by Karen Harrell
Originally posted March 2008
Lucy Buffett, like many people, had a book in her head for many years.
But, finding the time to put words on paper was tough for the busy restaurateur to find.
“I finally got down to business and made it a goal to complete the book by the end of the year,” said Buffett, sister of music icon Jimmy Buffett and owner of the enormously popular “Lulu’s” restaurant in Gulf Shores, Ala. “I published it myself. I figured if I couldn’t find places to distribute it, I would sell it myself in our gift shop.”
The result of Buffett’s labor of love is: “Crazy Sista Cooking – Cuisine and Conversation with Lucy Anne Buffett.”

200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL

She has had no trouble finding distribution outlets for her new cookbook. It is marketed through major online outlets such as Amazon.com, but also in selected major bookstores. She will be the guest of honor at a book signing event during the Fairhope, Ala., “First Friday Artwalk” from 6-8 p.m. March 7 at Page and Palette bookstore.
The popularity of her first book signing during the restaurant’s recent Mardi Gras anniversary party caught her by surprise. Some people – including many Snowbirds – waited an hour or more to have her sign a copy.
“People would say thank you for autographing the book,” she said. “I said that I’m actually glad people want to buy the book.”
The cookbook includes recipes from many of the restaurant’s most popular dishes along with family stories told in Buffett’s inimitable style.
The Snowbirds have become a part of Lulu’s winter regulars. Several local clubs host regular breakfast meetings there and the open-air atmosphere lures many back for an additional meal.
“The Snowbird business has helped our business not feel so seasonal,” Buffett said.
The process of writing a book is something many people don’t expect. It’s tough.
“It was so torturous that I said I’m never writing another book. But I’m already starting my second one.”