Restaurants are like kids. You hope you understand their innate gifts, and then you let them realize their aspirations.

Museums are like sports stadiums, hotels and hospitals: they are in the category of captive-audience dining.

I grew up in a reform Jewish family in St. Louis. Our idea of Judaism was no bar mitzvahs and a Christmas tree that had a skirt at the bottom embroidered with the names of my grandparents.

A great restaurant is one that just makes you feel like you're not sure whether you went out or you came home and confuses you. If it can do both of those things at the same time, you're hooked.

Short of hiring a new staff, consider giving subpar workers a chance to improve. Tell them why they're not measuring up and give them a set amount of time to make specific improvements.

Constant, gentle pressure is my preferred technique for leadership, guidance, and coaching.

It is sad that the more 'successful' a neighborhood becomes, the more it gradually takes on a recognizable, common look, as the same banks, drugstore chains and national brands move in.

Life is a series of waves to be embraced and overcome.

My dad gave me the gene to enjoy cooking, and to enjoy consuming good food and wine.

To be kind to others, be kind to yourself first.

Very few people have the nerve to grab their dreams. Most that you meet will be half-images or carbon copies of who they really want to be.

One should count each day a separate life.

Like every art form, there are jealousies and angers and competitiveness in magic. But there's camaraderie among magicians, whether you perform it for a living or you're an enthusiast.

I just like being around people, especially nice people, and there are a lot of nice girls on tour.

Use memories. Do not let memories use you.

All women seem by nature to be coquettes.

In Mexico, theater is very underground, so if youre a theater actor its very difficult to make a living. But its also a very beautiful pathway to knowledge and to an open education.

Absolutely determined to ensure that Microsoft complies fully with the 2004 anti-trust decision.

In some ways, America has grown up to be a masterpiece of self-concern.