I've also learned that you can't be all things to all people. Whatever it is that you're successful at, that has to be the No. 1 goal.

I do know what my first meal in the next world would be Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, heavy on everything.

If you're humble and hardworking, opportunities will arise for you.

It only looks like I get to eat a lot of food on TV. I really just get the one bite and the crew and guests eat everything else.

My mom worked in restaurants for 60 years, and what I learned from her is a lot. But if I had to boil it down, take your work very seriously, but don't take yourself too seriously. Work harder than everyone else and never complain about it. Don't go to bed if you're not proud of the product of your day; stay awake until you are.

I have a fat head - I get freaked-out looking at pictures of me.

I've never been a huge sweets eater, and I've always loved a Mediterranean diet. We eat a lot of dark leafy greens, and a couple meals each week are meat-free. We enjoy eating a balanced diet.