Sam Sifton

Sam Sifton

Sam Sifton at Théâtre Corona

Sam Sifton is an American journalist and editor, known for his work with The New York Times. He has held various positions at the newspaper, including national editor, food editor, and restaurant critic. Sifton is also an accomplished author, having written several books on cooking and food culture.

Early Life and Education

Sam Sifton was born in Brooklyn, New York City. He grew up in a family with a strong appreciation for literature and journalism. His father, Charles Sifton, was a federal judge, and his mother, Elisabeth Sifton, was a prominent book editor. Sifton attended Harvard University, where he graduated with a degree in history.

Career

Early Career

Sifton began his career in journalism at The New York Press, where he worked as a writer and editor. He later joined The New York Times in 2001, initially working as a reporter on the Metro desk.

Restaurant Critic

In 2009, Sifton was appointed as the restaurant critic for The New York Times, succeeding Frank Bruni. During his tenure, he became known for his engaging and insightful reviews, which often included cultural and historical context. Sifton's writing style was both accessible and sophisticated, appealing to a wide audience of readers.

Food Editor

After serving as a restaurant critic, Sifton transitioned to the role of national editor. In 2011, he became the founding editor of the New York Times Cooking section, a digital platform dedicated to recipes and food journalism. Under his leadership, the section grew significantly, attracting a large and dedicated readership.

National Editor

Sifton served as the national editor of The New York Times from 2011 to 2013. In this role, he oversaw the newspaper's coverage of national news, guiding a team of reporters and editors in producing in-depth and impactful stories.

Publications

Sam Sifton is the author of several books, including Thanksgiving: How to Cook It Well and See You on Sunday: A Cookbook for Family and Friends. His writing often focuses on the cultural and social aspects of food, emphasizing the importance of meals as a means of bringing people together.

Personal Life

Sifton is married and has two children. He resides in Brooklyn, where he continues to explore the vibrant food scene of New York City. In addition to his work at The New York Times, Sifton is an active participant in various culinary and literary events.

Related Pages

• The New York Times
• Restaurant critic
• Food journalism
• Cooking