Why I Cook

1. Cooking as a Journey of Self-Discovery and Connection

The cycle whereby a seed becomes a plant and then ultimately a food has been magical to me since I watched it up close in my grandpa Mike’s driveway in early childhood.

Early fascination with food. Colicchio's memoir highlights how cooking is more than just a profession; it's a path to understanding oneself and connecting with the world. His early experiences, like watching his grandfather tend to his garden, sparked a lifelong fascination with the transformation of simple ingredients into nourishing meals. This connection to the source of food became a guiding principle in his culinary journey.

Finding solace and purpose. For Colicchio, cooking became a way to channel his energy and find a sense of purpose, especially during challenging times. The kitchen provided a space where he could focus, create, and express himself, offering a sense of calm and control amidst the chaos of life. This transformative power of cooking is a recurring theme throughout his story.

Food as a universal language. Colicchio emphasizes how food transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, bringing people together through shared experiences and traditions. Whether it's a simple family meal or a complex culinary creation, food has the power to foster connection, create memories, and celebrate the richness of human experience.

2. The Influence of Family and Heritage on Culinary Identity

Grandpa picked them, Grandma canned them, and we ate them in everything, all year long.

Family traditions and flavors. Colicchio's Italian heritage and family traditions played a significant role in shaping his culinary identity. Growing up in a close-knit Italian-American community, he was immersed in the flavors, aromas, and rituals of his ancestors, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for simple, honest food.

Grandparents as culinary mentors. His grandparents, especially his grandfather Mike, were instrumental in teaching him about gardening, cooking, and the importance of respecting ingredients. These early lessons formed the foundation of his culinary philosophy and influenced his approach to food throughout his career.

Reinterpreting the classics. While honoring his family's culinary traditions, Colicchio also sought to reinterpret them in his own way, blending classic techniques with modern sensibilities. This fusion of old and new allowed him to create dishes that were both familiar and innovative, reflecting his unique perspective as a chef.

3. Finding Purpose and Mastery in the Kitchen

The snack shack was hot, smoky, smelly, greasy, and cramped, and I loved it.

Early experiences in the kitchen. Colicchio's first foray into the culinary world was at a snack shack, where he discovered a sense of mastery and competence that had eluded him in other areas of his life. This experience ignited his passion for cooking and set him on a path toward a professional culinary career.

The allure of the line. Working on the line in a busy restaurant kitchen provided Colicchio with a sense of focus and purpose that he found both challenging and rewarding. The fast-paced environment, the camaraderie among the cooks, and the satisfaction of creating delicious food fueled his ambition and drove him to excel.

From chaos to control. Colicchio's journey from a restless and unfocused teenager to a disciplined and accomplished chef demonstrates the transformative power of finding one's passion. Cooking provided him with a sense of structure, purpose, and mastery that helped him overcome his personal challenges and achieve his full potential.

4. The Importance of Mentorship and Collaboration

Techniques matter more than recipes.

Learning from the masters. Colicchio emphasizes the importance of mentorship in the culinary world, highlighting the influence of chefs like Jacques Pépin, André Daguin, and Thomas Keller on his own development. These mentors provided him with invaluable knowledge, guidance, and inspiration, shaping his culinary philosophy and approach to cooking.

Collaboration and teamwork. The restaurant kitchen is a collaborative environment, and Colicchio stresses the importance of teamwork, communication, and mutual respect among cooks. He learned to value the contributions of every member of the team, from the dishwasher to the sous chef, recognizing that everyone plays a vital role in creating a successful dining experience.

Sharing knowledge and inspiring others. As he progressed in his career, Colicchio embraced the role of mentor, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring chefs. He understood the importance of giving back to the culinary community and helping to cultivate the next generation of talent.

5. Navigating the Complexities of the Restaurant Industry

Kitchens then were run by a generation of people who’d come up in the 1960s and ’70s, for whom smoking a joint at work was what drinking a cup of coffee is today.

The realities of kitchen culture. Colicchio provides an unvarnished look at the realities of the restaurant industry, including the long hours, the intense pressure, and the prevalence of substance abuse. He acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices required to succeed in this demanding profession.

The business side of restaurants. Beyond the creative aspects of cooking, Colicchio also delves into the business side of the restaurant industry, discussing the financial challenges, the importance of management, and the complexities of partnerships. He learned firsthand that running a successful restaurant requires both culinary skill and business acumen.

Ethical considerations. Colicchio also touches on the ethical considerations that chefs face, such as sourcing sustainable ingredients, treating employees fairly, and creating a positive work environment. He emphasizes the importance of making responsible choices and using his platform to advocate for change.

6. The Pursuit of Authenticity and Simplicity in Food

I was learning and creating again, and excited about it, and while Lori would not describe self-awareness as my crowning strength, I was starting to realize just how important it was that I keep growing, both for the health of my business and for my own personal evolution.

Rejecting artifice and embracing simplicity. As his career progressed, Colicchio developed a growing appreciation for simple, honest food that celebrates the natural flavors of ingredients. He sought to strip away unnecessary embellishments and focus on the essence of each dish.

Sourcing the best ingredients. Colicchio emphasizes the importance of sourcing high-quality, seasonal ingredients from local farmers and producers. He believed that the best food starts with the best ingredients, and he was willing to go to great lengths to find them.

Respecting the ingredients. Colicchio's culinary philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for ingredients and a desire to showcase their natural beauty and flavor. He believed that the role of the chef is to enhance, not to mask, the inherent qualities of the food.

7. Balancing Personal Life with Professional Demands

I don’t know if cooking can be virtuous, but in this sinful city, I’m sure that Craft is on the side of the angels.

The challenges of work-life balance. Colicchio candidly discusses the challenges of balancing his demanding career with his personal life, including his relationships, his family, and his own well-being. He acknowledges the sacrifices he made and the toll that the restaurant industry can take on personal relationships.

The importance of family. Despite the demands of his career, Colicchio emphasizes the importance of family and the joy he finds in being a father. He made an effort to be present in his children's lives, even amidst the chaos of running multiple restaurants.

Finding time for self-care. Colicchio also recognizes the importance of self-care and finding time for activities that nourish his mind, body, and soul. Whether it's fishing, reading, or spending time in nature, he understands the need to recharge and maintain his own well-being.

8. The Evolution of a Chef's Perspective on Food and Life

I was now at the helm of a three-star restaurant that was attracting diners from around the world.

From ambition to authenticity. Colicchio's journey as a chef is marked by a constant evolution of his perspective on food and life. He moved from a focus on ambition and accolades to a deeper understanding of the importance of authenticity, simplicity, and connection.

Learning from mistakes. Colicchio is not afraid to admit his mistakes and share the lessons he has learned along the way. He acknowledges his shortcomings and uses them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.

Finding meaning beyond the kitchen. As he matured, Colicchio's interests expanded beyond the kitchen, encompassing a wider range of social and political issues. He used his platform to advocate for causes he believed in, such as sustainable agriculture, food security, and social justice.

9. Giving Back and Advocating for Change

I thought Top Chef might have a hand in changing that.

Using his platform for good. Colicchio recognizes the power of his platform and uses it to advocate for positive change in the food system and beyond. He speaks out on issues such as food waste, hunger, and the importance of supporting local farmers.

Supporting sustainable practices. Colicchio is a strong advocate for sustainable agriculture and responsible sourcing. He believes that chefs have a responsibility to make informed choices that protect the environment and support ethical farming practices.

Inspiring others to get involved. Colicchio hopes to inspire others to get involved in creating a more just and sustainable food system. He encourages consumers to make conscious choices about what they eat and to support businesses that share their values.

10. Embracing the Unexpected Twists and Turns of a Culinary Career

I had always prided myself on being both a chef and a businessman.

The unpredictable nature of the restaurant industry. Colicchio's career has been marked by unexpected twists and turns, from sudden job offers to unforeseen challenges. He learned to embrace the unpredictable nature of the restaurant industry and to adapt to changing circumstances.

The importance of resilience. Colicchio's story is a testament to the importance of resilience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. He faced numerous obstacles throughout his career, but he never gave up on his passion for cooking.

Finding joy in the journey. Ultimately, Colicchio's memoir is a celebration of the joy and fulfillment that can be found in a life dedicated to food. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, he remains deeply grateful for the opportunities he has had and the people he has met along the way.

Last updated: April 10, 2025