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Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat
"...raw, humble, and darkly funny."-Chef Jacques Pepin
"Honest. Eye-opening. Harrowing. Brilliant." -Neal Katyal, former acting solicitor general of the United States
"...a framework for living that applies equally to the pro kitchen, the boardroom, and the family table." -Gail Simmons, food expert, TV host and author of Bringing It Home
Culinary A Journey Through the Heat is about exposing the dysfunction of an industry through the eyes of a highly decorated chef who, through hard-won experience, resilience and grief, soul searching and moments of reckoning, finds a healthier way forward, not just for himself but for the restaurant business as a whole. Travel with Chef Keane as his passion for hard work and cooking is ignited as a young kid growing up in Dearborn, Michigan. Cheer for him as he follows his dream to the gritty but seductive streets and kitchens of New York City and realizes his vocation. Empathize with him as he encounters and confronts bullies and egos hell-bent on destroying the dream. And root for him as he charges forth with a revolutionary new approach and strives to create an unparalleled magical journey at Cyrus for his guests and team, one based on style and substance with a conscience and connection.
"Honest. Eye-opening. Harrowing. Brilliant." -Neal Katyal, former acting solicitor general of the United States
"...a framework for living that applies equally to the pro kitchen, the boardroom, and the family table." -Gail Simmons, food expert, TV host and author of Bringing It Home
Culinary A Journey Through the Heat is about exposing the dysfunction of an industry through the eyes of a highly decorated chef who, through hard-won experience, resilience and grief, soul searching and moments of reckoning, finds a healthier way forward, not just for himself but for the restaurant business as a whole. Travel with Chef Keane as his passion for hard work and cooking is ignited as a young kid growing up in Dearborn, Michigan. Cheer for him as he follows his dream to the gritty but seductive streets and kitchens of New York City and realizes his vocation. Empathize with him as he encounters and confronts bullies and egos hell-bent on destroying the dream. And root for him as he charges forth with a revolutionary new approach and strives to create an unparalleled magical journey at Cyrus for his guests and team, one based on style and substance with a conscience and connection.
248 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
15 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 20, 2025
There's a wonderful warmth and honesty to Keane’s voice as he narrates his life, making it easy to love and admire the flawed yet openhearted and deeply empathetic man within the pages. His love of his family, friends, dogs, and food is palpable, and his petty moments, when he describes celebrities and investors he's had run-ins with just serve to make him more endearing to me. And how sad am I to be on the opposite coast from Cyrus, his restaurant? SO SAD, you guys! I could practically taste the food when he described it, but 'practically' ain't the same as actually tasting it.
And yes, everything about the dogs made me tear up. And the elephants! OMG.
If there's a weakness here, it's when Keane shifts mode from memoir to prescriptive work. His points are excellent, but he has a tendency to repeat himself when trying to make them, and I miss the showing when he's telling. Nevertheless, this can't ding my rating much, because what Keene's trying to do for the culinary industry is so necessary and so good.
Thank you to NetGalley and Köehler Books for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions within are my own.
And yes, everything about the dogs made me tear up. And the elephants! OMG.
If there's a weakness here, it's when Keane shifts mode from memoir to prescriptive work. His points are excellent, but he has a tendency to repeat himself when trying to make them, and I miss the showing when he's telling. Nevertheless, this can't ding my rating much, because what Keene's trying to do for the culinary industry is so necessary and so good.
Thank you to NetGalley and Köehler Books for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions within are my own.
May 13, 2025
Book Review: Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat
by Douglas Keane
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.25/5)
Overview
Douglas Keane’s Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat is a compelling memoir-manifesto that blends personal narrative with industry insights, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the high-stakes world of professional kitchens. As a Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur, Keane chronicles his ascent through the ranks of fine dining, exposing the brutal realities of culinary ambition—long hours, cutthroat competition, and the relentless pursuit of perfection—while also celebrating the artistry and camaraderie that define the profession. More than just a memoir, the book serves as both a cautionary tale and a roadmap for aspiring chefs, emphasizing the importance of resilience, leadership, and self-awareness in an industry notorious for burnout.
Themes and Content
Keane’s narrative is structured around several key themes:
-The Grind of Greatness: A visceral account of the physical and emotional toll exacted by elite kitchens, from grueling shifts to the psychological pressure of maintaining standards.
-Leadership in the Kitchen: Keane reflects on his evolution from a line cook to an executive chef, stressing the need for mentorship, empathy, and strategic delegation.
-The Business of Food: Beyond cooking, the book delves into the financial and operational challenges of running a restaurant, including staffing, supply chains, and customer expectations.
-Personal Sacrifice: The cost of culinary obsession—strained relationships, health issues, and the blurred line between passion and self-destruction.
Writing Style and Structure
Keane’s prose is direct and conversational, mirroring the no-nonsense ethos of professional kitchens. His anecdotes are vivid and often darkly humorous, capturing the chaos and adrenaline of service. The book alternates between memoir-style storytelling and practical advice, though the transitions between these modes can feel abrupt. Some sections, particularly those detailing kitchen hierarchies and management strategies, read like a seasoned chef’s playbook, offering actionable insights for industry professionals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-Authenticity: Keane’s unfiltered honesty about the industry’s highs and lows lends the book credibility and emotional weight.
-Educational Value: Aspiring chefs will find invaluable lessons on leadership, efficiency, and sustainability in a volatile field.
-Engaging Narrative: The behind-the-scenes drama of Michelin-starred kitchens is as gripping as any reality TV show, but with far more substance.
Weaknesses:
-Niche Appeal: While fascinating to food industry insiders, some sections may feel overly technical or repetitive to general readers.
-Tonal Shifts: The oscillation between memoir and how-to guide occasionally disrupts the narrative flow.
-Limited Reflection: Keane’s focus on resilience sometimes glosses over systemic issues in the industry, such as wage disparities and mental health crises.
Section Scoring Breakdown (0–5)
-Emotional Impact: 4/5 – Raw and relatable, though occasionally veers into stoicism.
-Industry Insights: 5/5 – A masterclass in kitchen leadership and operational wisdom.
-Narrative Cohesion: 3.5/5 – Strong individual stories, but structural unevenness.
-Originality: 4/5 – Familiar themes, but distinguished by Keane’s unique voice and experience.
-Practical Utility: 4.5/5 – Invaluable for chefs, less so for casual readers.
Final Verdict
Culinary Leverage is a must-read for anyone serious about a career in food, offering a rare blend of hard-earned wisdom and unvarnished truth. While its niche focus and uneven structure may limit its broader appeal, Keane’s expertise and candor make it a standout in the crowded field of culinary memoirs.
★★★★☆ (4.25/5) – A fierce, enlightening, and occasionally brutal ode to the culinary grind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Douglas Keane, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
by Douglas Keane
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.25/5)
Overview
Douglas Keane’s Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat is a compelling memoir-manifesto that blends personal narrative with industry insights, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the high-stakes world of professional kitchens. As a Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur, Keane chronicles his ascent through the ranks of fine dining, exposing the brutal realities of culinary ambition—long hours, cutthroat competition, and the relentless pursuit of perfection—while also celebrating the artistry and camaraderie that define the profession. More than just a memoir, the book serves as both a cautionary tale and a roadmap for aspiring chefs, emphasizing the importance of resilience, leadership, and self-awareness in an industry notorious for burnout.
Themes and Content
Keane’s narrative is structured around several key themes:
-The Grind of Greatness: A visceral account of the physical and emotional toll exacted by elite kitchens, from grueling shifts to the psychological pressure of maintaining standards.
-Leadership in the Kitchen: Keane reflects on his evolution from a line cook to an executive chef, stressing the need for mentorship, empathy, and strategic delegation.
-The Business of Food: Beyond cooking, the book delves into the financial and operational challenges of running a restaurant, including staffing, supply chains, and customer expectations.
-Personal Sacrifice: The cost of culinary obsession—strained relationships, health issues, and the blurred line between passion and self-destruction.
Writing Style and Structure
Keane’s prose is direct and conversational, mirroring the no-nonsense ethos of professional kitchens. His anecdotes are vivid and often darkly humorous, capturing the chaos and adrenaline of service. The book alternates between memoir-style storytelling and practical advice, though the transitions between these modes can feel abrupt. Some sections, particularly those detailing kitchen hierarchies and management strategies, read like a seasoned chef’s playbook, offering actionable insights for industry professionals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-Authenticity: Keane’s unfiltered honesty about the industry’s highs and lows lends the book credibility and emotional weight.
-Educational Value: Aspiring chefs will find invaluable lessons on leadership, efficiency, and sustainability in a volatile field.
-Engaging Narrative: The behind-the-scenes drama of Michelin-starred kitchens is as gripping as any reality TV show, but with far more substance.
Weaknesses:
-Niche Appeal: While fascinating to food industry insiders, some sections may feel overly technical or repetitive to general readers.
-Tonal Shifts: The oscillation between memoir and how-to guide occasionally disrupts the narrative flow.
-Limited Reflection: Keane’s focus on resilience sometimes glosses over systemic issues in the industry, such as wage disparities and mental health crises.
Section Scoring Breakdown (0–5)
-Emotional Impact: 4/5 – Raw and relatable, though occasionally veers into stoicism.
-Industry Insights: 5/5 – A masterclass in kitchen leadership and operational wisdom.
-Narrative Cohesion: 3.5/5 – Strong individual stories, but structural unevenness.
-Originality: 4/5 – Familiar themes, but distinguished by Keane’s unique voice and experience.
-Practical Utility: 4.5/5 – Invaluable for chefs, less so for casual readers.
Final Verdict
Culinary Leverage is a must-read for anyone serious about a career in food, offering a rare blend of hard-earned wisdom and unvarnished truth. While its niche focus and uneven structure may limit its broader appeal, Keane’s expertise and candor make it a standout in the crowded field of culinary memoirs.
★★★★☆ (4.25/5) – A fierce, enlightening, and occasionally brutal ode to the culinary grind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Douglas Keane, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2025
Culinary Leverage by Chef Doug is a book that is both genuine, funny, and heartwarming holds a unique power to connect on a deeply personal level, especially for those of us in the food and beverage industry. The humor feels real, not forced, as it taps into the shared experiences and struggles we face daily—from the chaotic rush of service to the unspoken bond formed over a perfectly plated dish. It makes you laugh, not just because it’s funny, but because it speaks to your own reality. The warmth that radiates from the pages resonates deeply, offering moments of comfort, camaraderie, and inspiration that remind us why we do what we do. That we are not alone in this journey. For those in this industry, where long hours and high pressure can often overshadow the passion, such a book can serve as a much-needed reminder of the joy, humor, and heart that truly make the work worthwhile. It’s not just a read; it’s an experience that leaves you feeling understood, uplifted, and ready to face the challenges of the kitchen with a smile.
The writer’s honesty and insight not only made me laugh but also inspired me to be a better person and chef, not just for myself but for those around me. The way he shared his perspective helped me rethink what it means to work in a traditional kitchen. It’s not just about screaming or belittling people; it’s about fostering an environment of respect, creativity, and teamwork.
Chef Doug challenged me to approach both my cooking and my relationships with my colleagues with more empathy and understanding, shifting my view of a kitchen from a place of high pressure to one of growth, support, and shared passion. It’s more than just a read—it’s a call to become the kind of person who makes my work environment better for everyone involved.
A must read!!
Thanks Chef Doug
The writer’s honesty and insight not only made me laugh but also inspired me to be a better person and chef, not just for myself but for those around me. The way he shared his perspective helped me rethink what it means to work in a traditional kitchen. It’s not just about screaming or belittling people; it’s about fostering an environment of respect, creativity, and teamwork.
Chef Doug challenged me to approach both my cooking and my relationships with my colleagues with more empathy and understanding, shifting my view of a kitchen from a place of high pressure to one of growth, support, and shared passion. It’s more than just a read—it’s a call to become the kind of person who makes my work environment better for everyone involved.
A must read!!
Thanks Chef Doug
March 12, 2025
Culinary Leverage, takes the reader “through the heat” of Chef Douglas Keane’s journey of success, hardships, and overcoming industry norms. Readers get to see the world Chef Douglas live through as the chef describes his humble beginnings through a dark yet humorous tone. Chef’s self awareness in the book pulls readers to know him on a more personal level, with emotional backstories, the love of his dogs, heart breaks, and his music taste(it’s every chapter). Culinary Leverage tells readers that the journey to the top isn’t a smooth one, often there will be bumps through the way but good people are always willing to help through the trenches.
Chef Douglas does not pull and punches when it comes to his feelings of toxic restaurant ecosystem. He shines a light upon how restaurant culture is built for chefs to grow their own egos(chasing stars), and realizing all chefs were part of that problem. Chef Douglas has set out the goal to change restaurant culture and the living result of that is Cyrus 2.0. The second Cyrus is the living proof that restaurant employees can have a work life balance, and also have the restaurant be successful.
Culinary Leverage by Douglas Keane is a story told though raw honesty and humor. While also spreading awareness of mental health, and chef’s tenacity to push the envelope in the hopes of changing restaurant philosophy.
Thank you for writing this book, Chef.
Chef Douglas does not pull and punches when it comes to his feelings of toxic restaurant ecosystem. He shines a light upon how restaurant culture is built for chefs to grow their own egos(chasing stars), and realizing all chefs were part of that problem. Chef Douglas has set out the goal to change restaurant culture and the living result of that is Cyrus 2.0. The second Cyrus is the living proof that restaurant employees can have a work life balance, and also have the restaurant be successful.
Culinary Leverage by Douglas Keane is a story told though raw honesty and humor. While also spreading awareness of mental health, and chef’s tenacity to push the envelope in the hopes of changing restaurant philosophy.
Thank you for writing this book, Chef.
March 3, 2025
Culinary Leverage is nothing short of extraordinary. This book takes you on a gripping and inspiring journey through Chef Keane's career, offering a unique glimpse into the highs and lows of the culinary world. With candor, passion, and humility, Chef Keane shares his personal experiences, from the heat of the kitchen to his evolution as a leader in the restaurant industry.
What truly stands out in this book is the authenticity of Chef Keane’s voice. He doesn’t shy away from the challenges of the industry, but instead uses those moments as stepping stones to create a narrative about resilience, innovation, and leadership. His reflections on fostering positive work culture and pushing the boundaries of fine dining are insightful and motivating, not just for aspiring chefs, but for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their own career.
Keane's dedication to his craft is evident in every page, and the way he brings you into his world—both professionally and personally—makes Culinary Leverage an absolute must-read. Whether you're a food lover, a budding restaurateur, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level, this book is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.
Highly recommended!
What truly stands out in this book is the authenticity of Chef Keane’s voice. He doesn’t shy away from the challenges of the industry, but instead uses those moments as stepping stones to create a narrative about resilience, innovation, and leadership. His reflections on fostering positive work culture and pushing the boundaries of fine dining are insightful and motivating, not just for aspiring chefs, but for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their own career.
Keane's dedication to his craft is evident in every page, and the way he brings you into his world—both professionally and personally—makes Culinary Leverage an absolute must-read. Whether you're a food lover, a budding restaurateur, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level, this book is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.
Highly recommended!
March 2, 2025
Thank you, Köehler Books for providing a copy of Culinary Leverage by Douglas Keane for me to review. I learned of this book after reading an interview with Keane on the Food Gal blog. The interview was great and I couldn’t wait to read this memoir. It started out a little darker than I expected and I shed a few tears at first but that shows how affecting the writing was. I loved learning about the restaurant star rating system and how it affects chefs. I got a kick out of the mentions of Michael Bauer, former local restaurant critic here. I have a feeling Keane could have said a lot more about the “Bauer Era”! This is an amazing book that pulls no punches and is an interesting view of the realities of working in and owning restaurants. Keane has lots of ideas about improving the restaurant business, and his new venture Cyrus incorporates his vision. It sounds amazing and I really enjoyed meeting his team and learning about their contributions. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for this fascinating book!
March 29, 2025
Culinary Leverage by Douglas Keane is an amazing story! As someone who doesn’t read much non-fiction or memoirs, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I ended up really enjoying it.
Keane’s story is incredibly engaging, and it’s so easy to get lost in his narration. He demonstrates his strong Midwestern work ethic from the very first page, which I found very admirable. I was impressed by how he learned and grew through the challenges and experiences he encountered in his life. It’s inspiring to see the way he’s working to make positive changes in the culinary world.
The book is packed with valuable life lessons. It’s funny, emotional, and raw, striking a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments. One of my favorite aspects was his love and admiration for animals. His stories about his dogs were so sweet and touching, they truly highlight how much they’ve helped him throughout his journey.
Keane’s story is incredibly engaging, and it’s so easy to get lost in his narration. He demonstrates his strong Midwestern work ethic from the very first page, which I found very admirable. I was impressed by how he learned and grew through the challenges and experiences he encountered in his life. It’s inspiring to see the way he’s working to make positive changes in the culinary world.
The book is packed with valuable life lessons. It’s funny, emotional, and raw, striking a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments. One of my favorite aspects was his love and admiration for animals. His stories about his dogs were so sweet and touching, they truly highlight how much they’ve helped him throughout his journey.
March 18, 2025
Wow, although I'm definitely not a "foodie", I picked up this book because I had the good fortune to meet Doug when I was in Healdsburg a few years ago. He described his restaurant concept to me and mentioned that he was working on the book. The book totally blew me away with his frank and honest collection of his history and experiences in the hospitality industry. Doug's concept of how to run a sustainable business in one of the most difficult industry is both amazing and uplifting. Most people write books for their egos, Doug wrote this book to change an industry.
If you run a business or have ever eaten in a fine restaurant, you should definitely read this book. His proof of concept is available to experience in person at Cyrus, just outside of Healdsburg. Plan ahead because it takes months to get a reservation!
If you run a business or have ever eaten in a fine restaurant, you should definitely read this book. His proof of concept is available to experience in person at Cyrus, just outside of Healdsburg. Plan ahead because it takes months to get a reservation!
April 7, 2025
I’ve known Doug for 12 years. He’s one of the best people I know. I’d characterize our relationship as close acquaintances. Chapter one was a gut punch, but I was not surprised. The ten years it took to finally reopen Cyrus was filled with disappointments to say the least. Lesser people would have buckled. He came close. A Journey through the Heat is a gripping tale of the reality of an industry that most of us cannot live without. Yet few of us understand, know of or comprehend the disfunction that goes on behind the swinging door at the back of a restaurant. Doug has done a masterful job in sharing the real life of a chef. Every single one of us who dines out needs to demand better, and by that I mean respect the staff and be willing to pay more for that awesome meal because that’s the crux of the issue. Bon Appetit!
Read
May 6, 2025I loved this book. Doug's writing is very familiar and his "journey through the heat" is nothing short of a spiritual awakening. I too work in the hospitality industry and have had a front row seat to the brokenness of an industry that just wants to nourish people. It is an industry rife with drugs, alcohol and stress, and some get lost. The incredible detail of an extremely talented chef achieving all he set out to do, and now using those achievements & accolades to change the business. I encourage anyone who works and loves the restaurant business to read this book and come out feeling hopeful...and to anyone who loves to dine, it is a beautiful depiction of what goes into those meals &'the artists that create them....and to anyone on a spiritual journey looking for themselves and purpose in a broken world.
Oh and also to anyone who loves dogs.
Oh and also to anyone who loves dogs.
September 3, 2025
I loved this book!!! My dad was a chef/baker, and I grew up around food, so this book touched my heart. The honesty and the warmth that come through in Douglas Keane’s writing are refreshing. I also appreciate that he doesn’t just point out the issues he sees in the current way restaurants and kitchens are run, but he also comes up with ideas and solutions that can help bring about change.
The relationships he has had with his family and his dogs throughout the years are beautiful and heartwarming.
Douglas Keane’s writing is genuine, and he is not afraid to reveal the times when he was not at his best and the hardships he has endured, which have shaped him into the person he is today.
I don’t normally reread nonfiction books, especially memoirs, but this is one I would!
The relationships he has had with his family and his dogs throughout the years are beautiful and heartwarming.
Douglas Keane’s writing is genuine, and he is not afraid to reveal the times when he was not at his best and the hardships he has endured, which have shaped him into the person he is today.
I don’t normally reread nonfiction books, especially memoirs, but this is one I would!
March 3, 2025
If you're looking for an inspiring book of a man with a tenacious resilience this book is for you. Chef Doug really shows the true definition of "no matter how many times life knocks you down, you get back up." I had the privilege to get a copy before the actual release date and I devoured the book in less than a week. That is not to say that I'm done reading this book. I go back to it from time to time when I need a good push of motivation in my own life. This memoir came to me in a stressful time in my life where I needed a sense of guidance. Real, humble and witty, I'm recommending this book (to my book club) & to anyone and everyone.
March 5, 2025
This is an honest look into the journey of a well respected Chef. He shares in wonderful detail, through humor and music, the challenges, lessons, and joys of what it means to be a successful modern restaurateur. Chef Douglas Keane has encouraged me to view the restaurant world the right way. With this book I am convinced and confident in a healthy kind of leadership. One that inspires and uplifts. If you’ve felt the darkness of kitchens, restaurants, or just life this book is for you. This book will remind you that you are not alone, and there is still a light worth fighting for.
Thank you Chef Doug
Thank you Chef Doug
March 3, 2025
Incredible story of an incredible man. Doug allowed us into his world and shared his story with immense vulnerability and a perfect amount of humor. It’s educational for those who have a curiosity of the culinary world. I found the book to be very comforting to read. Almost as I was reading part of my own story. I truly believe Doug has already helped the industry so much. This book offers another way to access part of the world most of never talk about. We just grin and bear it. Anyways, thank you, Doug, for writing this book. ❤️
March 5, 2025
It is rare to find a book that the author so vulnerably and honestly invites you into their life, while telling their stories of triumphs and tragedies with such humility and humor. Culinary Leverage had me laughing and crying, sometimes simultaneously. It had me reflecting on passion and the extremely hard work and time devotion it takes to fight for your dreams, especially in the culinary world. I will return to this book over and over again. I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone!
March 28, 2025
To witness someone who did what it took, personally and professionally, to influence an industry practice, is awesome beyond compare. Peeling back the layers of notoriety, expectation, and endless pressure from all angles, Doug bares his true colors in this memoir…as an individual who has a passion and exemplary talent for food and service, is committed to fair practice and innovation in his industry, and is willing to take huge risks to insure that it happens in his business as a model to follow. Truly an inspiration!
March 15, 2025
Terrific read. The author shares his professional and personal experiences as a fledgling cook working his way to stardom. With hopes of influencing a kinder, more respectful world of culinary, he opens up his life with humor, easy reading and an obvious need to make things right.
I couldn’t put it down.
I couldn’t put it down.
March 4, 2025
This book is a must-read for anyone in the hospitality industry. Chef Keane is open, darkly funny, self-deprecating yet confident, an industry disruptor, and someone who truly believes in lifting up those around him. Highly recommend this deeply human story.
March 6, 2025
Truly an incredible story from an amazing chef with an inspiring and beautiful story that reveals the ugly truth of this business in lighthearted way that almost makes you forget the pain and emotion that is shared throughout his story.
March 6, 2025
Being in side the head of someone so formidable is truly a treat. This book will make you question how you have ever thought about yourself in critical life changing moments. Douglas Keane is truly taking you on a journey with all the juicy narrative you could hope for.
March 8, 2025
IT is a great read. Doug combines his personal journey brilliantly with life stories , the universal culinary and restaurant trials and tribulation and his profound love of dogs. Could not put it down and touched on so many levels. I cant wait for the movie or the next book.
March 14, 2025
This is a page turner ! Really hard to put down,
Chef Douglas Keen is an inspiration and an amazing culinary icon. What a great way to have transparency and insight into the restaurant world through his eyes
Chef Douglas Keen is an inspiration and an amazing culinary icon. What a great way to have transparency and insight into the restaurant world through his eyes
March 3, 2025
A true insider’s view of the restaurant/hospitality industry…a great read for folks who love a “behind the scenes” narrative.
March 3, 2025
Fantastic, in depth look inside the brain of a chef, for anyone wants to see how someone at his level got and stayed there.
March 3, 2025
A great journey through the culinary world. A nice balance of entertainment and thought-provoking. A valuable addition to any food lover’s library.
April 16, 2025
A Must-Read!
Douglas Keane’s Culinary Leverage feels like a genuine conversation with the man himself—authentic, engaging, and deeply personal. His journey is one of resilience, self-reflection, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. Throughout his career, he has remained true to his Midwestern work ethic, always striving to do the next right thing, no matter the obstacles.
What stands out most is Keane’s willingness to examine how he has shown up at different stages of his life, learning from setbacks and forging ahead with purpose. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance, making an impact, and staying true to one’s passion.
This book is an essential read for 20-somethings navigating their careers and life’s inevitable challenges. It offers invaluable lessons on personal growth, overcoming adversity, and building a meaningful career. Life is hard, but Keane’s journey is a reminder that persistence and purpose can lead to incredible outcomes.
Much admiration to Doug for the positive changes he’s made—not just in the culinary world but in an industry and society that need more of what he’s doing.
Douglas Keane’s Culinary Leverage feels like a genuine conversation with the man himself—authentic, engaging, and deeply personal. His journey is one of resilience, self-reflection, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. Throughout his career, he has remained true to his Midwestern work ethic, always striving to do the next right thing, no matter the obstacles.
What stands out most is Keane’s willingness to examine how he has shown up at different stages of his life, learning from setbacks and forging ahead with purpose. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance, making an impact, and staying true to one’s passion.
This book is an essential read for 20-somethings navigating their careers and life’s inevitable challenges. It offers invaluable lessons on personal growth, overcoming adversity, and building a meaningful career. Life is hard, but Keane’s journey is a reminder that persistence and purpose can lead to incredible outcomes.
Much admiration to Doug for the positive changes he’s made—not just in the culinary world but in an industry and society that need more of what he’s doing.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews