What do you get when you mix food, music, and storytelling? For Cincinnati author Nick Greenberg, the result is his exciting new book The Culinary Caper. It is the first in his trilogy called By Cook or By Crook and tells the story of a food truck chef who gets caught up in dangerous art heists.
Nick’s life is as colorful as his fiction. He is a musician, a former chocolate maker, and now an author. His experiences in all these areas have shaped the way he creates characters and builds stories.
Life In Cincinnati
Nick was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, just like his parents. His family moved away when he was very young, but the city later drew him back. He returned to attend the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. Since then, he has made Cincinnati his permanent home.
Chocolate Dreams
Love For Chocolate
Nick calls himself a true chocoholic. His journey into chocolate making began when his wife prepared holiday truffles. Inspired by her, he created a few original recipes and started selling them in local coffee shops, wine stores, and even the Esquire Theatre.
Even though people loved them, the process was exhausting. Making hundreds of chocolates took too much time, and the money didn’t cover his effort. Finally, he decided to stop selling them commercially. Still, he makes hundreds of truffles during the holidays and shares them with family and friends.
Similarities With Writing
Nick sees a strong link between writing and chocolate making. Both require creativity, trial, and patience. Just like testing different truffle flavors until one works, writing also takes many drafts before it feels right.
Creating The Culinary Caper
Why A Chef Character?
Nick has always admired chefs and their craft. He also secretly dreamed of being one. The idea of a food truck chef came from family talks about opening a truck themselves. That dream turned into the main character of The Culinary Caper.
Using Real-Life Experience
Though he didn’t base the character directly on himself, Nick used his own short experiences in the restaurant and catering industry. To make the book more realistic, he even interviewed a real food truck chef.
Love For Food
Nick enjoys trying creative meals from food trucks. His top pick? Korean tacos, a mix of flavors that surprised him.
When it comes to restaurants in Cincinnati, he praised Aperture. He enjoyed its beautiful space, friendly staff, and imaginative dishes. He is excited to take his sister there during her next visit.
Nick’s Music Career
Alongside writing, Nick is a freelance bassist. His work takes him to Broadway shows, jazz gigs, and symphony concerts. He also composes original music and has released songs with his band Equal Parts on streaming platforms.
Quick Facts About Nick Greenberg
Here’s a simple overview of Nick’s journey:
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Hometown | Cincinnati, Ohio |
| Book | The Culinary Caper (part of By Cook or By Crook) |
| Background | Musician, chocolatier, writer |
| Special Talent | Makes gourmet truffles during holidays |
| Music | Freelance bassist, band: Equal Parts |
| Food Inspiration | Korean tacos, local restaurant Aperture |
Nick Greenberg shows how different passions can shape great stories. His love for chocolate making, his respect for chefs, and his musical talent all add unique flavors to his writing.
The Culinary Caper is more than just a mystery—it is a story built on real experiences, making it both fun and authentic. Readers who enjoy food, creativity, and thrilling adventures will find his work truly engaging.
FAQs
What is Nick Greenberg’s book about?
His book The Culinary Caper follows a food truck chef who becomes involved in mysterious art heists.
Does Nick still make chocolate?
Yes, but only for holidays. He makes hundreds of truffles for family and friends instead of selling them.
What else does Nick do besides writing?
Nick is a freelance bassist who performs in concerts, jazz gigs, and Broadway shows. He also writes and records music.
