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.

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

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.

I wonder if I love the communal act of eating so much because throughout my childhood, with four older brothers and a mom who worked in the restaurant business, I spent a lot of time fending for myself, eating alone - and recognizing how eating together made all the difference.

I think that you’ve got to make something that pleases you and hope that other people feel the same way.

I wanted to learn everything I could about what it takes to be a great chef. It was a turning point for me.

I drank more wine when I wasn't working as much, to be honest.