For those who hanker for a touch of smoke in just about anything, we’ve provided the recipes for a sensational gathering. All food and drink have a smoky element in the mix. Cocktails benefit from sultry hits of mezcal and peaty scotches and outfits tone down in multi shades of gray—the softer, gentler black. What dish couldn’t be improved by a hint of smoke? The ambitious can smoke their own fish, cheeses, mayo, butter, what-have-you, the rest can find the best ingredients and incorporate a soulful feeling into every dish. Perhaps the desire for smoke goes back to our primal instincts. This issue gives you the tools to tap into those instincts and make your gathering smolder. Remember to inhale deeply.