The most interesting thing I've ever heard about myrself that isn't true is that I'm not a nice guy.

Spain has some of the richest culinary traditions and truly appreciates food that is simply prepared with top-notch ingredients.

I can't tell you enough about cinnamon. Cinnamon is an awesome spice to use and it goes great with something like apples in the morning or in a mixture of fruit or in your oatmeal or even in your cereal.

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

You have to be cautious of eating continuously the same thing. Beef comes to mind right away, and there's nothing wrong with beef, but you've got to do whatever you're doing in moderation. So try to break it up a little bit. Eat some fish or some shellfish at least a couple of times a week.

I moved to Louisiana to become the executive Chef at Commander's Place. And I must say I had some encouragement from friends such as Ella Brennan, the queen of the New Orleans's culinary set, and others. This was very flattering to a young man with a dream. I was only 26 years old.

If somebody has a chance to put my food in their mouth, that tells the story.