I'm Not Trying To Be Difficult

“Foodies and celebrity watchers alike will enjoy Nieporent’s culinary adventures and misadventures.”

–Kirkus Reviews“Drew Nieporent is a true legend of the restaurant world, a visionary whose passion, perseverance, and deep love for hospitality have shaped the dining landscape for decades. In this compelling memoir, he shares the extraordinary journey that took him from waiting tables to becoming one of the most influential restaurateurs of our time. For anyone who loves food, restaurants, or simply a great tale of ambition, this book is a must-read.”–Eric Ripert“Drew is the consummate restaurateur of our generation and one of the all time best storytellers. I’m Not Trying to be Difficult will give readers the “behind the scenes” we’ve all been waiting for.“–Bobby Flay, chef“Drew is the ultimate diplomat of the restaurant world. He’s seen it all, the highs and lows of some of the greatest restaurants to ever exist–and here he’s sharing it with the rest of us.” –José AndrésThere’s no one quite like Drew Nierporent. In his deeply personal memoir, I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult, he offers an honest and uplifting look into his journey as a pioneering restaurateur in New York City. He shares the challenges and successes of building a culinary empire through engaging and nostalgic anecdotes, highlighting the resilience and personal growth required in the restaurant industry. With humor and insight, Nieporent’s memoir is a tribute to his experiences and an inspiration for those pursuing their profession. –Thomas Keller“Everyone who cares about food knows that Drew Nieporent is one of the people who changed American restaurants. In this startlingly honest memoir he takes you behind the kitchen door to show you how the business really works. If you go out to eat, you need this book.” –Ruth Reichl“I devoured Drew Nieporent’s delicious memoir, I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult, the page-turning story of a restaurateur’s restaurateur, whose insatiable appetites for food, hospitality, showmanship, and winning have fueled one of our industry’s most legendary characters and careers.” –Danny Meyer, Author of Setting the Table, the Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business“I’ve always enjoyed listening to Drew talk about his New York. I admire his ability to be honest about what he’s going through. His opinions, insights, successes and failures are never a secret. Through his experiences, young restaurateurs can gain some great insights into the world of restaurants.” –Rich Melman“Drew Nieporent is a born storyteller. Lively and inviting, he brings the frenzy and excitement of the New York dining scene to life with the same energy and warmth he’s brought to his restaurants throughout his incredible career.” –Harlan Coben