A History of the World's 'Most Extravagant Hotel'

Midday on WNYC | May 15, 2018

Luke Barr discusses Ritz & Escoffier: The Hotelier, The Chef, and the Rise of the Leisure Class. Beginning in early August 1889, César Ritz, a Swiss hotelier, met Richard D'Oyly Carte, the financier of Gilbert & Sullivan's comic operas, who wanted to create the world's best hotel. D'Oyly Carte convinced Ritz to move to London with a team that included Auguste Escoffier, his chef de cuisine. The book charts the trio's foray into creating the most extravagant hotel the world had ever seen.

This show is guest hosted by Kai Wright. 

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Are Texas, Georgia and South Carolina Swing States Now?

The Brian Lehrer Show |

Cab Drivers On Strike in 'Waiting for Lefty'; Anthony Ippolito Plays Stallone in 'I Play Rocky'

All Of It with Alison Stewart |

Inside New York's bitter Republican civil war after blue wave

New York Republicans are openly calling for a shakeup of the state party.
Gothamist |

Pete Buttigieg on the Democrats’ Sweep of Congress, and Where They Go from Here

The former Transportation Secretary, who is a likely Presidential contender, talks about how a Democratic Congress will try to make an impact, even with an angry lame-duck President.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |
YOU ARE ONLINE