I was a romantic, messy thinker. I was raised with very conservative beliefs, but that was a long time ago.

Just like becoming an expert in wine–you learn by drinking it, the best you can afford–you learn about great food by finding the best there is, whether simply or luxurious. The you savor it, analyze it, and discuss it with your companions, and you compare it with other experiences.

I always try to buy just what I need. You get ideas as to what's in season and what's best. I think if you have a preconceived idea before shopping, that makes it difficult. You have to have an open mind.

One of the important requirements for learning how to cook is that you also learn how to eat.

There are reasons, and then there are excuses.

The dinner hour is a sacred, happy time when everyone should be together and relaxed.

We ought to enjoy our food, we ought to take time and care and prepare it correctly, and we ought to have fun doing it and make it a communal event.