The New York Times explores the unceasing mojo that keeps Wolfgang Puck fresh and still toiling. In the process, we get some pretty classic quotes from L.A. heroes about the culinary icon. Ludo Lefebvre compares Puck to the “Steven Spielberg…of restaurants,” inspired by the chef’s example to those who came after him to “never think that you’re good enough.” Elsewhere, Ruth Reichl recounts her favorite meal of 2011 as prepared by Spago, while Evan Kleiman spins wisdom on the restaurant’s firm footing in the changing face of the national dining scene. But the best word, by far, comes from Nancy Silverton, who shares the endearing nickname her former employer at Spago still addresses her with. “He called me up and said, ‘Mama’ — he always calls me Mama,” Silverton tells the paper, “‘Mama, how come you haven’t made a reservation to come to my restaurant?’”
