We recently sat down with Mr. Food and asked him some candid questions that have little to do with cooking. Here are his responses:
Marital Status: Happily married to Ethel Ginsburg, also referred to as “Mrs. Food,” of course
Children: Steve Ginsburg, Caryl Ginsburg Fantel and Chuck Ginsburg
Grandchildren: I have 6 – five girls and one boy, and I can’t forget my two grand-dogs!
Who cooks at home? Both my wife and I and, yes, I help with the dishes.
Favorite Book: Hawaii by James Michener
Favorite Food: A simple tomato sandwich made with thick-cut, home-grown tomatoes [link to sandwich recipe]
Hobby: I love golf. I’m not that great but, boy, do I love it!
Person you would most want to have dinner with: Ted Koppel, because I enjoy his objectivity when it comes to global issues
Most memorable professional day: When we were taping at the Ephesus Church in Harlem, New York, and the Boys Choir of Harlem sang their first notes. Their heavenly sound sent chills up my spine…it was truly moving. [link ]
Charities Supported: American Diabetes Association and Variety Club International among many others
Describe your perfect day: Golf in the morning then spending the rest of the day with my family. It’s very fulfilling.
Favorite TV show: I love watching Jeopardy. I’m actually pretty good at it, too.
Your biggest inspiration: It has to be my mom and dad. They both had such a passion for food, and it was amazing how both of them could turn practically nothing into something delicious. They had no choice but to make do with what little we had. I thank them every day for those life lessons.
What are your greatest joys: There are two. Of course, my family – I love being surrounded by them and sharing all that life brings us. Also, meeting so many people as I travel the country – you’re all like my extended family.
What’s your business philosophy? Treat other people the way you would want to be treated. I know, it sounds so basic, but it has been the foundation of my company from Day One.
What’s been the most challenging part of being Mr. Food? Today the concept of “quick & easy” is pretty widely accepted, but when I began my career as Mr. Food, many food critics thought I was nuts and this concept would never catch on! Boy, am I sure glad it did!
What is one thing you’ve yet to accomplish? With my busy schedule it’s always been hard to visit all the places that I would like to. I’d like to see more of the world and share those experiences with my fans. |