I love the simplicity, the ingredients, the culture, the history and the seasonality of Italian cuisine. In Italy people do not travel. They cook the way grandma did, using fresh ingredients and what is available in season.

There are so many things that you think will look cool but then you look like an idiot!

I always use my 'Holy Trinity' which is salt, olive oil and bacon. My motto is, 'bacon always makes it better.' I try to use bacon and pork products whenever it can.

Organizing ahead of time makes the work more enjoyable.

Taste as you go. When you taste the food throughout the cooking process you can make adjustments as you go.

I started in the restaurant business at the age of 19 as a waitress. I loved the atmosphere and the camaraderie of the restaurant business. I loved not having to go to an office. I loved making people happy.

I think people need more to do in their life if my hair pisses them off.