offering the lively chef cupcakes she’d made for the occasion.

“They’re topped with coconut and drunken cherries,” said Kathy.

Upon receiving the sweets, Rachael announced to the packed room, “That’s my lunch!”

No stranger to the spotlight and throngs of adoring fans, Rachael is as gracious in person as she seems on television.

“It’s so wonderful to get out of the studio and meet people,” Rachael said. “It’s a great way to check in, see who’s watching. Different generations of whole families come out. And it’s fun to see the unexpected fan, the fireman, the stay-at-home dad. Plus, I get feedback, what people liked, what’s working. At the end of every event, I make a laundry list of fan comments and I incorporate it into what I do.”

As for what fans can expect from her latest cookbook, she says, “It’s really the biggest value book I’ve done so far. It’s like a paint-by-numbers guide to dozens of recipes. And we’re trying to keep it relevant, so we’ve introduced an online companion to the book. So you can literally be in your kitchen with your computer and your cookbook and cook along with me.”

She’s even introduced something for the underage culinary prodigy. “There’s a section in the book for kids who like to cook, with cartoons and children’s recipes,” Rachael said. “In this book, there’s really something for everyone.”

Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.