Lee Hefter

Background Worked at China Moon Café, San Francisco; Granita, Malibu.

How he got into cooking "I got a job in a Chinese kitchen when I was 16 to learn about food and eat for free."

First memorable meal "I still remember the sashimi tuna pizza dinner I had at New York's Quilted Giraffe when I was 18."

Weirdest food he's ever eaten "English food—all those organ meats and savory pies."

Favorite equipment "I always keep a regular tablespoon in my pocket. I can spoon sauces and turn meat and fish with it—it's my ace in the hole."

Favorite place to eat Il Mulino, New York City.

What he'd do if he weren't a chef "I would make jewelry."

Recipe tip When making stuffed pasta with a butter sauce, partially cook the pasta in boiling water, then finish it in the sauce for more flavor.

Won Best New Chef at: Spago Beverly Hills