Slow Food Seacoast will present a number of renowned food writers at The Pearl of Portsmouth on Wednesday, May 21. Hosted by local food writer and restaurant critic Rachel Forrest, the first ever Food Writers’ Night will feature a smorgasbord of readings and food samples from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Presenters at the event include New York Times columnist Denise Landis, author of “Dinner for Eight: 40 Great Dinner Party Menus for Friends and Family”; Jean Kerr, author of “Union Oyster House Cookbook” and “Mystic Seafood”; Kathy Gunst, resident chef on WBUR’s “Here and Now” and author of “Stonewall Kitchen Favorites” and “Stonewall Kitchen Harvest”; and James Haller, author of “Vie de France” and founder of the Blue Strawbery Restaurant.

Each of the authors will read from their books while guests sample dishes inspired by their work. Hors d’oeuvres will be served at 6:30 p.m. and readings begin at 7 p.m., with food and drink samplings between each reading. Local restaurants, caterers and purveyors will donate food, beer and wine for the event, and RiverRun Bookstore will offer signed copies of the authors’ books.
Slow Food Seacoast is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local food suppliers and promoting good, clean and fair food. The group plans to make Food Writers’ Night an annual event. Tickets for the evening are $55, including food and libations. Visit www.slowfoodseacoast.blogspot.com.