In New York, a mecca of fine dining, Le Bernardin is consistently at the top. On the Line is a riveting look at the inner workings of this world-class restaurant: the level of personal commitment; the fierce discipline and loyalty; the perfect organization and orchestration; the hiring and training; the real cost of food; the breakneck speed at which exquisite meals are prepared; the planning and problems of growing a business; and much more. The facts and figures are all here: the pounds of black sea bass served every week (500); the average number of minutes to cook a dish (5); the glasses washed by hand each day (1300); the bottles of wine in the cellar (14,000); the monthly flower bill ($12,000); the number of waitstaff who are actors (0). Told from the point of view of the principal players'”chefs to line cooks, porter to maître d', sommelier to captain'”the story lets you feel the heat, the creativity, the sense of accomplishment as 150,000 plates of culinary perfection are sent from the kitchen each year. The bonus is nearly fifty of Eric Ripert's favorite dishes, described from inspiration to execution, with such recipes as Striped Bass with Sweet Corn Puree and Grilled Shishito Peppers, Shaved Smoked Bonito, and Mole Sauce; Wild Alaskan and Smoked Salmon with Apple, Celery, and Baby Watercress and Jalapeño Emulsion; and Pan-Roasted Cod with Sautéed Baby Artichokes in Sage-and-Garlic Broth. Anyone who loves food and wants to be witness to the life and drama of one of the world's greatest restaurants will find On the Line a delicious read. Aspiring chefs will get an invaluable education, while seasoned food professionals will be refreshed and inspired. This beautiful and totally engaging book reveals what it takes to succeed in the high-heat world of haute cuisine.