You hit a certain age and - especially because of TV - the young cooks coming up say, 'You're a sellout, because you're doing something other than what you should be doing.' 'Top Chef' is a double-edged sword for me: There's a whole group of people who will not come to the restaurants because they assume I'm not in them anymore, all I do is TV.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker reflects on the challenges and criticisms they face as an older chef in the culinary industry. They point out how television has created a perception that they have "sold out" by expanding their work beyond the traditional restaurant setting. "Top Chef" is acknowledged as both a blessing and a curse as it brings visibility but also leads some potential customers to assume they are no longer actively involved in their restaurants. The quote highlights the struggle faced by experienced chefs who navigate the changing landscape of culinary fame and its impact on their professional image.

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