Anthony Bourdain Remembered

Anthony Bourdain was a treasure and was a welcome relief to the shiny cook show host. His Kitchen Confidential was essential reading for anyone starting in food service. In this gig economy, most fellow college grads will have at least brushed with food service. Tony’s experience helped me figure things out, learn to cook a mean burger, and cultivated a curiosity in food.

Anthony Bourdain Remembered captures Tony’s wit and humor, grim and raw. Remembered is great for any fan to commemorate someone who inspired them. With photos of Tony and some of his writing, you can get greater insight into a wonderful, complicated man.

Tony inspired me to eat brain on the streets of Mumbai. I was studying abroad and as part of my prep, I watched his show on Mumbai. I figured if he survived, so could I. A few friends and I went, ate, and reveled. Tony had steered us right. Not tasty, not more attuned to the culture. Tourists through and through. Unflinching, like Tony.

I went to his restaurant, Brasserie Les Halles, on my first big boy business trip to New York. He wasn’t cooking, but it was a superb steak frites for one. I’m a fan and Remembered made me nostalgic for Tony. I would say bittersweet, but his countless trips, words, and thoughts are etched. His legacy will continue.

Thanks to Anthony Bourdain Remembered, some of the best of Tony will survive. Remembered will move you to rewatch some Parts Unknown to hear the voice and wit of this cherished man.