Food is very representative of a city's culture. In order to really get to know a place and the people, you've got to eat the food.

I think all kids need snacks. Mine are fruit machines. I give them things like apple slices, berries and melon. Do I let them eat ice cream? Absolutely. But not every day.

Food that's beautiful to look at seems to taste better than food that isn't.

You go to a restaurant in the States and kids have these game boards at the table. You don't see that in Italy or Spain. It's not because they can't afford to buy them, it's because that's not what eating together as a family is about.

I spent a lot of time on farms when I was young. My uncle and my dad owned a big farm.

I had a fierce curiosity about this food thing.

I'm working harder than ever now, and I'm putting on my pants the same as I always have. I just get up every day and try to do a little better than the day before, and that is to run a great restaurant with great food, great wine, and great service. That's my philosophy.