I have no formal culinary training, right.

Its not about passion. Passion is something that we tend to overemphasize, that we certainly place too much importance on. Passion ebbs and flows. To me, it's about desire. If you have constant, unwavering desire to be a cook, then u'll be a great cook.

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

Some of the recipes in the book have evolved for us. Many haven't.

I didnt want to be encumbered by what anyone elses abilities were, their equipment or environment or their ability to get certain products.

When I go out to eat, it's usually something moderate in style.

Good food is a good trend.