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Ali Francis head shot - Bon Appétit

Ali Francis

Editor

Ali is a writer and editor at Bon Appétit whose culture and lifestyle work includes reporting on the health claims behind fake meats, interviews with opinionated chefs about the evolution of restaurants, personal essays on the intersection of work and identity, and subtle attempts to propagate her favorite Australian foods. She developed the “Skeptic Tries” and “Cheap Tricks” columns, has contributed to various editorial packages on junk food and the future of dinner parties, and concocted a wild Thanksgiving personality quiz. Before joining Bon Appétit, Ali worked as a prep cook, agricultural reporter, creative director, and freelance writer, during which time her pieces were published in outlets like Narratively, Vogue, SELF, BBC, and Domino. She also sits on the Off Assignment advisory board where she offers solicited hot takes on editorial strategy. In five years from now, Ali hopes to become a surf instructor.

People Still Love Fine Dining—They Just Feel Guilty About It Now

With growing income inequality and endless stories of bad labor practices at upscale restaurants, who can blame them?

I Am Begging More Restaurants to Serve Big Hunks of Cheese as the Main Course

Think of cheese as a vegetarian alternative to branzino or a half-chicken: a deserving main dish that can be easily shared and accessorized with a rainbow of veg-heavy small plates.

Everyone’s Dog Is Named After Food Now and I’m Not Mad About It

Lasagna, Queso, Beef. This is a list of delicious things and also popular dog names.

Will I See Lab-Grown Meat in Supermarkets Any Time Soon?

The FDA just approved one company’s product—but the answer, like lab-grown meat itself, is complicated.

You Should (Really, Seriously) Clean Your Spice Jars

According to a new study, these are one of the germiest items in our kitchens.

Why Are Eggs So Expensive, and WTF Do I Cook Instead?

It’s a perfect storm for pricey eggs. But home cooks have options.

Are Gas Stoves Unsafe? Here's What to Know About the Gas vs. Induction Debate

Gas ranges are beloved in the US—but the US Consumer Food Safety Commission has recently raised concerns about their safety. 

18 Renowned Chefs, Food Critics, and Writers Weigh in on Noma Closing Its Doors

The food world is torn between reverence and resentment as the restaurant prepares to close for regular service.

On Soup Internet, Everything Is Cozy and Nothing Hurts

Thanks to soup girlies and their recipes and memes, it's always soup season on the internet now.

The Rise of the 'Social Omnivore,' the At-Home Vegetarian Who Still Eats Meat Socially

More people are opting into the "social omnivore" lifestyle—never eating meat at home but unwilling to give it up when out with family and friends.

What Is A2 Milk, Anyways?

This milk is on the rise thanks to its tummy-friendly reputation.

The Future of Fast Food Could Be Entirely Drive-Through

The ever-more prolific fast food drive-through reflects the fact that we’re not socializing as much anymore. When we are, we don’t want to do it in a Taco Bell.

My Chocolate Is Covered in a White Coating. Can I Eat It?

This common candy defect is known as bloom.

What We Don't Talk About When We Talk Fast Food's Chicken Sandwich Wars

Years after Popeye's viral moment, fast food companies are still fighting to create the hot new version. But what's the cost on our food system?

A Steamy Blind Taste Test of 7 Hot Chocolate Mixes

Only one reminded us of skating rink hot chocolate.

The Disgraced Fine Dining Restaurant Willows Inn Has Closed

After years of allegations detailing wage theft, sexual harassment, and racist bullying, one of the country’s most exclusive restaurants shuts down.

Why Bacon Still Has a Grip on Restaurants Everywhere

The bacon mania of the 2010s may have calmed down, but concepts like a new 24/7 bacon-themed restaurant in Vegas prove everyone's favorite protein is never, ever going away.

Anna ‘Delvey’ Sorokin Spills About Her Next Act—Dinner Parties on House Arrest

In an exclusive interview, the notorious fake heiress and con artist reflects on her time in prison and her next act.