Discovering Robert Capon's perfect Capon on Cooking at my favorite bookstore years ago was like striking gold. His slightly outdated wit greets you like the scent of a warm sweater retrieved from storage for a cold winter. It is goofy, wise, and complimented our Italian evening with aplomb.
The Morning After: Script
James Beard provides some of the best kitchen commentary in his infamous Menus for Entertaining. He writes delightfully about changing appetites, etiquette, and servants. Yes, he is inappropriate and outdated and it's glorious. Here's his introduction to a section on breakfast menus.