About the Author

Meet Justin Koochof, author of the cookbook Just a Dinner Party. Justin is a self-taught home chef who lives in Seattle, Washington and uses cooking as a vehicle to explore his heritage, connect with his family, and cultivate community.

Justin Koochof is a self-taught home cook who has drawn upon his heritage, experiences, and intuition to create an eclectic array of recipes and entertaining tips that are compiled in this cookbook. Justin is a first generation LA native who currently resides in Seattle.

Justin was introduced to a variety of different cuisines through his parents’ Spanish, Mexican and Persian-Armenian backgrounds, and his roots are a motif throughout his cooking.

His culinary exploration has been a vehicle for him to connect more deeply with both his culture and his community. Over good wine, great conversation, and even better food, Justin found that he is best able to express his gratitude for his upbringing by sharing his and his family’s recipes with his loved ones; it is through food that Justin has developed his sense of community. 

Cooking has the same purpose for Justin that it did when he was growing up: a way to care for the people he loves. This book was created around the joy of cooking, not only for oneself, but for others—no matter the occasion. More than just a list of recipes to follow, this book is a guide for the modern dinner party.

Throughout Just A Dinner Party, Justin will take you on a journey of flavors, tips, and tricks that he has practiced and perfected along the way—from full menus to curated accompaniments for themed parties. Whether an elegant or everyday occasion, he welcomes you to pour yourself a glass and join him at the table to celebrate the beautiful messiness that is Just A Dinner Party!