Well… more like a media invite to meet him, hear him speak, maybe get a book signed. But it always seems to be around the same time of year.

The other night I stopped by a local Whole Foods to see the well-coiffed Le Bernadin chef–and general food-world celebrity–promote the companion book and new season of Avec Eric. Too bad I was getting the flu and couldn’t stick around to say hello (although it was perfect that I could stock up on Wellness Formula, teas, pills, juice and chicken soup, which sort of worked).

The crowd of culinary students, foodists and fans were excited to have him there. They asked questions, and he told stories (i.e. he used to be a mean chef but kept losing his teams; now he’s not mean in the kitchen).  They got their books signed and photos taken. Sounds mundane, but I love seeing elated people meet their favorite chefs.