Anthony Bourdain: An Honorary Article

Anthony Bourdain, a talented chef, intimate storyteller and world-renowned traveller, has died at age 61.

Bourdain was in France filming the newest season of his hit television series, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, at the time of his passing by suicide, as confirmed by CNN.

We were extremely saddened to hear of this news at Trouvaille, and want to recognize this true travel visionary for his array of achievements.

Although many may know Bourdain through his work as a chef, his talents were not solely limited to food, but spanned across several industries including travel, publishing and media.

After graduating from the highly esteemed, Culinary Institute of America in 1978, Bourdain began his career running the kitchens of several New York City restaurants, becoming the executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles in 1998.

Combining his culinary talent with his storytelling ability, The New Yorker published his now famously scathing article, “Don’t Eat Before Reading This” in 1999, detailing the restaurant business with particular emphasis on the kitchen. The success of this article led to other authoring opportunities. In 2000, Bourdain released his first book, “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly,” expanding on his previously detailed restaurant experiences.

Yet, to only recognize Bourdain as a talented chef and honest storyteller would be a significant understatement.

Bringing his love for travel and people into his “palate” of talents, Bourdain released another book in connection to his first hit television show with the Food Network, A Cook’s Tour. The book, “A Cook’s Tour: Global Adventures in Extreme Cuisines,” gave the public a glimpse into the unique, worldly potential of Bourdain.

Making his way into the television scene, Bourdain moved on from his position with the Food Network, and began a new television series with the Travel Channel called, Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, in 2005. The show was a massive hit, running for nine seasons and winning two Emmy Awards for cinematography.

In 2013, after a year of television appearances and writing, Bourdain returned to series television with CNN’s Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, bringing a very honest and real perspective to global dining. Yet again, the show was a hit, winning four Emmy’s for the category of Outstanding Informational Series or Special.

In the same year, Bourdain was honoured with the Peabody Award, recognizing his excellence in the media industry.

Bourdain’s immense contribution to the food and travel industries was profound. He brought unique and intimate travel experiences into the homes of the general public, presenting the world with unparalleled global perspectives that average people utilized to explore new and different eating destinations, such as unrated cafes, restaurants and rustic markets.

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully you leave something good behind,” said Bourdain.

His wisdom, openness and ability to connect with people through food made him a truly authentic talent that will be greatly missed.

For more information on Anthony Bourdain’s life and death, click here.

 

 

Image: Parts Unknown