Reddit reviews Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras - International Version (No Warranty)

Yes I do have a few recommendations! It just so happens that I had a go with my brother's 550d + 60mm Canon this weekend. The image I took can be found here. For more combinations of the 550d and the 60, my brother's photostream offers some more examples.

I have also heard really good reviews about the Canon 100mm but you need to be in a spending mood if you are going to venture there. In fact, a photo added to ITAP today uses this lens, see what you think.

Hope this helps!

When it comes to the close up and extremes you'll be looking for a macro lens. My goto on the job is the 100mm 2.8 L (the non-L lens is a pretty good place to start. I've actually got a used and abused one going, get in touch if you're interested). You might also want to consider the 50mm 1.8 (you can find a better price than that). It won't give you the super close ups but it will give you some real depth of field to start working with.

Lighting... that kit might be slight overkill with the backgrounds. Those lights also don't let you use new modifiers as you continue your journey. You may find you prefer the look from a softbox than an umbrella and you're kinda stuck with those. I would consider these if the price stays low...
Having said all that, it's important to start somewhere and that's not a bad place at all!

There aren't really any steps to follow to get into the business. The best advice I can give is to shoot! Keep shooting! Learn, ask, watch youtube videos. Start looking at the photos you like and try and work out how they were lit. Look into food styling.

When you're confident in what you can do, try going into a local restaurant and offer them a little shoot for free. Maybe offer them 1 photo and the option to buy the others if they like them. Work breeds work.
That's all the advice I can think of at the moment but you can message me if you have any questions!

edit: Links and bits