Overview
In Terre Haute, Indiana, Jeff and Kelly Ford have spent nearly two decades building J. Ford's Black Angus into one of the state's premier independent restaurants, earning the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for twelve consecutive years. Their success proves that exceptional dining is not reserved for major culinary capitals. It can thrive in a small Midwestern city where relationships matter, craftsmanship is valued, and guests are welcomed like family.
More than a cookbook, Small Town. Big Flavors is a celebration of culinary curiosity, hospitality, and community. Organized around the experience of dining at J. Ford's, the book features Signature Cocktails, Appetizers, Salads, Soups, Sandwiches, Steaks and Chops, Poultry and Meat, Fish and Seafood, Specialty Wine Dinners, Sides, and Desserts. Recipes range from Japanese A5 Wagyu Candle Dipper, King Crab Toast with Breaded Egg and Hollandaise, and Lobster Corn Dog Lollipops to Cocoa-Espresso Rubbed Filet Mignon, Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, Tea-Smoked Chicken, House Ham, Bread Pudding Made from the Best Donuts in Indiana, Gooey Butter Cake, and Peach Cobbler Frangipane.
Interwoven throughout are the stories that bring both the restaurant and its hometown to life, including the legend of Stiffy Green, the restoration of J. Ford's historic 1902 building, Jeff Ford's journey from life-threatening illness to celebrated chef, and Kelly Ford's passion for hospitality and wine. Together, these stories reveal why Terre Haute has long been known as the Crossroads of America. At its heart, Small Town. Big Flavors reminds us that great food is not defined by geography, but by passion, resilience, generosity, and the people gathered around the table. Through the story of one restaurant, it celebrates the communities, traditions, and entrepreneurial spirit that make small towns an enduring part of the American story.
While major retailers like Amazon may carry Small Town, Big Flavors (Recipes and Stories from "The Crossroads of America"), we specialize in bulk book sales and offer personalized service from our friendly, book-smart team based in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to offer a Price Match Guarantee and a streamlined ordering experience from people who truly care.
We’re trusted by over 75,000 customers, many of whom return time and again. Want proof? Just check out our 25,000+ customer reviews—real feedback from people who love how we do business.
Prefer to talk to a real person? Our Book Specialists are here Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST and ready to help with your bulk order of Small Town, Big Flavors (Recipes and Stories from "The Crossroads of America").