Book Review: The Chef Says: Quotes, Quips and Words of Wisdom

Chefs are some of the most quotable people on the planet. Working in the high-heat, high-drama world of kitchens gives them a lot to talk about. Quotes from chefs tend to be brutally honest, surprising and most of all, fun to read.

Flip open The Chef Says to any page, and you’ll learn a little more about what it means to serve food with passion. Quotes range from the poignant/funny “My father cried when I said I wanted to be a chef.” (Michael Symon) to the surprising: “I learned to cook to get away from recipes." (Tom Colicchio) to the heartfelt: “I didn’t have a strong sense of belonging in the world, but I found that in the kitchen.” (Richard Blais).

The culinarians featured in the book form a conversation of sorts, held over the hustle and bustle of a busy line. Chefs' wit, wisdom and quotes about the perfect tomato or adding more butter make this book a satisfying read.