Amanda Pilar Smith, above, an author of ''Paris in a Basket'' (Konemann, 2000), a survey of Parisian markets, has started a catering company, Good Food in a Basket.

She is preparing picnic sacks that can be ordered two days in advance for the New York Philharmonic concerts in Central Park. Her three menus offer herb-crusted filet mignon, roast tarragon chicken or citrus-marinated grilled salmon, with salads, dessert, fruit, snacks, bottled water, hibiscus iced tea and utensils. All that's missing is the blanket. A children's menu offers chicken fingers.

Each bright Mexican-made sack holds two to eight meals ($28 each), with a minimum of two meals to an order. Orders may be made from www.goodfoodinabasket.com. Pick up is from Ms. Smith's trucks at Columbus Avenue and 85th Street, and Madison Avenue and 80th Stree