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

For me, I don't expect to have a really amazing meal each time I dine out. Having a good meal with your loved ones - that's what makes the experience.

A chef is a mixture maybe of artistry and craft. You have to learn the craft really to get there.

Omelets are about technique. Now, different people make it different ways, but, if you're a chef in Europe, an omelet has to be cooked on the outside, with just a simmer of color, and the inside has to be soft. It should be cooked like a steak - medium rare.

There is no value with just one restaurant or with one person. The brand has to be bigger than the person.

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.

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