The Book and the Cook, with a vengeance

The Book and the Cook, the long-running Philly food event that pairs food-lovers and cookbook authors, will be back late next month. Just announced is a new expo, called the Foodie Venture Fair, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 25-26.

Previous B&C expos have been booksignings accompanied by food tastings. This year, B&C is partnering with the Enterprise Center at 46th and Market Streets for what event producer Judy Faye calls a "hybrid consumer show" at the center, which years ago was the home of "American Bandstand." The fair's targets are foodies as well as people who want to get into the food biz. (Want a million bucks in the food business? It's easy -- start with three million dollars.)

Besides booksignings and tastings, organizers promise culinary exhibits, presentations, a go-behind-the-scenes presentation on restaurant operation and ownership, and seminars on becoming a food entrepreneur.

The Book and the Cook's author pairings with local restaurants will take place Oct. 19-26. Lineup has not yet been posted at its website.