At the turn of the twentieth century, Louisa Leyton applies for a post as a cook under Monsieur Alex, a leading chef, in a fashionable house. She proves an apt pupil and successfully deputizes for him at a dinner at which an important personage is present.

Louisa's success as a cook has brought her to the notice of the Prince of Wales and of society. Lord Henry Norton's butler, Augustus Trotter, is also very attracted to her and Louisa is approached from all quarters by potential suitors.

Queen Victoria dies and Edward VII becomes King. Louisa's life changes its pattern. She is much in demand as a society cook and builds up a flourishing business. Augustus is not so lucky and she looks around for a means of getting him employment.

Louisa has thrown her husband, Augustus, and his overbearing sister out of the Bentinck and is determined to settle the hotel's enormous debts without help from anyone.

By the spring of 1902, Louisa's hotel has become the toast of London and she herself is the vital spark which fires the heart of society. Her food is exquisite, her wine superb, and her personality can be matched by none. But can this state of affairs last forever?

The summer of 1904 sees the Bentinck full of visitors. Louisa is delighted with her first rich American guest. She is less delighted when she finds that the three parties are becoming involved with each other in a way that borders on the criminal.