In the end, your creativity -- perhaps even your outrageousness -- will determine the final result.

Take risks and you'll get the payoffs. Learn from your mistakes until you succeed.

Don't underestimate the importance of having enough room to work. Grilling is much more relaxing when you are not trying to juggle a whole collection of plates and bowls as you do it. If your grill doesn't have enough workspace - and they almost never do - set up a table right next to your grill.

One thing you don't want to do as a host is be running around all evening. Do as much as you can ahead of time, so all you have to do is grill the main ingredients.

I think a lot of times people design restaurants with flash in mind. I think you should design restaurants with function in mind. Make sure it's functional and works with what you're trying to accomplish. Design can come later.

I'd love to visit Thailand just for the street food and the energy of a city like Bangkok.

Grilling outside with my parents at the Jersey shore. We would grill lobster and corn in the summer.