Food52 Names Lidey Heuck as New Editor-in-Chief, Ushering in a Fresh Era
On August 19, 2026, Food52, the influential food and lifestyle brand, made a significant announcement regarding its leadership. The company revealed that Lidey Heuck, a celebrated cookbook author and recipe developer, has been named Editor-in-Chief. This vital appointment represents a strategic move to elevate Food52's editorial mission and further cultivate its loyal community of home cooks.
Lidey Heuck, known for her engaging personality and authentic cooking style, steps into this vital role with comprehensive experience in the culinary world. Previously, she has notably served as the Editor-in-Residence at America's Test Kitchen, where her contributions included the creation of delectable recipes and the production of appealing social media content. She is also a recognized figure on PBS's 'Cook's Country' and the host of 'In the Test Kitchen,' a cooking video podcast available on Netflix, further highlighting her influence in the food media space.
Heuck's resume is impressive, extending beyond television as she has authored the acclaimed book "Cooking in Real Life," which gained recognition as a national bestseller and was shortlisted as one of Amazon's Best Cookbooks of 2024. Her dedication to home cooking has resonated with countless audiences as she consistently emphasizes approachable and delightful recipes. Additionally, as a contributor to New York Times Cooking, Heuck has shared over a hundred five-star recipes, establishing her further as a trusted voice in the culinary world.
Food52 co-founder Amanda Hesser expressed her enthusiasm about Heuck’s arrival, noting the combination of her professional expertise and genuine love for home cooking will be an invaluable asset. Hesser believes that Heuck’s vision will greatly contribute to the company’s ongoing journey, helping it maintain its relevance and appeal in the ever-evolving culinary landscape.
In her new position, Lidey Heuck will work closely with Clifford Endo, the Senior Vice President of Content at Food52, to refine and expand the brand's editorial direction. Together, they will create innovative recipes and multimedia programs designed to inspire and resonate with today’s home cooks. This collaboration is expected to provide fresh and exciting content while strengthening Food52’s commitment to encouraging confidence in the kitchen.
Heuck shares a personal connection with Food52, expressing her admiration for the brand as a premier destination for culinary inspiration and thoughtful storytelling. "I'm honored to join this talented team and help shape the brand's next chapter," she stated, reflecting her enthusiasm for being part of an organization that has profoundly impacted culinary practices and fostered community engagement among dedicated home cooks.
Looking ahead, Heuck’s leadership is poised to introduce a new wave of creativity into Food52's offerings. Her goals include broadening the scope of editorial content through innovative storytelling methods and community-centric experiences, thereby reinforcing the essence of what Food52 stands for. Under her guidance, the brand aims to cater to the evolving needs and interests of home cooks who seek to find joy and inspiration in everyday cooking.
Since its founding in 2009 by Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs, Food52 has maintained a vibrant community passionate about food and thoughtful design. Today, the platform not only remains a trusted source of cooking advice but also has expanded its influence into lifestyle inspiration, cultivating a community that thrives on creativity and quality ingredients. In early 2026, Food52 joined the Culinary Media Group, a subsidiary of Marquee Brands LLC, alongside America’s Test Kitchen, further signaling its growing prominence within the food media landscape.
In summary, with Lidey Heuck’s appointment, Food52 is set to continue its journey as a beloved hub for culinary enthusiasts, committed to making everyday cooking a joyful and rewarding experience for everyone. As Heuck takes the helm, all eyes will be on the exciting transformations that lie ahead for this innovative brand.