b'Chef MoonenunscriptedWHY DO YOU DO WHAT YOU DO?I love the connection I have with the world and peoplethe privilege of working withgreat products, understanding where they come from and how they are produced, andfinally turning them into a great dining experience. I preach to maintain a responsibilitythat comes along with this privilege. It does not get any more personal than that.WHAT IS YOUR FIRST FOOD MEMORY?As a young boy, I would vacation on Long Island with my family. I recall tasting my firstraw clam that I dug up myself on the beach in Sag Harbor. It changed my world, as I couldtaste the smell and flavor of the salty ocean in my mouth. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DISH TO EAT?TO PREPARE?I love to make soups at homeit is so grounding. I usually prepare much more than I canconsume myself, so I also enjoy sharing it with my friends. Most of the enjoyment of cookingcomes from turning other people on to what you discover and create. IS THERE A FOOD YOU HATE/DONT LIKE?Raw lobster and shrimp have a slimy texture that makes me gag. I cant wrap my mind aroundsea cucumbers for the same reason.IF YOU COULD HAVE ONLY ONE FOOD FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE,WHAT WOULD THAT FOOD BE?Porkbaconhamget the picture here? I also love a free-range chicken WHAT OR WHO INSPIRES YOU?Eating in ethnic sections of Las Vegas refreshes my interest in eating. I enjoy Chinatown especially always something new for me to try. It pushes the boundaries of my creative mind.'