This is the excellent, if not seedy, autobiography of Anthony Bourdain. This is the stuff that happened before all those TV shows were ever a dream. Although parts of this book might make you a little squeamish, or even make you blush: What do you expect from a former heroin addict slogging through stints in every other restaurant in New York City? What did I learn? Food service is disgusting. (I actually already knew that after my first job – as a dishwasher.) And, I learned to especially stay away from restaurants with dirty bathrooms.

One of my favorite parts is Bourdain’s advice to those wanting to be a chef. His list:

“Be fully committed.”
“Learn Spanish!”
“Don’t steal.”
“Always be on time.”
“Never make excuses or blame others.”
“Never call in sick.”
“Lazy, sloppy and slow are bad.”
“Be prepared to witness every variety of human folly and injustice.”
“Assume the worst.”
“Try not to lie.”
“Avoid restaurants where the owner’s name is over the door.”
“Think about that resume!”
“Read!”
“Have a sense of humor about things.”

Buy this book.