Tom Colicchio Opens Up About His Journey in New Cookbook-Memoir ‘Why I Cook’

Celebrated chef, restaurateur, and TV cooking judge Tom Colicchio has recently released a new cookbook-memoir titled “Why I Cook,” which delves into his personal and professional journey. In an interview with “CBS Mornings” co-host Tony Dokoupil, Colicchio shared insights into his life, from his humble beginnings in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to his rise in the culinary world of New York and Las Vegas.

Colicchio, who grew up in a working-class Italian family, recounts the significant role that family meals played in his early life. Sharing a bedroom with two brothers, he experienced the warmth and chaos of big, boisterous family gatherings, which laid the foundation for his future in the culinary arts.

The memoir also touches on Colicchio’s struggles, including his battle with drug abuse. He reflects on how the intense environment of a kitchen helped him find his identity and overcome personal challenges. Colicchio’s journey is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of cooking.

As a renowned figure in the culinary world, Colicchio has made a name for himself not only through his restaurants but also through his role as a judge on the popular TV show “Top Chef.” “Why I Cook” offers readers a deeper look into the life and experiences of this culinary icon, blending recipes with personal anecdotes and reflections).