Hunter Lu
Freelance writer
Hunter Lu is a New York-based food and features writer, NYU graduate, and Iraq veteran. His fiction has appeared in The Line Literary Review and The Bangalore Review, and his nonfiction has appeared in Foreign Policy Magazine, Atlas Obscura, Greatist, Edible Queens, The Cleaver Quarterly, and The War Horse.
Send all editorial inquiries HERE.
Want incredible sushi in NYC? Go to this speakeasy (really!)
Does a sushi speakeasy pique your curiosity? The Office of Mr. Moto, New York's newest sushi speakeasy, is a culinary journey you won't soon forget.
The 7 best CBD-infused drinks we tried in 2023
From tasty fruit flavors to drinks that help to de-stress and mellow out, these are our favorite CBD-infused drinks.
Expert pitmasters reveal their top tips to make smoked brisket
If you've ever wanted to barbecue a brisket in your own backyard, these six experts tip from professional pitmasters will guide you through the process.
This NYC restaurant’s $518, 19-course tasting menu of Chinese cuisine is amazing
For a taste of what the emperor of China once ate, try the food at Chef Guo in NYC. While expensive, the experience is well worth the price tag.
How to make an omelet: A step-by-step guide for the perfect breakfast
The omelet is a classic dish great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. See how to make a perfect omelet every time.
The 5 best Irish food recipes for a tasty St. Patrick’s Day feast
If you're looking for a perfect Saint Patrick's day celebration, make these delicious and crowd-pleasing Irish recipes.
Nam prik, the fiery Thai chili dip you should be adding to everything
Spicy and complex, nam prik is a Thai chili sauce you'll crave after one bite. Interested? Chef Prasert of Spicy Shallot is here with the details.
The ultimate guide to world-class seafood paella, according to an executive chef
Want to make seafood paella? We've gathered insight from expert chef Miguel Molina to learn how to make world-class seafood paella.
5 incredible corned beef hash recipes for St. Patrick’s Day
Kick your traditional Irish-American meal this St. Patrick's Day up a notch by making some amazing corned beef hash.
A chef breaks down East Coast vs. West Coast oysters (plus, which is best)
A chef breaks down East Coast vs. West Coast oysters (plus, which is best)
Oysters are delicious and confusing. Chef Michael Cressotti of Mermaid Oyster Bar explains the differences between East Coast and West Coast oysters for us.
Make these 5 easy appetizer dips for your Super Bowl party
Make these 5 easy appetizer dips for your Super Bowl party
For this Super Bowl, make these delicious and easy dips for an epic game day.
The best Super Bowl snacks: Your party will be a win even if your team sucks
The best Super Bowl snacks: Your party will be a win even if your team sucks
Are you looking to up your snack and appetizer game? Then you need to learn how to make these delicious and unique Super Bowl snack recipes.
These creative, indulgent Valentine’s Day breakfast recipes are tasty treats
These creative, indulgent Valentine’s Day breakfast recipes are tasty treats
Celebrate this Valentine's Day with these five delicious and indulgent breakfast recipes.
How to make Korean BBQ at home: Everything you need to know
Korean barbecue is perfect for a family dinner or social gathering — no matter the weather.
Experts agree: The salmon cooking tips you need to tap its great benefits
Experts agree: The salmon cooking tips you need to tap its great benefits
There are several health benefits of salmon, a deliciously versatile fish. It's a nutritious superfood that's a great fit for any healthy diet.
A chef’s guide to making the perfect Korean fried chicken
A chef’s guide to making the perfect Korean fried chicken
While making Korean fried chicken at home might seem intimidating, the finished product is well worth the adventure.
Upgrade your filet mignon with a decadent King Crab sauce fit for royalty
Filet mignon is already delicious, but why not upgrade it with King Crab? For the best Steak Oscar recipe, read our recipe guide to learn more.
How to make chai tea: 2 tasty recipes for a homemade delight
An excellent beverage for any weather, a cup of creamy Indian chai is second to none. Read on to learn all the tips and tricks to making this amazing drink.
The 5 best Indian butter chicken recipes we’ve tasted
Satisfy your craving for Indian butter chicken without going to a restaurant with these crowd-pleasing butter chicken recipes from Indian cuisine experts.
3 unique Thanksgiving desserts that have nothing to do with pie
Bake outside the box with these creative dessert recipes for Thanksgiving.
The ultimate guide to Argentinian barbecue, according to an expert
Learn all about making perfect Argentinian grilled meats, one of the most delicious barbecue styles in the world.
A Guide to Modern Chinese Drinks from an Expert Mixologist
While not traditionally known for cocktails, a new wave of modern Chinese restaurant cocktails programs is changing that dynamic.
An Expert Guide to Unique Japanese Wagyu Cuts
Japanese beef is some of the most unique in the world. To learn more, read this in-depth guide from the experts at Holy Grail Steak Company.
Need to Elevate Your Pasta Dishes? Learn How To Make Pesto
Need to Elevate Your Pasta Dishes? Learn How To Make Pesto
This easy and delicious pesto recipe is a perfect accompaniment to just about any dish.
You Need To Try These 2 Middle Eastern Inspired Cocktails
You Need To Try These 2 Middle Eastern Inspired Cocktails
Looking to up your cocktail game? Explore the distinct ingredients and flavors of the Middle East to take your cocktails to the next level.
A New Cookbook from a Leading Voice of West Coast Barbecue
A New Cookbook from a Leading Voice of West Coast Barbecue
Pitmaster Matt Horn is sharing his unique style of West Coast barbecue in a brand-new cookbook.
A Master Class on Classic French Duck a l’Orange
A Master Class on Classic French Duck a l’Orange
Learn how to make classic duck a l'orange from modern French restaurant Chanson Le Salon.
From the NFL to Food TV, Chef Tobias’ Unique Journey
From the NFL to Food TV, Chef Tobias’ Unique Journey
Former NFL player, chef Tobias Dorzon shares with The Manual his interesting life journey to becoming a food media star.
5 Classic Italian Pasta Recipes to Make at Home
5 Classic Italian Pasta Recipes to Make at Home
For a delicious and ambitious Italian feast, indulge yourself with these five classic Italian pasta recipes, a must-cook for any pasta lover.
A Fun and New Outdoor Cookbook From Men With The Pot
A Fun and New Outdoor Cookbook From Men With The Pot
With millions of followers on social media, Men With The Pot is bringing their amazing outdoor recipes to print with a brand-new cookbook.
The Art of Mastering Asian Ingredients in Cocktails
The Art of Mastering Asian Ingredients in Cocktails
Kira Webster, an award-winning beverage director, is here to share her expertise on creating and balancing the best Asian ingredients for cocktails.
The 5 Best Mardi Gras Recipes To Celebrate Fat Tuesday
The 5 Best Mardi Gras Recipes To Celebrate Fat Tuesday
Even if you don't live in New Orleans, there's no reason for you to party and make these best festive Mardi Gras recipes for the perfect celebration at home.
Meet EatOkra, an App Highlighting Black-Owned Restaurants
Meet EatOkra, an App Highlighting Black-Owned Restaurants
Husband and wife team Anthony and Janique Edwards are revolutionizing the landscape for Black-owned restaurants.
A Guide to Sicilian Wines, the Best-Kept Secret of Italy
A Guide to Sicilian Wines, the Best-Kept Secret of Italy
Sicilian wines are increasingly becoming some of the best wines not only in Italy but also in the world. An expert gives us the rundown.
Life-Saving Outdoor Self-Defense Skills from an Ex CIA Spy
Life-Saving Outdoor Self-Defense Skills from an Ex CIA Spy
Former CIA officer and Arlington County Police officer Jason Hanson shares some critical self-defense and survival skills to secure yourself outdoors.
Learn to Make Galbi-jjim a Korean Braised Short Rib Recipe
Learn to Make Galbi-jjim a Korean Braised Short Rib Recipe
For the perfect cold weather food, make galbi-jjim, a Korean braised beef dish once enjoyed by royalty.
Chef Roy Choi Discusses the New Season of Broken Bread
Chef Roy Choi Discusses the New Season of Broken Bread
Roy Choi showcases various issues and passionate innovators within the food industry on the second season of Broken Bread.
Meet Firelli Hot Sauce Brand Made With Calabrian Peppers
Meet Firelli Hot Sauce Brand Made With Calabrian Peppers
Firelli, a food company based in Parma, Italy is making the world's only bottled brand of Italian style hot sauce.
The Incredible Health Benefits of Tuna Fish
The Incredible Health Benefits of Tuna Fish
A seafood expert guides The Manual on a comprehensive overview of the nutritional benefits of tuna.
The Art of Stir-Fried Shrimp from a Chinese Master Chef
The Art of Stir-Fried Shrimp from a Chinese Master Chef
Philippe Chow, a celebrity hotspot in New York, shows The Manual the art of stir-frying shrimp.
The Stellar Health Benefits of Wine Explained
The Stellar Health Benefits of Wine Explained
ETTORE, an organic winery in California, shows its expertise on the health benefits of wine.
These are the Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Desserts
These are the Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Desserts
Three decadent gluten-free chocolate dessert recipes that are perfect for any holiday or dinner party.
This is How You Make the Perfect Flaky Pie Crust
This is How You Make the Perfect Flaky Pie Crust
The pie experts from East Bay Pie Co share their tricks and techniques for making perfect, flaky pie crusts.
You Can Now Have Texas Barbecue Delivered
You Can Now Have Texas Barbecue Delivered
Iconic North Texas barbecue spot Hutchins BBQ is delivering its famous brisket and sausages nationwide.
A Meat Expert’s Guide to Show-Stopping Holiday Roasts
A Meat Expert’s Guide to Show-Stopping Holiday Roasts
Stemple Creek Ranch, an organic meat purveyor to Michelin-starred restaurants, tells The Manual their best techniques for cooking a whole roast.
Chef Scott Conant Shares Family Favorite Recipes
Chef Scott Conant Shares Family Favorite Recipes
Award-winning Chef Scott Conant is back with another cookbook, this time featuring a series of multicultural family favorites.
The Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
The Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
When properly sourced and brewed, Japanese matcha is one of the healthiest beverages in the world.
How to Make Michelin-Starred Thai Food From a Master Chef
How to Make Michelin-Starred Thai Food From a Master Chef
Learn how to make Michelin-starred Thai food from a master chef.
Best Paleo Recipes from ‘Nom Nom Paleo’ Authors
Best Paleo Recipes from ‘Nom Nom Paleo’ Authors
Michelle Tam & Henry Fong, the New York Times bestselling cookbook authors of Nom Nom Paleo are back with a new cookbook full of international Paleo recipes.
Two Sushi Chefs Discuss the Preparation of Omakase
Two Sushi Chefs Discuss the Preparation of Omakase
An expert, Michelin-starred guide to everything you need to know about Japanese sushi Omakase.