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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.

Cooking

This Whipped Feta and Charred Scallion Dip Leaves French Onion in the ’90s

Thanks to lime juice and smoked paprika, she’s all grown up.
Culture

Looking For Quick Cooking Hacks? You Need to Be Following Babs

I turn to this viral TikTok nonna for spring cleaning ideas, simple recipes, and life advice.
Restaurants

How Bonnie’s Chef Calvin Eng Chills Out (And Makes Time for Reality TV)

The chef behind Brooklyn’s buzziest restaurant is all about MSG, ‘Below Deck,' and dirty martinis.
Shopping

Fudge Fans, Honey Mama's Chocolate Truffle Bars Are For You

An ode to the sweet, squishy side of life.
Culture

This App Taught Me Everything I Know About Cocktails

Bar menus used to fill me with dread. Not anymore!
Cooking

You Should Add Spices to Your Coffee Grounds

This simple trick almost made me a morning person.
Culture

Is Starting a Food Business Worth It Right Now?

Workers have been leaving jobs in droves to pursue their passions. But what are the costs of doing what you love for a living?
Culture

8 Food Couples on What They’re Actually Cooking for Valentine’s Day

From Netflix and hot fudge to prime rib and R&B. (Steal their ideas!)
Culture

I Thought Intuitive Eating Was Just Another Diet—Until I Tried It

It helped me feel more comfortable eating what I wanted, when I wanted.
Culture

These Cheddar-Colored Cargo Pants Carry 3 Pounds of Cheese

I tried on Tillamook's new cheese pants—and I shan't take them off.
Culture

Help! I’m Pretty Sure All This Booze Is Giving Me Acne

Does alcohol cause acne??? An investigation.
Restaurants

The Best Restaurant Meals of 2021, According to BA Staffers

From street cart skewers to perfect pastas, these are the meals that mattered most.
Cooking

How to Make Instant Mashed Potatoes Waaayyyy Better

Say it with us: salt! fat! acid! heat!
Cooking

Jalapeños Are Good. Pickled Jalapeños Are VERY Good

Jalapeños for pickle people.
Shopping

I Eat These Camping Meals Even When I’m Not Camping

Patagonia Provisions meal kits are perfect whether you’re on the go or on the couch.
Cooking

Allspice Is the Berry—Yes, Berry—That Can Do It All

Enigmatic, warm, and versatile, allspice is a true triple threat.