Wow, another totally awesome book. Greg read this one, as did Jeff. It's my first time reading the scintillating "foodie documentary" of this great chef written in 2000. I only heard of Bourdain about a year ago, not being a regular Food Network viewer. I missed his "Bourdain in Beirut" show, but want to see it. He's written two other books which I'd be interested in. This one's a classic. It's so humorous, nasty, juicy and fun to read. It's filled with unsavory mob-like characters who are actually real people, as this IS a true book, no novel here.
It's just soo entertaining. As the cover suggests, it delves into the "underbelly" of the restaurant business and especially the life of a chef. Bourdain writes his book as part autobiography, part documentary of his life as a 2-star chef working in Manhattan. Goodfellas meets Food Channel is how I classify this! We also learn about many of the best dining establishments in NYC. Simply a fun, crass, rude, raw read with plenty of foul language. My favorite chapter was 'A Day in the Life'; it was dizzying and frenetic, mindblowing, racing through time. Wore me out. I've never read Hunter Thomas, but from what I know about him, this is comparable. The best part is you don't have to have any knowledge whatsoever (i.e. myself for one) about cooking. Anyone would enjoy this. It's an "open your eyes", shocking account; a revelation, an in-your-face macho, not for the weak at heart or squeamish, prudish, naive type. Otherwise, you will be offended. If you like South Park humor, you'll like this. Bourdain is incredibly hilarious.
I think: shit, does this stuff actually really happen as he portrays it? And then I say, why yes, people are indeed rude, offensive, and impolite but also loyal, talented and dedicated. Bourdain is all these things and more. I find it miraculous that he's managed to stay married to one lady all these years, since his chef's career dominates most of his waking hours. He bags Emeril Lagasse, referring to him in not so subtle inuendos as the celebrity sell-out type of chef. If you haven't read Kitchen Confidential, you're in for a very good time. It reads fast and you will be laughing often.
Sorry Greg, but you have to agree that this book rates 5 stars.
