I wanted to write about what we were doing at the French Laundry, the recipes and the stories.

Even the most astute chefs seek out the assistance of Celine Labaune, owner of Gourmet Attitude, because they know they can rely on her keen senses and deep understanding of the truffle trade.

It wasn't about mechanics; it was about a feeling, wanting to give someone something, which in turn was really gratifying. That really resonated for me.

We rely on our purveyors to tell us what's available and what's good.

We go through our careers and things happen to us. Those experiences made me what I am.

I don't think you could have a 7 with a manual. But I can't see having a BMW sports sedan without a manual.

The law of diminishing returns is something I really believe in.