(12)Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain

Like the rest of the world, I was saddened to learn of Anthony Bourdain's death last year.  Mostly because anytime I learn of a suicide, I am saddened.  I knew that he was a famous chef and had written some popular books, but that was all I knew of him.  Then as reactions started to flood social media, I thought "This guy seemed to have been special" and I bought Kitchen Confidential.

I have never worked in a restaurant (except for six months during college when I did a stint at McDonald's) and have never experienced a kitchen in the kind of restaurant you go to for special occasions.  However, one of my brothers has been in kitchens most of his career. So I was absolutely riveted by what Anthony Bourdain had to say.  His descriptions and observations gave me such insight into my brother  and why he continues to work in kitchens.

"The job requires character - and endurance.  A good line cook never shows up late, never calls in sick, and works through pain and injury."

My brother is one of the most good-natured, fun-loving people you will ever meet.  And he is one of the hardest workers you will ever meet.  This description is completely accurate. 


Anthony Bourdain also gives advice.  Like the important tools to have in a kitchen.  And to never use metal on a non-stick pan (my husband has been saying this for years).  And to always avoid the hollandaise sauce. (No worries there).  And never order the fish on a Monday.  There are other pieces of advice, but mostly the book gives you a look into what happens in the kitchen of a nice restaurant.  From his observations, it is a loud, crass, and at times dangerous, place to work.  But if you have a love for the lifestyle, then you can't help it and will never work anywhere else.

Bottom Line - I get it now.  I get the magnetism of Anthony Bourdain.  I get the desire to want to be in his orbit.  I get the need to read or watch anything with this man.  If his cooking was a fraction as good as his writing, then he deserved every accolade ever received.   I now understand why so many mourned his passing.   He was a genius and his loss must still be profoundly felt by those who knew and loved him.

Details: 

• Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
• On Instagram
• Pages: 352
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication Date: 1/9/2007
• Buy it Here!