“...operational proof...it's all theory until you see for yourself whether or not something works.”

“But I was a pure romantic, and only operating with half my burners turned on.”

“It's so beautifully arranged on the plate - you know someone's fingers have been all over it.”

“Just like becoming an expert in wine–you learn by drinking it, the best you can afford–you learn about great food by finding the best there is, whether simply or luxurious. The you savor it, analyze it, and discuss it with your companions, and you compare it with other experiences.”

“We ate the lunch with painful politeness and avoided discussing its taste. I made sure not to apologize for it. This was a rule of mine. I don't believe in twisting yourself into knots of excuses and explanations over the food you make... Usually one's cooking is better than one thinks it is. And if the food is vile,...then the cook must simply grit her teeth and bear it with a smile- and learn from her mistakes.”

“You'll never know everything about anything, especially something you love.”

“Until I discovered cooking, I was never really interested in anything.”