Thirty-five years ago, being a cook was the same as being a used-car salesman.

I tell everybody the same thing: You have to make every dish so when you taste it, you should remember it when you go home.

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

I really love Paris. It's my favorite city.

When you meet someone, ask about what hobby they have, not what they do. People always ask me about cooking, but I prefer to talk about tennis or boxing.

I won't quit my day job. I like restaurants. I don't do a lot of television, either, even though people come to me with projects all the time. I have to spend time in the kitchen.

Stay away from iodized table salt. It's just bad and doesn't help food taste good.