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Life Is a Party: Deliciously Doable Recipes to Make Every Day a Celebration
106 killer recipes, 16 creative party themes, and 250 gorgeous photos--plus playlists and easy planning tips--make LIFE IS A PARTY the indispensable cookbook and guide for home cooks.
Chef, actor, and entertaining authority David Burtka knows that every day can be a party. Over a lifetime of throwing epic gatherings, the Cordon Bleu-trained Burtka has perfected the formula for creating easy and perfect get-togethers at home. Now, in the pages of his debut cookbook, he's sharing all of his secrets and an intimate look into the lives of one of Hollywood's favorite families. Everything you need to throw a memorable party, or to make a delicious weeknight meal, can be found right here.
Whether your event and budget are modest or you're going all-out, and whether the guest list is an intimate crew or it's a blowout bash, David's sixteen party themes-from cozy game nights at home to elegant New Year's fêtes-are built around doable, show-stopping menus that take the guesswork out of high-impact hosting. Complete with endless and fun ways to mix-and-match dishes, create stunning decor, prep ahead, and get guests involved, David helps you put all the elements in place to make every party a success without ever losing your cool.
At the heart of the book are David's amazing recipes, including delicious twists on comfort classics like Corn Cakes with Bacon Jam, Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas, and Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwich Cake. And you don't need to wait for a party to try recipes like Ham, Egg, and Cheese Calzones; Mint Pesto Pasta; and Thyme and Gruyère Popovers. Never one to miss the opportunity to toast friends and family, David also shows you how to make delicious cocktails for a think Mojito Slushies, Charred Peach and Plum Sangria, and Cucumber-Lime Spritzers. So raise a glass and get cooking! Because there's no better time than now to make your life a party.
Chef, actor, and entertaining authority David Burtka knows that every day can be a party. Over a lifetime of throwing epic gatherings, the Cordon Bleu-trained Burtka has perfected the formula for creating easy and perfect get-togethers at home. Now, in the pages of his debut cookbook, he's sharing all of his secrets and an intimate look into the lives of one of Hollywood's favorite families. Everything you need to throw a memorable party, or to make a delicious weeknight meal, can be found right here.
Whether your event and budget are modest or you're going all-out, and whether the guest list is an intimate crew or it's a blowout bash, David's sixteen party themes-from cozy game nights at home to elegant New Year's fêtes-are built around doable, show-stopping menus that take the guesswork out of high-impact hosting. Complete with endless and fun ways to mix-and-match dishes, create stunning decor, prep ahead, and get guests involved, David helps you put all the elements in place to make every party a success without ever losing your cool.
At the heart of the book are David's amazing recipes, including delicious twists on comfort classics like Corn Cakes with Bacon Jam, Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas, and Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwich Cake. And you don't need to wait for a party to try recipes like Ham, Egg, and Cheese Calzones; Mint Pesto Pasta; and Thyme and Gruyère Popovers. Never one to miss the opportunity to toast friends and family, David also shows you how to make delicious cocktails for a think Mojito Slushies, Charred Peach and Plum Sangria, and Cucumber-Lime Spritzers. So raise a glass and get cooking! Because there's no better time than now to make your life a party.
- GenresCookbooksNonfictionFood
304 pages, Hardcover
Published April 16, 2019
40 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
David Burtka
6 books9 followersDavid Burtka is an award-winning and sought-after host, chef, caterer, and actor. He has appeared on Broadway and in numerous television programs. David studied at The Cordon Bleu culinary school and interned at the acclaimed restaurant Babbo. He has also worked with Cat Cora, Thomas Keller, and Ina Garten. His Food Network special, Life’s A Party with David Burtka, aired in 2016 and was awarded a Telly Award and 1st Prize at the New York Film and TV Awards.
David lives in New York with his husband, Neil Patrick Harris, and their twin children, Gideon and Harper.
David lives in New York with his husband, Neil Patrick Harris, and their twin children, Gideon and Harper.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 22, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved this cookbook, one of the best at combining interesting dishes and suggestion/advice on throwing get togethers. If you're fan of David Burtka, you'll greatly enjoy the intimate feel, the big glossy pictures of family and friends as he invites you into his world for a while. If you like being the go-to house for gatherings, you'll love the ideas you'll get from this book.
Burtka organizes the book into seasonal categories and provides different levels, a basic, upgraded, or over-the-top party and dishes, easy, moderate, or involved, to help you create your ideal party. The menu provides for meat eaters and vegetarians and has clear pictures of finished products to help you design the best final product presentation.
The dishes I tried out:
Spring – Dig-in Brunch - Rhubarb-Ginger Crumb Muffins
These were “Easy” and even though they are from scratch, I agree. Even more importantly, they tasted fresh, light, and delicious.
Summer – Summer SOULstice – Mint Pesto Pasta
This was also labeled as “Easy” and again, I feel newish cooks wouldn't have a problem creating this dish. The taste wowed me and the friends I made this for. It is a seemingly innocuous dish that packs a punch.
Fall – Fright Night – Roasted Squash Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette and Spicy Pepitas
This fell under the “Moderate” label, it was time consuming, 2hrs, and some of the process I could see new to cooking people struggle with. I loved how all the ingredients were truly seasonal but making it for a Halloween Party might be a struggle, I think a simple family night would be a great time to try this. All the flavors combined together beautifully.
Winter – Game Night – Chicken Tot Pie
This was also “Moderate”. What I loved about this one was the warm, textured taste. I also liked how different variation ideas were listed so that you could create a family favorite.
All the recipes were inventive but also not too intimidating to take on. This probably veers more towards moderate to experienced cooks because of the effort you might have to make to find the ingredients and some preparation and actually cooking. The instructions were clear, concise, and easy to follow, so adventurous newbies could try.
The party ideas were brilliant and fun. Along with the menu ideas, Burtka gives ideas to what guests can bring, how to get them involved, and parting gifts. For a party newbie, like me, I loved how he worked to take the anxiety out of planning togethers, he breaks advice for planners down to what to wear, activities, and how to plan ahead. Each party or themed night is also provided with a playlist from Spotify (the songs are listed) to help you set the right vibe.
This is a must have for party planners from basic to over-the-top and cooks who want to make inventive and flavorful dishes. The suggestions, advice, and different variations to try will have your friends and family singing your praises, so much fun to be had from this book.
I loved this cookbook, one of the best at combining interesting dishes and suggestion/advice on throwing get togethers. If you're fan of David Burtka, you'll greatly enjoy the intimate feel, the big glossy pictures of family and friends as he invites you into his world for a while. If you like being the go-to house for gatherings, you'll love the ideas you'll get from this book.
Burtka organizes the book into seasonal categories and provides different levels, a basic, upgraded, or over-the-top party and dishes, easy, moderate, or involved, to help you create your ideal party. The menu provides for meat eaters and vegetarians and has clear pictures of finished products to help you design the best final product presentation.
The dishes I tried out:
Spring – Dig-in Brunch - Rhubarb-Ginger Crumb Muffins
These were “Easy” and even though they are from scratch, I agree. Even more importantly, they tasted fresh, light, and delicious.
Summer – Summer SOULstice – Mint Pesto Pasta
This was also labeled as “Easy” and again, I feel newish cooks wouldn't have a problem creating this dish. The taste wowed me and the friends I made this for. It is a seemingly innocuous dish that packs a punch.
Fall – Fright Night – Roasted Squash Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette and Spicy Pepitas
This fell under the “Moderate” label, it was time consuming, 2hrs, and some of the process I could see new to cooking people struggle with. I loved how all the ingredients were truly seasonal but making it for a Halloween Party might be a struggle, I think a simple family night would be a great time to try this. All the flavors combined together beautifully.
Winter – Game Night – Chicken Tot Pie
This was also “Moderate”. What I loved about this one was the warm, textured taste. I also liked how different variation ideas were listed so that you could create a family favorite.
All the recipes were inventive but also not too intimidating to take on. This probably veers more towards moderate to experienced cooks because of the effort you might have to make to find the ingredients and some preparation and actually cooking. The instructions were clear, concise, and easy to follow, so adventurous newbies could try.
The party ideas were brilliant and fun. Along with the menu ideas, Burtka gives ideas to what guests can bring, how to get them involved, and parting gifts. For a party newbie, like me, I loved how he worked to take the anxiety out of planning togethers, he breaks advice for planners down to what to wear, activities, and how to plan ahead. Each party or themed night is also provided with a playlist from Spotify (the songs are listed) to help you set the right vibe.
This is a must have for party planners from basic to over-the-top and cooks who want to make inventive and flavorful dishes. The suggestions, advice, and different variations to try will have your friends and family singing your praises, so much fun to be had from this book.
April 15, 2019
Life is a Party By David Burtka is a very enjoyable cookbook. It has recipes that you would like to cook along with some ideals that maybe you haven't thought of. In addition it has some great picture letting us into his life with his actor husband. I am very happy to have this book. I love looking through cookbooks almost as much as a photo album. It brings joy for me and this one definitely did...then you have the added bonus of the recipes.
April 15, 2019
This is such a fun cookbook!
Personally I'm not a super social person but this cookbook has me itching to throw a dinner party. There are themes for every season along with activity ideas, music playlists, and delicious looking food.
Tonight I made two recipes from the cookbook and they turned out amazing. Even kid approved! The instructions were easy to follow and the ingredients were either on hand or easy to pick up from my local store. Throughout the cookbook there are different level recipes for different events along with fun beverages with recipes that include or omit alcohol.
I have at least six other recipes flagged that I'm dying to try soon!
Personally I'm not a super social person but this cookbook has me itching to throw a dinner party. There are themes for every season along with activity ideas, music playlists, and delicious looking food.
Tonight I made two recipes from the cookbook and they turned out amazing. Even kid approved! The instructions were easy to follow and the ingredients were either on hand or easy to pick up from my local store. Throughout the cookbook there are different level recipes for different events along with fun beverages with recipes that include or omit alcohol.
I have at least six other recipes flagged that I'm dying to try soon!
May 12, 2019
I thought the food was really well photographed and the recipes were interesting. I'd probably make some of the recipes...
But I was annoyed by the posed photos of people having *so* much fun and the author's husband Neil Patrick Harris popping up all over the book with his cool and charming host act. The playlists for parties were nothing I'd have playing in the background of a party I'd hold.
It's worth noting again, the recipes and meal-party ideas were well done and I'd use some of them -- but to me, it's a library book check out instead of owning it.
But I was annoyed by the posed photos of people having *so* much fun and the author's husband Neil Patrick Harris popping up all over the book with his cool and charming host act. The playlists for parties were nothing I'd have playing in the background of a party I'd hold.
It's worth noting again, the recipes and meal-party ideas were well done and I'd use some of them -- but to me, it's a library book check out instead of owning it.
April 21, 2019
Life is a Party is a fun and entertaining read along with all the delicious sounding recipes. There were plenty of photos of the food, the guests and the settings. I liked that each season was broken into sections with several holidays or occasions being highlighted. The recipes seem uncomplicated although some of the ingredients were over the top.
The book is colorful and I loved the playlists. Each section listed party basics, party upgrades and over-the-top ideas based on your wallet and comfort level. There were other suggestions about how to get your guests involved or what they could contribute, how to decorate the table, recommended flowers, craft projects, planning ahead as well as activities and gifts for the guests. The introduction and his rules were a nice addition and I like that the recipes stated how many it would serve as well as the prep and cooking times. Missing for me was any nutritional information which I feel should be a part of every cookbook although very often it isn't.
There are definitely some recipes I will give a try and some I may try with a twist that would suit my family and friends better - whether a spice or less sugar or a different vegetable. All in all an enjoyable read with this cookbook that tells a story!
The book is colorful and I loved the playlists. Each section listed party basics, party upgrades and over-the-top ideas based on your wallet and comfort level. There were other suggestions about how to get your guests involved or what they could contribute, how to decorate the table, recommended flowers, craft projects, planning ahead as well as activities and gifts for the guests. The introduction and his rules were a nice addition and I like that the recipes stated how many it would serve as well as the prep and cooking times. Missing for me was any nutritional information which I feel should be a part of every cookbook although very often it isn't.
There are definitely some recipes I will give a try and some I may try with a twist that would suit my family and friends better - whether a spice or less sugar or a different vegetable. All in all an enjoyable read with this cookbook that tells a story!
April 2, 2019
My Review: My goodness this book about killed me when I started flipping pages. And I have to say that I have created a massive list of things from this title that I can not wait to make. Especially those Ancho Chile-Mexican Chocolate Cookies, those things looked divine!!!! I really loves how this book is split up via seasons and that each one really comes with a drink, appetizer, and then your main course and sides. As well as giving us stories about these people's lives. I loved seeing these two with family and friends and their kids.
These recipes could become household favorites very soon and I love that each one is way down to earth. When the title said doable recipes it meant it. I even think that kids could help so it could be something that the entire family helps out with.
These recipes could become household favorites very soon and I love that each one is way down to earth. When the title said doable recipes it meant it. I even think that kids could help so it could be something that the entire family helps out with.
February 20, 2020
Burtka–chef, actor, and entertainment guru–puts the glitter in party planning with sixteen seasonally themed events. Colorful photos, inventive menus, easy tips, and great ideas for engaging the guests are its calling card but the delicious recipes might just become staples of your weeknight rotation. Burtka makes it easy to turn any party into a memorable occasion. Pecan Streusel-Topped Baked Apples are perfect for a fall party brunch or any day of the week.
2020 CODES List Winners Announced
2020 CODES List Winners Announced
July 9, 2019
I enjoyed this book sooo much! I love a good party and even more I love the planning and special thought that goes into one.
This book covers all the little things - from the prep days ahead to what to send home with your guests.
The pictures were beautiful and very intimate, the recipes were wonderful but were also simple to perform.
This is great for the party planner in your life or even wonderful just as a cookbook!
This book covers all the little things - from the prep days ahead to what to send home with your guests.
The pictures were beautiful and very intimate, the recipes were wonderful but were also simple to perform.
This is great for the party planner in your life or even wonderful just as a cookbook!
July 20, 2019
Lots of good party ideas and recipes. But why not give us the flour in ounces as well as cups? We have blackberries (6-ounces; 1 1/2 cups) and 1 piece fresh ginger (1 1/2 to 2-inch piece; about 4 teaspoons) plus other items spelled out. Is flour 4 1/4 ounces or 5 ounces?
I hate to be a whiner, but I like baking recipes to be more explicit.
Apart from that little whinge, I found this high-energy book colorful, fun, and inspiring.
I hate to be a whiner, but I like baking recipes to be more explicit.
Apart from that little whinge, I found this high-energy book colorful, fun, and inspiring.
August 21, 2020
I love this book! It makes me want to have a party! :) It was everything I expected, and more. The layout of the book is phenomenal, and the personal pictures are a bonus. The recipes range from sophisticated to super-easy, and I love that. Oh... David also includes a playlist for each dinner party... come on!!! What's not to love??? I highly recommend this for food/party enthusiasts and for those who aspire to be food/party enthusiasts. Love, Love, Love!!!
July 13, 2019
A nice book with great photography and some good ideas and recipes. I especially liked the addition of the playlists. Although some of the party ideas sound very labor intensive and expensive to put together, the book can be used as a great jumping off point to putting together your own party with your own ideas. This book is well worth s browse.
Read
April 23, 2020This was fun! Lots of ideas, and some interesting recipes. My favorites were the grilled tofu skewers, the mashed potato biscuits, and the thyme & gruyere popovers.
The play lists were cute but not subtle-- I was looking for something unexpected. I also wanted more pictures of the table settings, but instead there are pages and pages of random, happy people.
The play lists were cute but not subtle-- I was looking for something unexpected. I also wanted more pictures of the table settings, but instead there are pages and pages of random, happy people.
April 30, 2019
Life Is a Party is just a beautifully crafted book and I couldn't wait to dive right in. David Burtka is the king of hosting parties and this book gives you many ideas. I loved how he included a spotify playlist to accompany each party. The pictures of his family and friends were so fun. If you love to be the host/hostess, you will love this book!
May 26, 2019
Makes me want to have a party
This book was well put together and makes me want to host a dinner party next weekend.
The recipes are easy to follow and the pictures make even the ones with ingredients I don’t like like delicious.
This book was well put together and makes me want to host a dinner party next weekend.
The recipes are easy to follow and the pictures make even the ones with ingredients I don’t like like delicious.
September 22, 2019
A very fun book with lot of great ideas. The recipes are great but i found the party planning ideas even more captivating. As someone who has entertained groups of kids I take away some great party ideas. The playlists are pretty good also.
July 2, 2025
I love NPH and after seeing pics of the two of them together I instantly loved David too. so I was absolutely biased going into this lol
I watched "Drag Me to Dinner" and then read this to learn more about David/tips and tricks as I'd found him to be absolutely endearing whilst being informative.
I watched "Drag Me to Dinner" and then read this to learn more about David/tips and tricks as I'd found him to be absolutely endearing whilst being informative.
June 11, 2019
It is indeed a party in a book , I like it a lot 👍🏻
July 7, 2019
Great fun. Wonderful recipes. I totally recommend this book.
July 10, 2019
Full of fantastic party ideas and recipes.
July 16, 2019
Nothing stuck out to me, but he does have a lot of fun ideas for parties.
March 2, 2020
Fun cookbook in kind of party order. Guest activites are included as well as ideas for drinks and party favors and gifts. Alot of fun pictures.
February 21, 2024
Love the photographs depicted in this book! He has some really yummy recipes I’d love to try and they don’t have to break the pocket either.
August 7, 2020
L viii I
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews