Arak and Mezze celebrates two of the Levant's cherished traditions: the aniseed-flavoured spirit that inspired the great eaux de vie of Europe, and the appetizers that have become a byword for all that is delicious and healthy in Lebanese food. Karam and Schiller explore the roots of arak making, its place in the history of alcohol distillation, its role in Lebanese society and the way in which it has shaped the Lebanese rural tradition. Illustrated with Schiller's stunning images, Arak and Mezze is at once a travel book, a cookbook and a social history - a book to read and savour.