In this satirical journey through the chic lunch spots and outposts around Los Angeles circa the '90s, newly divorced Danielle Wiffard navigates a maze of romantic, sexual, and musical encounters with celebrities and socialites. Roving around L.A.—herself, a prominent "character" in the book—Danielle cavorts with a range of potential romantic interests, from a symphony maestro to a big-hatted country crooner, from a swaggering TV talk show host to a has-been teen idol and beyond. 

She seeks a new sense of self, purpose, and experiences a series of fleeting ecstasies and personal and natural disasters. Meanwhile, her lunchtime pals and a gaggle of gossips keep an eye on her and an eye on the garçon's hindquarters as together they refine the Art of Lunch.