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

I think many cooks are afraid of undercooked meats. A good thermometer is a cook's best friend.

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'm pretty actively involved with the military because I think they're incredible human beings. If I can give back to them for what they're doing for us, it's a good thing. And I think to have happy soldiers, you need to feed them well.

What I go for in my cooking is sinful, bold and real.

I like to keep things simple. It's really about the wine, food and the beach view. Nothing can beat that.

I've been very fortunate, because I've cooked for a lot of actors and actresses and musicians. I've cooked for presidents and I've been to the White House.