This mouthwatering book presents 38 of the finest pastry chefs working worldwide today, together with samples of their glorious, highly sophisticated confections. Some of the chefs are up-and-coming, others are well established; all are innovative pioneers in a uniquely appealing creative field. Profiles of each pâtissier include an informative biography giving a sense of their individual style. Also included are scores of recipes for world-class cakes, tarts, biscuits, petits fours, plated desserts, pastries, confectionery, chocolate, ice creams and sorbets, with a final chapter focusing on the lavish sugar-paste world of celebratory cakes. Offering a wealth of inspiring and delicious material, this book is a must for professional pastry chefs, keen amateurs and anyone interested in the gourmet lifestyle.