The Traveler

Issue date: 10/24/07 Section: Life & Style

Media Credit: Aaron Rhoades Anthony Bourdain, best-selling author, chef and host of the Emmy-nominated show "No Reservations," signs autographs at the Fayetteville Public Library Friday night.

Friday night proved to be eventful for fans of Anthony Bourdain, who showed that he performs productively not only in the kitchen, but outside of its confines as well. The doors of the Fayetteville Public Library opened early for VIP ticket holders who mingled and enjoyed hors d'oeuvres and wine provided by Theos.

Bourdain spoke to a sold out crowd, with his speech broadcasted via closed circuit television to a crowd of 200 in the library's community room.

A funny and engaging speaker, Bourdain regaled the audience with tales from his culinary adventures. It was Bourdain's first time in Fayetteville, having just arrived from the islands of Crete where he attended a ceremonial goat slaughtering party.

He went on to explain how he got into cooking as teenager because it allowed a misfit like him to be judged on his quality of food and not saying the right things. He told of long 14-hour days in the kitchen and said that a chef's life is not nearly as glamorous as portrayed on television. He said he actually sees his family a lot more now than he would being a full-time chef.

His favorite eating destination is Vietnam - he told stories about its culture and food, recalling one of the strangest things he had ever eaten, a still-beating heart of a king cobra," Bourdain said. "If you hear the words, 'this will make you strong,' it usually means snake."

The worst food he tasted was in Iceland, the dish was hooves and snouts marinated in lactic acid for six months.

The only thing he wouldn't eat: "Dog or cat," he said.

He spoke for approximately an hour answering questions from the audience at the end. Audience members ranged from local chefs and restaurant owners to students and fans of his show "No Reservations" on the Travel Channel.

Following his discussion, Bourdain signed books and met with the audience, during which Coffee from Arsaga's Espresso Cafe and desserts from La Masion des Tarts were served.

The event was sponsored by Glazers, DOXA, Theo's, Inn at Carnall Hall, Cox Communications and the Roberta Fulbright Society.

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