Celebrity chef Daniel Humm made an appearance on the popular talk show The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he discussed his restaurant Eleven Madison Park’s impressive achievement of receiving three Michelin stars. The chat between the two was lively and engaging, showcasing their camaraderie.
Humm expressed his gratitude for being invited back on the show, mentioning that winning three Michelin stars was a monumental accomplishment for him and his team. What made this achievement even more remarkable was the fact that Eleven Madison Park is a plant-based restaurant, defying the traditional expectations of fine dining.
Reflecting on his childhood dreams of becoming a chef and earning Michelin stars, Humm admitted that reaching this goal seemed almost impossible. However, twelve years ago, they surpassed their own expectations and secured the coveted three Michelin stars. For Humm, this recognition is not only an incredible honor but also a testament to the changing landscape of the culinary world.
During the pandemic, Humm transformed his restaurant into a community kitchen, providing meals to those in need. This experience gave him a newfound purpose and connected him on a deeper level with both food and the city of New York. When it came time to reopen Eleven Madison Park, Humm made the conscious decision to reimagine the restaurant’s concept, leading to the creation of his book, “Eat More Plants.”
The book, which serves as Humm’s personal journal and painting, was never intended to be published. However, during the pandemic, he used it as a means to meditate on ideas and document his thoughts about reopening the restaurant. The journal also captures the fear and uncertainty that Humm experienced during those challenging times.
“Eat More Plants” is not just an artistic endeavor for Humm; it is also a reflection of his livelihood. It highlights his personal journey and the risks associated with shifting to a plant-based menu. Ultimately, the book serves as a testament to his perseverance and the overwhelming support he received from guests who embraced the new culinary direction.
The decision to publish the book was a serendipitous encounter. Gerhard Steidl, a renowned publisher in Germany, was introduced to Humm’s work through a mutual friend. After witnessing the emotional impact of Humm’s journal, Steidl expressed his desire to collaborate on a book together. The result is a visually stunning piece that captures the essence of Humm’s journey and the beauty of plant-based cuisine.
Throughout the interview, it was evident that Humm’s passion for his craft and desire to create meaningful change in the culinary world were unwavering. His unique approach to fine dining and his dedication to showcasing the possibilities of plant-based cuisine make him an exceptional figure in the industry.
As the segment on The Tonight Show came to a close, Fallon commended Humm for his creativity and ability to constantly reinvent himself. Humm, filled with gratitude and a sense of humor, reciprocated the sentiments and thanked Fallon for always making him laugh.
For those interested in learning more about Daniel Humm‘s journey and exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, his book “Eat More Plants” is available for purchase at elevenmadisonhome.com. Stay tuned for more entertaining content on The Tonight Show!
