Chillin With Todd English

By Joseph Luparello

Known for his charisma and signature Mediterranean cuisine, Todd English is one of the most decorated chefs in the world. His culinary journey began when he first entered the professional kitchen at age fifteen. Five years later, he went on to attend the Culinary Institute of America, later graduating in 1982 with honors.

 

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He continued to hone his craft with Jean Jacques Rachou at New York’s La Cote Basque and then relocated to Italy where he apprenticed at several well-established locations.

The move to Italy was a key point in Todd’s life. It gave him the ability to draw from his Italian heritage and ultimately develop a one-of-a-kind style and approach to cooking. Since then, he has amassed an incredible number of accolades. Not only has he received countless awards for his cooking skills, but he also established one of the best-known restaurant brands in the nation, published critically acclaimed cookbooks, and produced his own TV show for PBS.

The series was called Food Trip with Todd English and it debuted in 2007. In the show Todd can be seen exploring the globe, seeking out new local flavors and techniques. It earned him two James Beard Awards as well as an Emmy nomination.

English has also starred in the national public television series, Cooking Under Fire and The Food Network’s Opening Soon, and is a frequent guest on such shows as Top Chef, Iron Chef, The Today Show, Martha Stewart Living, Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Extra, Live with Kelly, Jimmy Kimmel Live among others.

Chilled had the pleasure of chatting with the legendary Chef about his favorite drink and places to dine.

 

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Tell us about the projects you are working on.

Right now, we’re working on opening The Pepper Club in Miami. I’m also working on a Greek restaurant, my own steakhouse. I’m also very interested in tapping into the Asian market.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

Sleep and think. The truth is, I don’t really know how to rest. I’ve been in this industry for years, and you’d think I’d learn to relax more. But with my experiences, learning about the world, tastes, flavors, and other cultures; I’d say I’m more hungry than tired.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I definitely love Japanese food, so anywhere I could get a good bottle of sake. I also travel a lot, and I like to taste different dishes. When in Tokyo, for instance, I’d find street vendors and just try anything. Taco trucks always call to me, and you can never go wrong with a slice of really good pizza. I also love dining at Casa Cipriani in New York and Delilah in Las Vegas.

 

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What types of dishes do you typically order?

When I’m at a Japanese restaurant, I always go for an amazing cut of ootoro sushi.

Any favorite bars?

The Pepper Club is very close to my heart. It’s named after my dog, Pepper, and it’s located in my namesake hotel, The English Hotel in Las Vegas.

What drinks do you order when out? Favorite drinks?

Sake or a dry Martini.

 

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Do you prepare drinks at home?

Not as much. I like to keep it simple when I’m at home. I usually just have a bottle of sake or red wine. I pop them open and drink. Easy.

Have you ever been a bartender?

Yes, but only in my own home. Does that count?

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