I used to write cookbooks. It was passion to try to bring healthy and fun recipes to people's homes. It was a way to bring my home to theirs.

It's easier being a judge than a competitor. As a judge, you don't have any risks. That makes it much more enjoyable.

Most seasonings are based on family tradition.

Young people want to be famous before they know how to cook, before they know how to treat people, before they know what hospitality means. I stayed in France for seven years and Austria for three, so before I was a chef anywhere I was already cooking for 10 years.

I love strong flavors too. Like I don't mind if it looks clean and clear and you know what you are eating if it has Italian, Chinese or Japanese flavor I love them all.

New Yorkers think they have everything, all the best art and music. But really L.A. is a better place.

When you have made as many mistakes as I have, then you can be as good as me.