bourdain love

I'll admit it. I'm an Anthony Bourdain groupie. I can safely say that I've probably watched most of the 100+ episodes of his Travel channel show, "No Reservations." I've traveled with him to Maine, Rome, Seoul, Tokyo, Vietnam & to varying far flung cities across the world.

I just finished reading his companion book to the one season travel show that he did with Food Network before he switched over to the Travel Channel called, "A Cook's Tour." I have of course read his inaugural book, "No Reservations" about his foray into the restaurant industry & the book that put him on the map so to speak which also happens to be the title of his ubiquitous travel show. I have also just received a spanking brand new copy of his latest book, "Medium Raw" which according to critics' reviews, promises to deliver more of the Anthony Bourdain I so love. Grossly sarcastic, bitter, biting, & hilarious views on the culinary world & really life in general ? I can't wait to start reading.

The primary reason for my love for Anthony Bourdain? It definitely isn't because of his culinary abilities because lets face it at this point in his career he's not so much as a chef as he is a celebrity & author. Although he is quite a charmer isn't because of his good looks because I do think that Chef Eric Ripert has him beat in that category. My love for Anthony Bourdain really comes down to his ability to put together words, phrases, & sentences that really becomes the most beautiful commentary on life, travel, relationships, & food. He has this magical ability to so poignantly convey words that perfectly encapsulate the moment & experience that we, the reader or viewer, can only minimally experience. Likewise he doesn't mince his words when frankly & honestly speaking about people, food, & situations that he finds discomforting & egregious.

I'll end with a quote from the man himself, Anthony Bourdain.

"Vegetarians, and their Hezbollah-like splinter-faction, the vegans, are a persistent irritation to any chef worth a damn. Oh, I'll accommodate them, I'll rummage around for something to feed them, for a "vegetarian plate," if called on to do so. Fourteen dollars for a few slices of grilled eggplant & zucchini suits my food cost fine."

this girl is hilarious !!! from his trip to the hudson valley which featured gorgeous scenery & the best looking steak that i have ever seen.

from the rome episode. never have i wanted to eat carbonara or any sort of pasta dish really more than i did when watching this episode.