Bon Appétit Magazine: The Essential Guide for Journalists & Publicists

If you're looking to pitch, or collaborate with Bon Appétit here's everything that matters without the fluff.

Who's Running the Show

Jamila Robinson serves as Editor-in-Chief since 2023, steering the brand through its continued evolution post-restructuring. The test kitchen remains central to BA's content DNA, with their culinary team developing the recipes and techniques that define the brand. Digital leadership has seen transitions in recent years, so checking the current masthead for up-to-date contacts is essential before reaching out.

The Facts

Bon Appétit publishes 10 issues annually under Condé Nast, with combined issues typically appearing in January/February and November/December. The magazine reaches approximately 1.3 million readers through premium glossy pages that blend approachable recipes with lifestyle integration. 

How to Get Published

Don't pitch recipes. BA develops all recipes in-house through their test kitchen. What they want are essays and reported features exploring food culture, sustainability, and industry trends. 

Your best bet is expertise-driven content. If you're a chef, farmer, food historian, or journalist with specialized knowledge, that's your in. Print lead time runs four to six months, while digital moves considerably faster at two to four weeks. Always check the current masthead for specific editors by section rather than sending blanket pitches.

Format matters: send a concise email with a clear subject line, a two-to-three paragraph pitch, relevant clips, and why you're uniquely positioned to tell this story. Skip the flowery language and get to the point.

September Issue

The September Restaurant Issue tackles industry trends, chef profiles, and the year's most exciting openings. November's Thanksgiving issue is their biggest seller, offering comprehensive holiday coverage that readers return to year after year and their annual "Best New Restaurants in America" list carries serious industry weight.

Beyond the Pages

Bon Appétit Fest brings celebrity chefs and BA personalities to food festivals in various cities throughout the year. Their test kitchen video content has become a major digital revenue driver, with over six million YouTube subscribers consuming chef tutorials and behind-the-scenes series. This video ecosystem has fundamentally changed how the brand operates and generates income.

What Makes Them Different Now

Post-2020 restructuring fundamentally shifted BA's priorities toward diversity, inclusive food storytelling, and cultural authenticity. Their digital-first strategy maintains print as a premium brand extension rather than the primary product.

The bottom line: Bon Appétit wants smart food journalism with cultural awareness. They don't want your grandma's lasagna recipe. Know their voice, respect their lead times, and pitch what only you can offer.