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For my final project in Fordham University's Book and Zine Design class, I designed and produced a cookbook inspired by Mercado Restaurant. This project combined editorial design, branding, and hands-on production, culminating in a beautifully crafted, hand-bound book that reflects the restaurant’s culinary philosophy and aesthetic.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

OBJECTIVE

Create a cookbook that encapsulates Mercado's warm, inviting atmosphere while maintaining a clean, modern design. The goal was to balance functionality and storytelling, ensuring the book was both visually compelling and practical for users.

MY ROLE

Editorial Design – Curated and formatted recipes using Adobe InDesign.
Brand Integration – Developed a cohesive visual identity aligning with Mercado’s ambiance.
Production & Binding – Personally printed and hand-bound the book to enhance craftsmanship.

DESIGN APPROACH

Typography & Layout – Used a modern, minimalist type system that complements the organic imagery.
Color Palette – Selected warm, earthy tones inspired by Mercado’s interior and dishes.
Imagery – Integrated high-quality, atmospheric photos to enhance storytelling and visual appeal.

PROCESS

Research & Inspiration – Studied Mercado’s branding, menu, and aesthetic to inform design choices.
Content Structuring – Organized recipes in a way that was intuitive and engaging for readers.
Design Execution – Developed layouts in Adobe InDesign, balancing text and visuals for readability.
Printing & Binding – Selected premium materials and hand-bound the book for a polished, artisanal finish.

OUTCOME

The completed cookbook successfully translates Mercado’s culinary experience into a tangible, interactive format, emphasizing both visual storytelling and functionality. This project reinforced my ability to combine print design, branding, and production techniques into a seamless, high-quality final product.