Must-See Moments: Anthony Bourdain Unfiltered!

Some writers wield their words like knives. Anthony Bourdain, however, ignited his.

Before becoming a cultural icon or a familiar face on television screens, Anthony Bourdain was first and foremost a writer. His prose was marked by a distinctive flair—humorous yet raw, unflinching in tackling narratives in the most unconventional places. His voice resonated with a raw swagger, coupled with self-awareness, showcasing an insatiable appetite for unique experiences, all while attuning to profound joys and lingering sorrows.

On this Bourdain Day, celebrated annually on June 25—his birthday and a tribute following his passing in 2018—we are offering a curated selection of his sharpest, wittiest, and most poignantly heartfelt writings at Salon. In the years since Bourdain’s departure, our team has revisited his work, delving into the magnetic charm he exuded, the depths of his empathy, and the profound void left in his absence. The collective reflections illuminate a man steadfastly in pursuit of new horizons and a world still yearning for his insights.

Bourdain, in His Own Words

Long before he stepped into the television spotlight or was hailed as a culinary guru, Anthony Bourdain was at his core, a writer: sharp-tongued, passionate, and utterly unafraid to venture wherever a narrative led him. Through his portrayal of the raucous chaos that initially lured him into the culinary world to his poignant observations on cities torn apart by conflict, Bourdain’s writing was a compelling testament to his obligatory storytelling prowess. Two Salon pieces embody this balance between the raucous and the reflective, showcasing both the range of his distinct voice and the profound depth of his perspectives.

Kitchengod

In the piece “Kitchen God,” Bourdain recounts the moment he unearthed his vocation—not through formal education or mentorship, but by spying on a sunburned pirate-chef engaged with a bride over a trash drum at a seaside fried seafood joint. Set in Provincetown during the vibrant ’70s, the anecdote follows a young Bourdain, who as an aimless teenager, encounters the seductive whirlwind of kitchen life: the clamor, the heat, the dialects spoken over sizzling plates, and the otherworldly mix of desire and rebellion.

Bourdain vividly described this chaotic allure: “The life of the cook was a life of adventure, looting, pillaging, and rock-and-rolling through life with a carefree disregard for all conventional morality. It looked pretty damn good to me on the other side of the line.” This quest for a calling is not neatly packaged; there’s no pristine chef’s hat or classical training. Instead, it’s the intoxicating thrill of being immersed in rawness, danger, and the art of culinary service.

Watching Beirut Die

Among Anthony Bourdain’s most sobering writings, “Watching Beirut Die” stands out as a piece stripped of bravado and infused with the weight of reality.

Arriving in Lebanon to film a food show, Bourdain unexpectedly found himself chronicling the stark realities of war. What began as an optimistic exploration—with joyous locals, rooftop cocktail parties, and local delicacies at Le Chef—quickly devolved into chaos as rocket fire and airstrikes ensued. Trapped within the confines of their hotel, Bourdain and his crew bore witness to the heartbreaking disintegration of a city, block by block. The narrative serves as both a dispatch and an elegy—a love letter to a Beirut that had only just begun to flourish, only to be thrust back into the annals of memory through devastation.

In his own words, he observed: “We watch the city we’d barely begun to know—and yet already started to love—destroyed, seemingly (from where we’re sitting) without sense or reason.”

Exploring Bourdain’s Legacy Through Salon’s Archive

Reflecting on Bourdain’s remarkable influence, our writers have curated their favorite pieces celebrating his life and work.

Anthony Bourdain Didn’t Say That (But We Wish He Did)

Every June, a misattributed quote purportedly from Bourdain circulates widely online, revolving around cream sauce, rare steak, and enjoying a pint at four in the afternoon. It’s tempting to believe in its authenticity, even finding deep personal meaning in its message. However, a closer examination reveals it was something crafted by a fan posthumously. This article delves into the cultural yearning for Bourdain’s voice and why, even if fabricated, the underlying desire resonates with many.

The Courage of Bourdain’s Conversations on Conflict

In a poignant essay, Senior Culture Critic Melanie McFarland revisits Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown” episode in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Examining its relevance a decade later, the piece argues that Bourdain’s candid approach—listening, eating, and observing—brought a level of insight to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that still feels sorely needed. In today’s media landscape, where discourse around such issues often becomes mired in complexity, Bourdain’s stance offered clarity and humanity.

Reflections from a Collaborator: Joel Rose on His Friendship with Bourdain

In intimate conversations with Senior Writer Chauncey DeVega, Joel Rose—Bourdain’s close friend and co-author of graphic novels like “Get Jiro!” and “Hungry Ghosts”—shares reflections on their years together. He highlights the graceful humility and generosity of Bourdain, revealing nuances behind his public persona. This tribute captures the deep bond they shared, underscoring Bourdain’s driving desire for personal and creative growth.

Yearning and Kitchen Work: A Reflection Through Bourdain’s Lens

Novelist and poet JoAnna Novak offers a reflective piece on her years in restaurant kitchens, exploring the emotional hunger that defined her journey. Inspired by Bourdain’s appreciation for simple yet soulful cuisine, Novak examines how cooking can both create meaning and serve as a core survival mechanism. This introspective essay highlights that even the smallest acts of culinary care can yield grace during life’s toughest challenges.

Bourdain’s Path from “A Cook’s Tour” to Cultural Ambassador

McFarland extends the discussion about Bourdain’s captivating persona, tracing his evolution from adventurous chef to revered cultural ambassador. The stories reflect on his adept ability to connect with diverse communities through the shared language of food, while reminding readers how Bourdain’s narrative illuminates our innate desire for connection and understanding—elements vital in bridging divides.

Ways to Celebrate Bourdain Day

Are you ready to embrace the spirit of Anthony Bourdain Day with an ounce of curiosity, remarkable cuisine, and bold adventures?

Your Guide to Bourdain Day 2025

If you’re searching for engaging ways to commemorate Bourdain Day, look no further! Explore his groundbreaking shows and iconic written work, along with inspiring ideas on how to channel his adventurous spirit in your own surroundings—whether it involves ordering an adventurous meal, engaging with strangers, or simply raising a glass in honor of curiosity and connection.

Five Comfort Food Recipes Inspired by Bourdain

Bring a taste of Anthony Bourdain into your kitchen! Try out five of his most comforting and reliable recipes—from hearty mushroom soup to a classic roasted chicken—and savor the bold flavors and soulful cooking that defined his culinary philosophy.