It sounds like alcohol or other addictive substances may have played a role in Mr. Batali's behavior. Not to say the booze or (pick your poison) were responsible, but that they played a role. Witnesses confirm that much of the behavior took place when he was "under the influence". He says he doesn't remember the incidents. Typical alcoholic blackout behavior.
In order to get his life back, he may need to consider rehab and a "fearless and honest" assessment of his life. There's not a recovering alcoholic who truly works their program who can't say "There, but for the grace of my Higher Power, go I". I hope he has found his bottom and is on the way back up.
19
he should consider joining one of the Evangelical church's who were so quick to forgive the president's past. i didn't notice any comments from them in this thread.
22
Mario Batali and the other sexual harassers did not have “their worlds kicked out from under them as the #metoo movement gathered momentum”.
Their worlds were destroyed by often, as in Mr Batalis case, years of sexual harassment that hurt the lives of others. It was their own actions, he, and the others, are not the victims of a movement but their own actions.
Maybe when they put more effort into the act of contrition, of understanding their own despicable actions, that they will then earn back a career that they did not deserve before. Maybe when it is realized that Mr Batali has offered nothing more than a recipe, that we must say that it is too early for an article like this.
Mr Batali should’ve been fired years ago, and any gains after that are ill gotten. The Amalfi coast is too good for him, but is better than thinking he can wait it out and that things will go back the way they were within actions on his part.
43
Does he also regret skimming tips from his servers?
57
With the scorched earth tactics of the #MeToo movement, eventually the accusers who lied will soil the reputations of the true victims. The graves they are digging will need to be filled and it is, unfortunately, the honest accusers who will eventually be forced, via social momentum, to fill them. He would be much better off in Italy where the woman there have crushed the #MeToo movement due to its' non-redemptive, scorched earth, man-hating-shrew nature.
2
He needs to recall reported "episodes" and digest the impact those "episodes" had on the victims and know what he is apologizing for. I don't think he gets it. Meeting with important people is just a way of looking for approval. When I met him I told him about how our daughter-in-law got her young son to eat vegetables by promising him a meal at Babbo. He just looked right through me. It may be nigh impossible for someone with his ego to understand what is happening. #MeToo
31
I think he should just move on. I don't know why anyone was surprised. His ridiculous ego was such a turn off. I think the food world will survive and thrive without him.
47
Leaving the country… Disappearing entirely… It’s a wonderful idea.
34
You mean he hasn't moved to Amalfi yet ? I'm so sorry for his lovely wife and kids. Hope to never his name again. Addio Mario!!!
29
And The Times is giving him attention because...
C'mon.
40
While donating your time to refugees in Rwanda and Greece is very noble, how about something a bit more local, Mario? Why not use your talent to teach battered women or prisoners returning to society to cook basic simple meals at home?
46
So “decades-long pattern of abusive behavior” is just a marketing and positioning issue? No, Mario, you haven’t learned a thing.
42
Why is the nytimes giving him press? There isn't any real story here - it's just Batali PR. Who cares about what he is doing!? Giving serial harassers a platform for "image change" seems callous and not at all respectful to the women whose lives he affected very badly.
57
I was a huge fan of Batali's before his victims came forward. It breaks my heart that he would be capable of doing the things he is accused of. It is said that we are our true selves when we think no one is looking. For wealthy, powerful celebrities, I believe this is especially true when the cameras are off.
He should indeed retire and consider himself lucky. For his sake, hopefully the Amalfi Coast will embrace him.
11
I read Kim Severson's profiles and news stories about the culture of food with admiration. But this piece seems taken from the political pages: a damaged or hedging figure has people close to him leak a story about a plan he's mulling, with the aim of gauging public reaction. Here's mine: Not so fast, Mario. You can't earn indulgences for your sins simply by volunteering in Africa or hiring a woman CEO.
43
What Mario Batali did was terrible, but I am one who does not believe that he must pay for this for the rest of his life by taking away his profession. It's wrong to lump Batali together with Harvey Weinstein, who really is the monster who should be put away. There is nothing wrong with a man - any man - being given a second chance. Mario Batali still has so much more to offer. Let his comeback come slowly, if need be, but don't deny him the opportunity at redemption.
6
This is such a perfect encapsulation of the real social issue. Who is “taking away his profession?” He gave away his credibility and whatever good name he had. He can’t “comeback slowly” if nobody wants to work in the shadow of his ugly personality, and if nobody wants to pay money to be fed by him.
This is so much like the 2nd amendment gun nuts claiming “they want to take away my guns”. In the end, everything in this world is about entitlement, huh?
46
it seems that all those who are perfect human beings with immaculate behavior see everyone else as doomed individuals that will never be able to rise to the high level or perfection from where they could start to see all others as doomed.
It really should be a very sad life for these perfect human beings that are surrounded by imperfect people all the time.
8
The Red Menace needs to stay out of Rwanda and Greece. They don't need him adding to their problems.
21
[[...he is slowly coming to understand the impact of his behavior and the reasons it happened, including his relationship with alcohol.]]
That's one definition of addiction, when whatever substance you take impacts you work or your relationships.
Helping refugees is a lovely thing to do, but if you're still drinking and are suddenly surrounded by vulnerable people or by starry eyed young volunteers, you're just begging for more problems.
Get sober.
27
"...he is simply trying to learn to be the wallpaper in the room and not the room itself."
But how do you do that when you're Mario, and you ARE the room itself? Do we expect that one to change?
I'm with Mr. Bourdain, retire already and count yourself lucky. Go write another book, I've always thought I learned nearly more from Mario from his cooking shows than almost anyone else out there, but he screwed up, so quit whining and find a life elsewhere. I have.
19
Batali considers his next move while his effect on his family's business in Seattle has been compromised. The 19-year-old salumeria, Salumi Artisan Cured Meats, owned by Gina Batali and her husband was sold to Grant Peak Capital, a one-year-old Seattle entrepreneurial search fund, about three weeks before the Eater story broke. Although Gina Batali and her husband kept a minority equity stake in their family company, the sale doesn't seem coincidental. "Jes sayin'."
9
The only "celebrity chef" I know is the guy who owns and does the cooking in the Italian bistro near me who works long hours and has been turning out delicious, imaginative food, using great ingredients for years now.
He isn't a fat slob with a drinking problem and doesn't abuse his help.
I wish Mario and his ilk would just go away.
40
As long as Trump the misogynist is in the White House who has a video of himself stating that he can grab women by the genitals "because when you are a star they let you do it," Batali has every reason to believe that he and other men who have behaved badly bordering on criminally should be able to make a comeback from their disgrace.
Currently we are holding many men to a standard to which Trump isn't being held particularly by his own party.
37
Take the Money .Disappear ......
6
Anthony Bourdain got it right. Walk away in shame. Batali is lucky he escaped criminal prosecution.
Unfortunately, he "is the room where it happened", to quote Hamilton.
19
I'm unclear why the Times continues to write these articles about how men who've committed pervasive sexual harassment and assault are trying to find/reinvent themselves. These men have had plenty of the limelight during their careers, to the detriment of women around them. Why are we not trying to find the women whose careers and lives were derailed as a result of Batali's harassment and abuse, and profile them? Give them the opportunity for publicity and to let their talents shine.
62
As an observer of human behavior - my own as well - I'm pleased to see this story - I want to know what's going to happen next in the lives of the victims and of the accused. I was very interested to know what these folks are doing. I guess Batali is dipping his toes in the water too soon - based on the reaction of everyone here but I would never wish for these folks to be the next homeless people etc. on the planet. In a way that would mean we see a homeless person as someone deserving of what's happening to them... Because of the mistakes they made. Misogyny is being called out - that's fab - but condemnation for all eternity - for Al, Louie, Aziz(????)... all men who have made big missteps concerting women or men? we have to learn and teach - and I agree - Batali needs to look inward - but maybe he is - he talked to some friends who happen to be powerful - probably he should be talking to his wife and a good therapist in stead. We have to discern what were crimes and what was sloppy bad behavior - and stop picking on Mario's "look" - he likes it = that's all that matters...
4
Pass...
2
Wait! His wife's family founded Coach Inc. and later, Coach Farm?
2
He sounded like one of the worst of these guys. Why should he get to come back? He's a crude egotistical person used to being in power and then abusing it.
16
This will ruin Amalfi for everyone. There's no place for people without a sense of self-control and decency - maybe Gomorrah.
8
Cut down on the sauce,and start wearing pants.
The rock star days have passed.
14
between your sexual abuse and your employee abuse by stealing their wages, you are lucky there have been no criminal penalties for you. yet.
28
I am a forgiving person. And I believe that many of the accused men can be forgiven in time. But if you've been accused & you're trying to make a comeback in 2018, that's way too soon. The earliest any of these guys can even think about a return is mid 2019 or after. A good way to come back into public life would be an acknowledgement of what they did wrong, how it negatively affected the victims & their trade, and how they can contribute to a better working environment going forward.
3
What is remarkable is how so few people comprehend that this is the story of a man with a substance abuse problem, not just a #MeToo problem. Least of all the red-nosed New York Times staff. Substance abuse at all class, racial and economic levels is the fiddler calling the tune in this plague of global moral and narcissistic depravity.
9
I have known Mario personally for 15 years. I live in the small town he comes to every summer.What I have seen is a very generous man who has given alot to our little community from marshaling our dog parade to giving his time and money to support all the other causes that go into a small town .I have taken him and his kids tubing in lake michigan and eaten hot dogs around a campire with him and his family. I 've witnessed a good father and husband. He is just a man going through life trying to do his best.He has made mistakes like everyone other human being on earth and has recognized his faults and is trying to improve.Maybe the people who seem so ready to condemn him should take this chance to look in the mirror and evaluate their own life and what they could change for the better
10
"On the other hand, Mr. Batali has said, he might just move to the Amalfi Coast."
If I were he, I'd be there already.
8
To be honest, I am not a fan of Mr. Batali's, but it began prior to the news from last year.
First time it was when he was cooking a pork dish on one of his shows where he had a few people watching and then eating his food. He didn't wash his hands after handling the raw meat and then went on to handle a number of other things and then served up the dish.
The second time was when there was an article about how he skimmed service staff tips and had to settle for over $5 million.
As a person who spent many years at various jobs in the restaurant business, that did it for me.
29
Most importantly, seek professional counseling, if you are not doing so already. A therapist will help you reconcile the "speed bumps" (that we all hit - just not as public as yours) before you set out in a new direction.
Don't make any major changes for a year - just concentrate on keeping the focus on you and how to make a healthy "sea-change" with what is left of your career.
Perhaps - after a year -consider opening a small restaurant on the Amalfi coast and do what it is you do best...cook! You will be out of the States, have some time for reflection and healing with your family and just get off the crazy merry-go-round that is New York City.
If you go, be sure to pay your staff a decent, living wage and maybe, from time to time, go to a homeless shelter somewhere on the coast and cook a meal for people who really need it. No fanfare, no cameras, just a chef cooking a meal for very hungry people.
This may be a blessing in disguise. But most of this "transition" will depend on you, your attitude and willingness to move in a low-key new direction. And your life will change in ways you never imagined.
All the best.
11
He did not just use inappropriate words. He is accused of touching women in private areas. This is never acceptable when the woman does not want to be touched. No one would want their daughter or wife touched like that. If he wants real redemption he should ask the women he touched how they think he should correct the problem he has. There are others in the Metoo movement he could reach out to.
9
Or run for president.
5
I agree that there needs to be nuance to the #MeToo movement (spoken as someone with numerous MeToo moments in my past).
We have lumped inappropriate language in with rape. That's wrong (unless the language is grossly offensive and the person doesn't respond to counseling on reining it in). If someone has been behaving someway for years, and never got called out on it, I can understand how they are now baffled about what happened and how to correct. Throwing them under the bus doesn't help.
What helps is to work toward developing norms that allow for people who start to get out of line to be (at least at first) gently called out and guided towards more appropriate behavior. That is not politically correct - that is simply manners. Start early and correct small things when people are young and they will grow up happier, and everyone else will be happier.
In the meantime, we need to figure a way to put some nuance into these accusations.
4
This article sounds as if it was written with the help of a publicist to sound out the waters. The problem of abusive behaviour remains. Individuals can decide whether or not to patronise him, but the Times should not be giving him quite such a large helping hand. What is it doing for those him abused?
26
This has all gotten a bit ridiculous. We are talking about, at best, rude behavior. Not criminality, just behavior that has now been elevated to a quasi-crime by the politically correct and the professionally overly sensitive. No, I am not condoning what he may or may not have one - by the way, can anyone calling for his head please enumerate for me the heinous things he's done, along with any proof that raises these incidents from allegations to proven facts - but enough is enough. This is a man with a universal reputation for kindness and generosity of spirit and because of allegations of rude behavior, his life is being ruined.
Are women so delicate these days that they lack the self esteem to meed rude behavior head on with a simple, "Hey, don't ever do that again, pal!" Really, for all the endless blather about women's strength you sound like a bunch of delicate hot house flowers. Being made "uncomfortable" is not tantamount to be criminally assaulted.
7
"Being made "uncomfortable" is not tantamount to be criminally assaulted."
At some point the assault becomes criminal.
6
I will give you the benefit of the doubt and assume you did not actually read the article (or ones it linked to). Batali is not accused merely of "rude behavior." he is accused of sexual assault, which is a felony, including one episode where he allegedly sexually assaulted an unconscious woman. If you actually think this is no big deal, then you need help as badly as Mr. Batali.
26
I agree wholeheartedly with you, sir. This Me Too movement has gone too far. Rape and grabbing are crimes but if a woman can’t handle verbal comments or flirtation or questionable language, she is weak. And not to report the incident immediately is wrong, I don’t care what you’ll lose or how afraid you are. Women, if it’s all verbal, get a backbone, for God’s sake!
2
Whose bright idea was it to minimize the whole issue of sexual misconduct by linking the phrase about Batali's past behavior possibly bordering on the criminal to a jokey tweet?
8
Giving Batali ink while ignoring the women that his behavior has hurt is really beneath the good name of the Times. You should do better.
51
Do you really believe they are "ignoring" the victims here? The Times broke wide open the story on Weinstein that changed the social landscape of this country. Stop whining.
5
With all the discussion of his misoygny and related sexist behavior, what has been unmentioned that's perhaps the scariest part of all is that he didn’t recall all of the reported episodes. Yet nowhere have I read that he is seeking treatment for an obvious substance abuse problem. Hopefully he has or will, for the sake for his family and any friends he has left...
20
I am not sure whether this speaks to a substance abuse problem or merely his attempt to diffuse the accusations by claiming he did not remember them. this is a tactic that has been used by several accused of sexual misconduct/harassment as of late.
7
Going to therapy for sexual misconduct will not diffuse any accusations. What therapy for sexual misconduct does do is (1)make the offender take responsibility for his actions, (2)make the offender understand the harm he caused to the victims and (3)have the offender create personal changes in their lives to not repeat the behavior. In the third part of therapy is where patterns of substance abuse are revealed and for many offenders, drug & alcohol abuse are part of the problem.
3
I agree 100%. Not just the memory lapses, but look at him - his physicality indicates over use of alcohol. If he came out saying that he was getting sober and seeking therapy that would be a something.
4
Stay down, Mario. Stay down.
18
NYT editors, why was this article even published? Lets hope every outed predator, wanting to stick a toe in to see if the water has cooled down, will not be treated with similar kid gloves. Or does the NYT not believe this is a paradigm shift?
35
Let's hope Batali takes the public's temperature and desire to forgive by reading these comments. The NYT should not allow itself to be used in this fashion and apparently its readers know better!
19
Thank God the general public bears little resemblance to the main stays of NY Times commenters.
I think what he did is reprehensible but he should take himself and his family to Amalfi or anywhere in Italy and start fresh. As far as people saying not to eat at his restaurants, the only people that hurts are the people who work there and don't agree or condone his behavior. I have witnessed only professionalism from them. By not going to these restaurants you are putting 2,100 families out of work. He is pushed out of these establishments and is not making money from your attendance.
10
For years neighbors of his Babbo restaurant said he violated the terms of the trial zoning that allowed that restaurant to open in the first place, and fought its renewal. And I forgot about the lawsuit he lost, brought by wait staff who said he stole their tips, gave them to supervisors who were supposed to by on salary. The kicker is when he told the others on "The Chew" that you should tip delivery drivers 20%. He didn't say if customers should put cash in the driver's hand. Of if customers should put on their credit card when they place the order (so that management can distribute if and how it feels fit).
13
He should follow Bourdain's advice. Retire to Amalfi and write about food or anything else. We've had enough.
22
I say he should run for President. I'd LOVE to see him debate the Donald.
4
Instead of talking about the damage he has done to women, he is talking about the damage done to his career and reputation.
Need I say more?
151
"Several powerful men, in several industries, have had their worlds kicked out from under them as the #MeToo movement has gathered momentum."
Could that be worded a little differently?
Many unknown or little-known powerless women, in several industries, have had their worlds kicked out from under them as power-crazed egomaniacal men abused, humiliated, manipulated, groped, or even raped them. They then created the #MeToo movement to do a little world-kicking of their own.
59
He is only a chef, many folks at home can cook as well as he can. Who cares? Give me Julia Child any day.
24
I, too, might just move to the Amalfi Coast.
5
If Trump can be president with his sick comments and allegations against him - with the majority of the white women’s vote - Batali can surely return to work
It’s a sad world.
5
The Amalfi coast sounds nice.
8
Perhaps a sexual harrassment consulting business? Go to restaurants and talk to the staff about what not to do, and what TO do if you are harrassed.
Show some humility, dude.
11
Never again.
7
Maybe he can join Trump’s cabinet for a second act. He would fit right in with the clown show going on in Washington.
8
“...and try my new pizza roll recipe “
4
A comeback? I'm still hoping his assaulting an unconscious woman results in jail time.
22
Muhlke is right: "The old ‘wait it out and return appearing humbled’ prescription no longer applies.”...Batali has yet to understand that the days of abusing your staff to satisfy your needs for whatever reason are over. So, my adive? Move to the Amalfi Coast. Upon up a 5 table place, live above it, and retire.
12
The only real option is to just go away. The world will keep spinning and louts will be forgotten. As the years pass and memories fade, some might regain a bit of celebrity but they’ll always strike this reader as pathetically needy.
Amalfi calls, Mario.
19
Mr Batali move to China or India. Redefine yourself and enjoy cooking. The world is not America or the insanity of the extreme right or left that is gripping is today.
3
Mario Batali is not a handsome man, and probably never was a good looking kid. Imagine the rejection he experienced during his wonder bread years when girls looked the other way when he approached.
Then imagine him coming to realize how fame and money flipped the paradigm on its head, and he could have his way with the kind of pretty girls who rejected him as a kid. He probably had very little skill in that area, not suave at all. But his fame and money won out and he didn't know there was a better way to court a woman.
I'd like to hear from ugly guys who grew up feeling rejected, but managed to have successful careers. Would Mario Batali and Harvey Weinstein have become the predators they are now known to be if they looked like George Clooney or Matt Bomer?
Should their looks be taken into account when figuring out if they deserve a second chance?
4
Short answer: NO.
13
Seriously???
14
Some serial rapists/killers have been handsome. Why did they do it if they were good looking enough to attract women? Dumb question.
The majority of unattractive men do not molest women. So perhaps there's another motivation??
3
Isn't he also the one who had to settle for ripping off his staff for tips? He really is a charmer. Maybe people should think about that the next time they want to go out to eat.
And he wants redemption? How long before he is caught doing something else that is reprehensible? I wonder what the next step is after theft and sexual abuse?
14
p.s. I'm not kidding. I think Harvey Weinstein's looks made him a perfect villain. Women would most likely recoil if someone like him made a play for them -- and poor Mario, another unattractive guy, overweight, bad dresser -- sure, I'd let him cook for me, but not kiss me.
I think a man's looks, normally not on the table in discussions of romance, are on the table in discussions of harassment.
4
Harassment means it's unwanted. For whatever reason. His behavior made him a villain, not his looks. The majority of people are not particularly great looking. Let's stay focused on the real issue.
7
I guess the apology followed by the to-die-for cinnamon roll recipe wasn't enough to satisfy the offended public.
8
Just like the garbage about Paula Dean, this is a mountain made out of a rock. People who do not like Batali are so quick to jump on the "get out" bandwagon for that reason only when they do not even know the man. I don't either, but he has apologized and is seeking help and advice, I think he should go on and be bigger and better. Forget the critics and wannabes, they all are jealous and seek attention. Batali doesn't need them - only those of us who visit his restaurants.
5
yes, he apologized and included a nifty recipe at the end of his apology - super delicious cinnamon rolls - thanks, big guy, you're the best!
10
And the $5 mil in stolen tips that he had to pay back to staff in 2014. Was that garbage too? Fitting because he is a pig in too many aspects of his life.
23
If this were a society that truly rejects sexual harassment, Batali would have been sent to jail to ponder his abhorrent conduct. Instead, he is featured in The New York Times about a possible "comeback" as other millionaires in his circle give him advice and a woman employee sings his praises.
Batali didn't ask Bourdain for advice, but Bourdain is the only one with the right advice: “Retire and count yourself lucky.”
This ugly parade of famous men seeking "redemption" is all about themselves, their careers and their families. As if they were the injured party.
No, Batali, even though I loved your recipes, you're just another sexual predator but famous friends. Go away!
113
You are half right. Yes predators are hard to change. Don't execute this guy but also be wary of him and monitor him.
What you don't say in your post are co dependent and enabling women possible with this guy and definitely with other predators like Weinstein.
Sexual harassment has been illegal since app. 1980. Countless women have sued, filed complaints and won redress. I know I saw plenty in my corporation.
However what many also do is enable or co depend the predator, ie wait many yrs. to complain (like Anita Hills, Weinstein's victims) only complain when the roles advancement stop, or keep quiet if the predator is contributing to their cause like M. Streep, Hillary, NOW etc, or worse start the sexual activity.
The only thing as worse as a predator is a co dependent or enabler or any sex but especially a woman.
Predators live for them.
13
correction AWL...if this were a society that truly rejects sexual harrassment, next to Batali would be half the men in this country. Don't tell me the "ordinary man" has not at some point in his time, exercised, wielded, hovered his masculinity, control, charm and charisma, and his ire, over women, blue-color workers, etc. the finger-pointers and the ones calling for Mario's head, I bet, are married to, have dated at one time or another, befriended, or taken a liking to, the same type of man. Not that these men should not be held accountable for their bullying behavior, they absolutely should.....but you know as well as I that they are NOT the only ones by a long shot. The judgement in the room is defining.
Paul, most women know what you apparently still do not: It's not about enabling predators, particularly in the workplace, but about power. The power lies with these men, who have been given license to abuse as they wish because women fear losing their jobs, reputation in an industry as a whistle-blower, etc., and so choose to look the other way rather than jeopardize their livelihood. It's ridiculous that some men are still wondering why it takes women so long to come forward; just look at how they're rewarded e.g., (Anita HIll, your example). Thanks goodness change is finally coming!
14
Seems to be Batali has no issue with his behavior... it’s the getting caught part he’s struggling with...
20
His day in that old spotlight has ended
4
At no time did Batali mention therapy...I mean we're talking about a serial abuser who "can't remember," probably because there were so many, many more.
Let him cook for his family and friends
7
And Gwyneth!
2
For his own health I hope he's working out and eating more healthily. He looked like a heart attack in progress.
6
It is well known in Europe that the Eataly stores are shutting down/harming local producers, because they will buy your products but only if you sell to them exclusively, and at very low prices.
They are having a huge negative impact on artisanal food producers, especially in Italy.
The abusive practices of this gang continue...Read also Joe Bastianich's Restaurant Man. The idea of him pointing a finger at Batali for sexual harassment is laughable.
13
John Besh is just about shut down in Louisiana because of running his restaurants like a “fraternity house “. And believe me , there are many talented chefs knocking down the door for the opportunity to bring their talent to the spotlight with a much different perspective after seeing this tawdry behavior. Mario’s wife is probably waiting for the financial settlement to be completed and then she’s taking the children and leaving for a peaceful life. As the members in AA would say it sounds like he’s a dry drunk.
3
As a society, we should wish that many of those caught up in the #metoo revelations should give back to society by making license plates upstate (Weinstein and Cosby and the like).
Others, who make restitution and amends, and whose transgressions might be more mild, might find a way to contribute to society. I don't really know about the transgressions or contributions of Battali, but I will say that I know some of these creators, musicians, newscasters, etc. have something to learn as well as something more to give to the world.
Support for growth and change might be an important and lasting aspect of #metoo. As a father, I try to set a good example for my son. A big part of that is admitting when I'm wrong, making amends, and working towards being a better person. I think it would be instructive to all young males to see, sometimes even publicly as in this article, that men can mend their ways and live better lives in better ways.
16
He left us with some good cookbooks...leave it at that.
4
This guy should be treated like a sex offender, albeit convicted by a corporation and or civil judgement not criminal.
Let the prospective applicant know that he is a professional chef with a top rating but also had sexual harassment complaints/discipline.
If the person applies and gets harassed, start action if not and becomes a co dependent or enabler the person is no better than the predator.
12
Mario
Take it from one who was never a fan. The second act in American Life, for those who truly commit themselves to become better human beings is as American as apple pie.
Stop canvassing big names for advice. Look inside yourself. If you are capable of truly becoming a better version of yourself then go out and do it. Use your talent to create decent jobs where people are valued, justly compensated and treated with respect. Whether you go to Rwanda or Queens go committed to create a better more equitable version of the business you once ran. Talk less and do more.
Weinstein, O’Reilly, Cosby whoever some want to compare you to soldier on. Do the right thing in the future and make up for your past. Don’t run off and hide. Do all that and I may even go to one of your new restaurants.
1
There seems to be at least some misplaced scolding going on here. The restaurant/bar biz is pretty much an exercise in sophistry in the first place—flattery everywhere, including at Battali’s level, pretty much false consciousness from start to finish. The alcohol culture greases the wheel, including, let’s face it, Anthony Bourdain’s wheel, although he appears to keep his head on straight with respect to women (and men). Food (and drink) can facilitate human interchange, but in the restaurant/bar biz it’s chiefly about money—sociality is a means to an end.
We excuse some alcoholics with talent, such as Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Christopher Hitchens, let’s throw in Jim Harrison, from Battali’s sometime American home away from home (the list could be greatly extended), but we start getting self-righteous when fine-dining is the topic, where flattery is at least cloaked with myths about being prudent and civilized. To be frank I find more civility, less flattery, in what William Least Heat Moon called “three and four calendar restaurants” (a remembered quote).
Cut it out. Yes, everyone needs to cut out the abuse (funny word, that—useful, but it resists adequate definition) of women and girls. Dignity and respect are due everyone (let’s throw in the guys, too), but alcohol and the restaurant “culture” are only one more public place under attack by the self-righteous (I notice they like to attack churches, too—interestingly, synagogues and mosques, etc., not so much...).
3
I love that Joe Bastianich comes out of this with his hands clean. What. A. Joke. I worked as a waiter in a few high end NYC places and the things you would hear about both of these guys were scary. They were convicted of stealing money from their employees some years back. You did not want to have anything to do with either of these guys.
20
I do not know the specifics of what Mr. Batali has been accused other than general descriptions of the sort in this article. But I presume given the response from the public, his friends, associates and himself, it must have been pretty disgusting and disturbing. That said, is there room for redemption for such a person? That appears to be the debate. I am just a shmo who enjoys cooking, owns a ton of Batali cookbooks and has long admired his public persona. It may take a long time for him to achieve redemption, with many justifiably skeptical eyes on him during this process, but I hope there is such a road for him.
1
This is a masterpiece of equivocation. He's terrible, but maybe not. Other than more branding and attempts at reforming, not sure what the point is here. I was a huge fan back when his first cooking show was brilliant and thoughtful. It truly feels like there are so few good guys in the world of money, fame and power. So horrifying. But this piece just feels like a pass. I'm going with Bourdain on this.
8
This story portrays a person who doesn't seem to fully grasp the gravity of his past behavior. It portrays a calculating opportunist whose efforts are being directed toward looking for a way back into the game rather than making amends and seeking personal change.
20
I'm just so tired of narcissists these days. Even attempts at redemption reek of self-interest. In the restaurant world, survival of the fittest is not only a matter of great food and service. Thankfully, it now includes good behavior. Hopefully, genuinely more humble, kind, and generous chefs will rise to the top.
27
Egad. someone brought up another Mario and Gwyneth series? Save the PBS investment. As disappointing as each episode was, I kept watching, because I expected to enjoy Mario and Mark Bittman and see insights into Spanish cuisine and culture at some point. Nada. Watch them cook in Spain, uh, what's the point of that? I didn't want to hear about GP missing her children while zipping past beautiful countryside in a convertible. And, I really couldn't figure out why anyone thought it was a good idea to have a Willy Nelson song open a series about food travel in Spain. There, I'm done with that. The reason I'm not done with him, though, is that this guy is not just a businessman in shorts, and not only a chef trying to turn simple ingredients into money, but he's good at cooking, he has studied, he appears to have a palate, and has some knowledge that I appreciate and learn from.
3
Mario. Do a road trip with Gwyneth Paltrow again. Best Food program ever. B
2
Whatever happens to Batali is less interesting to me than our collective societal response to moral failure. Whether it's Bill Clinton or Bill Cosby, Batali or dozens more, I want to understand if we consider redemption possible. Can a human commit despicable acts, repent, make amends, turn their life around, and still make a contribution to society that we would accept, or do we think the person must simply be banished forever? By all accounts, Batali has not yet paved his own road to redemption. But if he did, if he truly acknowledged his failure, turned away from it, and became an exemplary person, would we ever welcome him back? I'm not entirely sure if I want to live in a society that would banish him forever, or one that would be willing to accept him back.
6
maybe if he planned to spend some of his very large fortune on educating restaurateurs about how to treat employees, and therapy for those already victimized, instead of contemplating life out of the spotlight on the Amalfi Coast, I'd say Maybe. But he, like so many abusers, seems more upset at having been caught and disapproved of, than of his actual acts. So, nope. Redemption? If he were poor, he'd be going to jail.
9
Naval gazing:
"Others, including people who have worked for him, say the absence of his food knowledge and his palate would be a loss."
There are 325 million people in the U.S. Surely there is someone else who also has extensive food knowledge and a great palate.
I have no doubt that Mr. Batali has enough money to retire comfortably. We should all be so lucky. Perhaps he could grow herbs somewhere in the countryside. And count his blessings that he wasn't prosecuted for sexual harassment and sexual assault.
28
I am not excusing anything Mr. Batali did, but we must also recognize that part of the issue is the culture of the restaurant industry that allows 'Temperamental Chefs' to exist. Some of these chefs are allowed to treat people in a way that no one outside of the restaurant world would tolerate. It is time for the industry to come into the modern world, and that means respect for all workers, from the dishwasher through the Chef. You can be creative without being a Jerk.
33
From what I recall at the time every incident in which Mr Batali was accused of inappropriate behavior involved him being intoxicated. He is a culinary genius, extremely intelligent, and true humanitarian. He can ask everyone he wants to for advice about his career, but until he addresses the real problem of alcohol addiction nothing will change for him. All of the good things he may have to offer will be drowned in a bottle of booze.
12
Mario Batali is no genius. He is a hyper-driven promoter, talented and hard-working and rich because of it. A humanitarian? He and his partner stole and were convicted of taking $5M in tips from his own staff, people working hard for the money and were abused by him to boot. What humanitarian does that?
9
It will be a hard and humbling road back to the spotlight.
4
Alcohol is clearly a key in many of these cases. That's a caution about expecting harassment to go away, because an impaired individual will do bad things.
12
Batali declined to be interviewed for this article and as stated in the article " is still figuring out his stuff" so I don't see why people are giving him a hard time for being in that state. If he had years of bad behavior it seems reasonable that it will take time for him to figure out his behavior and change it. As a woman , I say :let him work on himself and work toward redemption.
24
Ha! His PR people got this story in the Times, and Batali humbly declines to be interviewed for it. So obvious a pity ploy. Go away and stay away. And oh, the Rwanda thing is a nice touch, too. But Jose Andres is so much more genuine than little Mario.
6
What? Impossible.
Off with his head!
1
Thank you for your closing line. ... I'm reminded of the cliche that includes "until you walk in my shoes...."
That is, I kinda get how many intelligent women would assert that this is an issue where men should "just shut up," because empathy is simply insufficient to let us back in the "dialog."
But I think we need a few million women - some of whom have had to fend off unwanted advances; many/most of whom have had to choose between ignoring sexist remarks or responding to them, etc.
to raise their voices (those who feel that way) to remind the others that
(a) NOT ALL MEN are guilty; and
(b) [much tougher] even some of those who are ... are more to be pitied than pilloried. Yes, it's hard to "pity" a "sexist pig," but recognize that the norms in 2018 are not what they were in 1998, much less 1978.
You may say it's a poor excuse that "Mario didn't get the memo." [As best I know, he probably *DID* get it, although I think it's a near certainty that he either didn't "read it," understand it or take it to heart!]
Obviously, I agree.
But it is - as the French say - DE TROP - to all but insist that he should never work again, that he should choose between a kind of monastic life or going back to a country only marginally "his" and making a life for himself there.
I'm sure many women - just as you did - recognize that "making amends" is extremely difficult. AA insists you must apologize, and that strikes me as "about right." (Together with, of course, #NeverAgain.)
I disapprove of what Batali did assuming that the allegations are correct (one might apologize and accept guilt as the quickest way of making an issue like this go away, after all). Still, none of the charges come close to resulting in the livelihood of an individual and moreover we're talking restaurants here, not politics. One may choose to patronize his products or not, that is the choice each of us as a consumer has but while it's true that this affair is surely distasteful, I simply don't agree that he should be blackballed from the restaurant/food industry "for life" as a result, regardless of what the "holier than thou" and "never forgive" clique might think.
36
one doesn't have to be "holier than thou" to oppose the resurrection of a self-confessed abuser.
what good could come from his return to this industry? could his seat not be filled by a skilled and charming chef without a history of molesting drunk women (molestation/abuse which is likely to have continued had he not been revealed by the #metoo saga) if this gluttonous, fame-driven, women-abusing chef were allowed to return, all we would learn is that wielding your power over others for sexual exploitation is acceptable behavior as long as you apologize, self-reflect, and feed refugees (but only if you're caught in his case).
if he wants to contribute to real change, he should do it away from the public eye...without this self-serving attempt at simultaneous virtual signaling and a mea culpa.
7
Nowhere in the article does it specify that Batali, in all his heartfelt introspection, is spending any time examining the underlying sexism and gender bias he possesses which allowed him to believe sexual harassment was an appropriate way to engage with any woman but especially women in his employ. It sounds like Batali is simply waiting for the public to forget. Without the personal reckoning any 2nd coming will be fraught.
46
Thank you for saying that.
4
Basta!
There are more than enough fame whores walking around.
Take a hint from Andres and go feed the world...you'd be behind the scenes and helping those who really need it.
Plenty of people are def. over bad mannered "celebrity chefs".
49
Hang him up by his orange crocs. He’s a publicity whore and a total pig.
40
I remember watching his PBS Spain travelogue with Mark Bitman and Gwyneth Paltrow. He came off really pervy.
29
Absolutely agree. I got the same vibe from watching him on this show.
Also could not believe Ms. Paltrow was a willing participant in this.
13
She has not a clue.....
4
It's not "my" tradition, but this is that unparalleled time of the year when America's 2 great religions are almost "in synch," so repeat after me -
"Let him who is without sin cast the first stone."
Even more full-throatedly, WE ARE ALL a mixture of good deeds and others that depart from our OWN ideals - and likely, those of "the crowd's" belief as to what's right.
For the growing number of non-liberals who seem to offer comments in this area - I'm not talkin to you - probably EVER.
But for the rest of us, HAVEN'T YOU HEARD a large number of times that one of the major things that keeps African-American men down ... is that they DID do something stupid as teens, got caught (and we all know that they "enjoyed" far greater scrutiny at turnstiles, places where people smoked things, etc.), wound up with a criminal record ... and could never get a decent job after that.
Yes, it's probably way more complicated, but I believe that there is a considerable amount of truth in those 25 or so words!!
So, pray tell - how is Mario WORSE than somebody who screwed up a little when s/he was 15-25, say?!
OK. It's easy to say the obvious - he WAS "a mature man" - who "should have known better." ... BUT - without for a second suggesting this is exculpatory - who among us (VERY FEW!) know what it is to be idolized?!
I *can* see how that might lead one to take a liberty - and then more or bigger ones.
Point is - we ALL are less (decently) human if we say, "Just push the flush button."
14
What goes around comes around.
Just look at this guy - his appearance is deplorable, he epitomizes an unhealthy pallor, looks like he is miserably unhappy, dresses like a disrespectful and treats people like crap.
Hopefully his second act will quickly close!
12
I have to disagree with Scott's assessment that focuses on Batali's looks instead of of his acts. Go look in the mirror. If you read the article or were familiar with Mr. Batali, you would know he is pretty well liked by most folks than disliked, as he is quite charming, and helpful to many that he associates with in the business world. And he has had very successful television shows in which he is an on-camera host. Not everyone has to be Brad Pitt or George Clooney to be successful or a contributor to society.
14
Mr. Batali,
Please find a different outlet for your talents, or do something good for the world.
29
So sorry for this Easter ham.
Not.
9
These people kill me. Perplexed,overwhelmed and struggling. How hard is it to grasp that you can no longer grope,grab insult and assault women and get away with it? Pure disingenuousness on their part. They know exactly what they did and need to stop boring us with their tedious excuses.
90
Read the article, he has not made any excuses. Batali made a statement saying he did act in a horrible way similar to the acts described by the anonymous accusers. No excuses.
2
Reading through many of these statements I am reminded of an old saying, "Scratch a liberal, find a Nazi."
What a bunch of self-righteous and intolerant people posting here. I didn't have the stomach to read them all, but is there at least one in there advocating the death penalty for Mario.
And I'll bet every one of you thinks of yourself as a paragon of virtue.
22
One does not have to be a paragon of virtue to argue what level of punishment is appropriate in this case.
11
Sexual harassment AND stealing $ Millions in tips systematically from employees?
No, Mario Batali needs to sit down and shut up, until further notice.
95
If you want to get a glimpse of his creepiness, watch, or re-watch Spain: On the Road Again. He subject Gywneth Paltro to constant innuendo, it comes across as sophomoric, but given recent accounts, reeks a bit worse.
http://www.pbs.org/food/shows/spain-on-the-road-again/
10
And -- justly or unjustly -- the witch hunt goes on. All facets of life are permanent, or even eternal, struggle between Good and Evil, including the world of food industry (I avoid intentionally the term haute cuisine).
2
"I am not forgiving. I can’t get past it. I just cannot..."
With friends like Anthony Bourdain, who needs enemies?
John Curtas
Eating Las Vegas
18
Curious. What would you do/say if you discovered a very good friend was a sex predator? Would that be OK with You? How would you handle ii?
7
I just became aware that Batali used to confiscate the tip money of his service employees . So , in addition to his being an abusive drunkard and sexual predator , he was also a rotten low-life thief . Hit the road, Jack , and don't you come back no more , no more , no more !
51
I'm not thrilled with the man or his food...but the tips are taken was like 4-5% of outrageously large tips..tips they just don't get from working else.
First thing he needs to ditch is the orange, the crocs, and the sleazy ponytail.
18
What do you look like? Crocs are worn by food industry professionals, as well as nurses, or people with diabetes...
2
Gwyneth could've given him a makeover on Goop.
1
i find this article extremely tone deaf and troubling. men like mr batali can't imagine a world where they aren't the center of attention and that's exactly the problem. how about an in depth article about the women he harassed? are their careers back on track since coming forward? what are they doing now? I have a lot more interest in their stories than his.
109
Yes!! Let's hear from them for a change. Although probably not printable.
7
Really excellent and penetrating writing by Kim Severson. From the article:
"He still has legions of fans and colleagues who admire and respect his generosity, culinary knowledge and charisma."
That's the damnable thing about those who have conducted this abuse: They are creative. On the other hand (there is always another hand), Christine Muhlke is out to take advantage from the kill:
"Ms. Muhlke, a former editor at The New York Times Magazine and Bon Appétit, said her advice to any accused chef would be the same: 'Leave the field,' she said, 'and let us do the work needed to build something better.'”
The "build something better" is a giveaway.
Apart from the field of expertise... food, writing, producing or whatever, is the destruction of trust that the guilty person has caused between him or her and those who were, or will be, in business with them.
If there is any new venture, Mario Batali, as for all those others, has to create trust. Given their past deeds, trust is exceedingly difficult to establish, despite all their creativity, which is, no doubt, extraordinary.
7
Thanks for the link to the Spotted Pig article. I had missed it. That Mario Batali groped and kissed an unconscious woman is beyond the pale. November to April is not exactly atonement, is it?
I used to see Mr. Bitali on his scooter near Babbo and tromping through Chelsea Market in his Crocs. I used to nod and smile (not that he knew me, just being neighborly).
And now? I might point and think "Spotted!.....Pig!"
23
Where is the atonement scale?
I worked in NYC restaurants for close to 30 years. I had one nice boss during that time.
There's a raging coke prodded, over salting , over drinking macho type of male chef in many , not all, restaurants.
I'm afraid Mario is one of those . Alcoholic and skirt chasing.
Sorry pal, over it.
32
In all of this, I feel badly for Gwyneth Paltrow. She was closely associated and worked with both Mario AND Harvey Weinstein. Poor Gwyneth!
4
Boo boo. Behold my crocodile tears.
I believe Paltrow is as shallow, hollow and self-serving as they come. Not to mention a bit dumb.
23
OMG, do you think that’s why GoopGirl went off the deep end?! (Answer:no. She was already seriously goofy.)
7
You cannot be serious! Gwyneth is a nut all on her own. She has a lot of talent, and she mistakes that for wisdom. Bad call, but hardly atypical of Hollywood celebrities, who are often treated as such by their adoring fans. As Tevye sings in Fiddler on the Roof, "when you're rich, they think you really know."
4
I thought Americans loved comebacks? Maybe he will do something great. He should be given the chance. A lot of talent there going to waste right now.
5
He’s choice to retire is great idea, there are so many more deserving people.
18
How good a chef are you?
After dinner at Eately I saw his majesty eating with his family. I gave him a note complementing him on his restaurants and the stores (Eately was new then). We got significant state downs from his security as well as a discussion not to bother him again. We mistakenly went there the next night and security came out the the woodwork to observe us during dinner. Then I read how rude he is in general so the stories don’t surprise me.
21
Mario Batali, had his day in the sun and now he's on the back burner trying to make a comeback. His disgrace was sad and shocking but the punishment well deserved. First, he may need some professional help. Then, he needs to try giving back to the community the lessons he learned from his bad behavior and offenses against women. Charitable and volunteer work should be at the top of his menu.
8
I used to admire Mr. Batali for his culinary knowledge , although I did find him to be insufferably arrogant . I suppose his sexual scandals had a lot to do with that characteristic of his . He surely needs lots of psychotherapy to help make him a safe person , and until that happens I would not consider patronizing any of his establishments.
11
Moving to the Amalfi Coast sounds like a terrific idea. I'd do it myself if I could afford to.
10
This is the pattern of behavior that Donald Trump's "presidency" allows the arrogant to feel they deserve.
Humility is a virtue in all of the major religions; arrogance is something for fools and tyrants.
14
Personally, I feel the women Mr. Batali molested in any capacity are the only ones who can forgive him - that would be my starting point toward redemption.
20
The absence of his food palate and knowledge would be a loss? Really? It's FOOD, not a cure for cancer or the solution to climate change. Humankind will survive the loss of Mario Batali's food knowledge.
116
Outstanding comment!
5
Ridiculous that this guy is having to take so much heat and leave a career, did he kill someone, no, did he start a war, no.....
This is gotten completely out of hand.
4
He is lucky no one has pressed charges,if they had ? he could have been looking at jail time.Ridiculous huh ? He has millions in the bank,plenty of people his age would love to retire,some are fortunate and have others less so.He should count his blessings and if he wants to make amends ? Use some of his wealth on those less fortunate.
3
I wonder if the women he molested feel as you do. I wonder how their careers suffered. I wonder if those women left the industry instead of having to answer very difficult questions.
6
Rich. Came from a rich family. Has more money than the majority of people will make in 5 lifetimes. Pursued a completely esoteric profession with oodles of success. Acted reprehensibly at the same time. Now he's paying the price.
Really no sympathy here. He'll be fine.
29
Boo hoo. Men like Batali should do time for what they’ve done. These powerful men harass and terrorize women who have neither the resources nor the opportunities to just leave their jobs. They’re bullies and all bullies are the same, they behave abominably until they get caught and then cry about their sad lives.
21
On the side is Batali, who in this article seems more concerned with how he'll make his comeback than he does with doing the work on himself that would need to precede any attempt at a return to his prior position within the industry. On one side are people like Bordain and Muhlke who seem feel Batali's career should be over with no path to redemption.
There has to be some reasonable middle ground. Before Batali can return to the public sphere, he needs to work on himself. No telling if that will take six months or six years. He has to exhibit some recognition of his wrong doing and some evidence that he has moved beyond his old behavior.
In the meantime, there is a lot he can do. The work he's doing with refugees sounds like a good start. There are so many more things a man with his expertise can do for the public good. There should be a path to redemption for a man like Batali, but it shouldn't be easy and his acceptance shouldn't be presumed. It must be earned.
6
He could go work in his parents' sandwich shop for a few years or at least until he understands that Crocs are not okay in public.
9
I used to greatly admire Mr. Batali (in general I am not a fan of most things that the food network has to offer). For him to not let some time go by before putting into play some of the ideas he is floating will just seem a move(s)orchestrated to rebrand/facilitate forgiveness (even if he is sincere).
Of more vital importance for a next step should be an examination not of what to do next but what created the behavior that lead to his fall from grace.
11
The reality of the movement is the power of the public who individually get decide they will buy a product or service by someone like Mario Batali. The abusers no longer get a free pass on their actions. As far as due process goes, the bar to conviction is so high, seldom do I read of punishment for horrible offenses.
4
We are living in a strange new world. This gender war must end! Kings and emperors had concubines and still ruled the world. Martin Luter King was no saint either. These women coming out offended left and right were no saints either!
They should have forcefully reacted to these threats right then and there, unless, of course, they were benefitting from their association with rich and powerful men.
4
One way to think about women who “benefit” from being associated with rich and powerful men is to ask whether or not it is fair to expect a person to risk their professional ambitions to confront a rich and powerful person who has considerably more leverage than the person who is harassed or abused. This is how this culture perpetuates itself. We expect the victims to risk giving up everything for a cause that they all too often will lose anyway. It’s unreasonable to expect that of victims.
35
“Should have forcefully reacted (sic)”? Tell that to the unconscious woman Batali assaulted, in his own restaurant.
Blame the victims? What century do you live in?
26
So your boss grabs you - are you going to react forcefully or are you going to be scared that you'll be fired if you do? Factor in that you may be undereducated or living paycheck to paycheck.
Nuns, prostitutes, and everyone in between can be a victim of sexual assault or workplace harassment. Whether or not you're a saint has nothing to do with it.
Empathy for victims would be helpful.
3
I have been a home cook interested in the food scene and cooking for over forty years. Mario Batali has never interested me. I don't think a calculated humanitarian food campaign on Batali's part would peak my interest. In fact, just the opposite.
11
it seems that not only is Anthony Bourdain a hypocritic (in regard to bad behavior), but also a really bad friend.
11
Really? I don’t like Bourdain and the whole foul-mouthed “bro” thing he does, but I think it’s worth noting that — regardless of all that macho posing he does — no one has accused him of sexual harassment or assault. I suppose that could still happen, but on the other hand it is just possible that he actually respects women. Maybe. Unless they are vegetarians.
16
I believe Bourdain is a pretty well known (and to a certain extent, self promoted) bad boy. His history includes drug addiction, lots of binge drinking, and a couple of divorces... Good for him...he is recovering and happy. the only judgement I make...is maybe he shouldn't be making judgements.
1
So what would you do upon discovering a really good friend had groped/forcibly kissed an unconscious woman? Do you know what groping IS? Since it is obvious there will be no jail time for Batali, isn't the distancing of good friends, the loss of a reputation, public ridicule and the temporary loss of a livelihood right and proper?
2
There needs to be significant consequences for sexual assault. These men have been most fortunate in life with family, health, money. Now they should do volunteer work and count themselves lucky they are not in jail.
27
So sad, that now people start to feel bad for these men who have been abusive. Very narrow rhetoric are those comments in which people tell how pleasant of a person he is or that he has been unjustly persecuted.
Even some people think that ME TOO-campaign has gone too far. Really. All these years that women have silently swallowed their secrets of abuse . Now finally we have stepped forward and are just asking for normal human rights .
Mr. Batali has enough money to start his new life in Amalfi or where ever he thinks is nicer for him than in US. Nevertheless he still needs to get humble and apologize. Bad Karma hovers around him otherwise even in Amalfi or where ever he goes.
51
Is there a second act for Mario? There better be!
1
Keep on walking Mario. We are done with you.
28
What I have never read is whether or not he also treated males with disrespect and contempt? Not sexually, but in other ways. Or was his oppressive behavior directed exclusively at females?
This does not change anything one iota, but I'm curious.
10
See my comment .I saw him chasing his male employee down the street
3
I feel like this entire "will he or won't he" intrigue story was crafted by his publicists and it's a bad look for the NY Times. But while I don't know much about the allegations, the "getting drunk at his own restaurants and making lewd propositions at 3am" don't immediately seem to rise to the level of Harvey-ness that's the benchmark terrible human being-ness. I'm not hearing about threats, about manipulations, about career-ending machinations against every woman in his orbit. He is clearly obsessed with the sound of his own voice, being looked at on camera and people paying a lot of attention to him, so let people vote with their remote controls and their wallets. In the meantime, he appears to be quite rich and quite smart - the perfect combination for retiring on the coastline of Italy playing bocce ball, writing a tell-all, and getting wine-wasted by 3pm. Maybe he could donate his pasta sauce profits to grope therapy centers.
9
The original “official” apology/PR response included a recipe for cinnamon rolls. I thought that was unintentionally hilarious and indicative of just out of whack Batali’s head had got.
34
If he had any sense of humor the recipe would have been for humble pie. Two cups shame, one cup regret, a tablespoon of bitterness, a cup toasted nuts. Place in a blind-baked crust made of equal parts contrition, self-flagellation and humility, with enough Holy Water to gather it into a ball.
13
So much of Batali’s brand/empire was about him being a passionate food guy who seemed approachable. Not sure someone known as man of taste can come back from something as sordid as this. Take for example in news. Ryan Lizza was mentioned on the SMML, fired from The New Yorker for sexual misconduct but reinstated by CNN after a brief suspension. However, he’s now dating someone 20 years younger than him and Rolling Stone will only take him on as freelance because female staffers are creeped out by him and don’t want him in the office. Because of all these factors, I don’t take his news judgement seriously anymore and won’t watch him on TV or read any future articles he writes. Same reasoning goes for Batali. I wouldn’t want to eat in his restaurants knowing what he’s capable of and the severe discomfort he brought to many women.
12
I recently left a manager position at a popular midtown east restaurant in which I experienced the appalling behavior of a chef who felt free to yell and demean my employees. He made the women cry and berated gay men. Staff would come to me when they had questions about the menu because they were too scared to approach the chef. Meetings started out and ended on negative notes. I left because of his temper tantrum and yelling toward me on a couple of incidents, he felt this was okay to do toward me - someone who was part of the management team.
Chef's are in very powerful positions and often abuse that power, sometimes their word is the final word. I requested a meeting with the owners but sadly, they were aware of his behavior and turned a blind eye. I have very little sympathy for this kind of abuse.
40
Thank you for sharing your story and shedding some light on the day to day behind the scene perspective for those not in the industry. Sometimes it feels like, “well he can cook, so, he must be a great guy”
3
Glad I can shed some light on this issue since each restaurant environment is different. Abusive behavior comes in many forms, whether overt or hidden, they all fall on staff shoulders. I left this place without having a job lined up and that was hard, but I was lucky to have solid experience under my belt and was positive that something would come my way. Within a couple of weeks I did find a new place to thrive in, thrive being the operative word here as well as growth and respect. I don't understand why chefs are treated like gods in this industry, truly a joke and lets be honest, it gets boring fast. For any restaurant to survive, you need more than just some fancy ingredients. You need a happy staff that includes both front and back of house employees and when they come together it truly is wonderful sight to see. It baffles me when I see employers resort to behaviors that would cause people to exit quickly. It saddened me when my best left because I knew they couldn't handle the abuse anymore (btw, these are people who had worked under these conditions for a few years). And it was only a matter of time before it was directed at me, I could feel it coming which is disgusting in itself. On my last day and I said to the owner, "The best thing you have going for this place is your staff!" As for my new place, it has been a most welcome challenge, especially when the owners and the partners are excited about what you can bring to their restaurant. But I digress :)
5
I have always been confused by his popularity... great chef, obviously, but I think he is pompous, his dress is ridiculous, and he always seems to be patronizing...
14
A drunken chef loses his job or career due to drunken behaviour, now that's novel. He's not the first nor the last.
10
Shame on Kim S. & the NY Times for these words, "Several powerful men, in several industries, have had their worlds kicked out from under them as the #MeToo movement has gathered momentum." The use of the word "powerful" is an admission of understanding that the power differential is at the heart of this issue. Their worlds have been "kicked out from under them?" Are you kidding me? No similar phrase to acknowledge that the women involved had more than financial & twitter fallout. I expected more from this platform.
49
Shame on Kim S. & the NY Times for these words, "Several powerful men, in several industries, have had their worlds kicked out from under them as the #MeToo movement has gathered momentum." The use of the word "powerful" is an admission of understanding that the power differential is at the heart of this issue....
[ Perfect. ]
5
Mario Batali was accused or "outed" just months ago. What is he doing attempting a come back? Someone should give him the advice that his assaults on women even if only one or two, is a sign that he has a serious problem. And he needs to seek psychiatric help to get to the bottom of it. Usually, with predators, it's not one or two, nor even three....there are many more who have not come forth.
Mario Batali, needs to face the truth and learn to set ego aside. I for one, will never, ever watch a show with him in it, go to any of his restaurants. He told us all who he is. Yes, there is redemption it only for a truly repentant soul! Attempting a come back is not.....repentance!
Humility and truth goes a long way, Mario.
14
This is one time where the sexual part of the harassment is only one small part. I have told this story but it merits retelling. I used to live right atop Mr Bateli's restaurant, Po. One late morning I heard a commotion in the street. I saw Mr. Batali in his whites chasing a male employee in the street. They were racing in circles while Mr Batali shouted,"I told you not to do that! I told you not to give out that number" over and over. Mr Batali is a bully. That's it. Bullies are mean to those with less power. Women? Well of course. It doesn't matter. He may be sexist. He may not. But he's a bully and I happen to think that's more important.
Was he drunk? I wouldn't know. But when I drink, or my friends, we don't chase and threaten others. A bully.
26
It would seem that first steps are entering alcohol and drug use programs. Seeking counseling. Not consulting friends, advisors and mentors on how to get back in the limelight. Mario, time to move on, learn to be a mensch, not a member of the boys’ club of chefs.
If only, you had stepped away from business, stopped taking cash, apologized to staff and the women you harassed, returned tips with interest to staff, set up an HR department with teeth, instituted a practice of health insurance for staff and families, it might have been a different story. But you didn’t.
94
In a country of 350 million people there are many talented chefs, talk show hosts, TV journalists, movie producers and presidential hopefuls who can more than fill the shoes of a Batali, a Lauer, a Rose and a Trump.
As long as we support these so-called experts and extoll their celebrity they will believe they deserve to be in the all-consuming, fame machine called Television.
As anyone who has lived long enough knows we are all replaceable.
Some deserve to be replaced, Batali et al are good examples of those who do.
39
I won’t judge him because he has already been judged, and leave it at that. He has hit his alcoholic bottom, it seems, and there’s no turning back nor will restyling his image help him to achieve the psychic change that is necessary for him to accept full responsibility. His ego is still at play, scheming a comeback after a period of designer volunteer work. If you are not willing to change everything after a bottom like that, recovery is much less likely, quite impossible actually. And a complete psychic change to achieve true acceptance and consciousness is rarer these days than honesty in government.
26
I had the opportunity to have a candid conversation with Mr. Batali two days ago in Northern Michigan. There were no reporters, only a few people present; no reason to grandstand or try to further an agenda. It happened as an accidental meeting while I was drinking a beer with my wife at the next table of a brew pub. I own a home in Michigan in the same small town where Mr. Batali owns his vacation home and I have had an opportunity to have a few words with him over the years and to have seen him at many events in this small town. He is a gracious person, patiently takes photos with anyone that asks, answers cooking questions, and so forth.
It is easy for a person to stand back and judge, but who among us is qualified to do so in the case of Mr. Batali, including me? But what I can say is I saw and conversed with a person who is truly remorseful and regrets what happened. It is astounding to me how quickly people will condemn someone that has not been brought up on legal charges, but only accused of poor and distasteful behavior.
I believe in redemption. And I believe that humans can have a revelation that can change their behavior overnight. There are many examples of people who have done so and I think Mr. Batali in in that camp.
37
Just because someone has not been brought up on legal charges does not mean that he did not engage in illegal behavior, only that he wasn't arrested for it. Like so many others were not, including, quite possibly, our President.
29
While I am not sure that I would have the same level of patience and empathy had Batali caused me or anyone I love - personal pain - I certainly do believe that people with talent can and should come back if they are remorseful and can use "their powers for good." He also needs to apologize to the people he hurt, shamed and wronged. If he did that - directly and unequivocally - and the women could accept his apology - then he could start with a clean slate (or plate?) and reverse some of the loss. In a perfect world. he would build a culinary institute dedicated to diversity, and spread that message of excellence and teaching worldwide. None of us is perfect, and all of us deserve the opportunity to apologize in a meaningful way and change the world for the better. To slink off in silence and shame makes no one the winner, I think.
7
A "a decades-long pattern of abusive behavior" is not redeemed by a moment of remorse that is at least 50% regret at being exposed, and another 25% frustration at having damaged his career. (Hint: "I don't recall my decades of abuse" is not remorse.)
It's nice that you get to rub shoulders with someone famous. But maybe in order to judge Mr. Batali's redemption, you should talk to the people whose careers he stomped on and whose personal lives he threatened.
48
More power to him, so to speak. I am sick how this witchhunting has destroyed so many valuable careers with the too-eager help of the media, to their everlasting shame. I have never seen such Yellow Journalism in my lifetime, apart from Murdoch publications. It's as if the Witches of Salem have turned into the Puritans, and are pursuing any man they can with Satanic glee, ironically, to crucify them publicly, to shame them as if we were in a new Victorian age. It's time to stop them. If there's any legitimate claim of abuse, pursue it legally. Propositions are not abuse. Ever. There's no moral or ethical value in this crusade, and the media must stop supporting it. Everyone is not guilty until proven innocent. I just wish more of these men would fight back as they should. True sexual harassment is a terrible thing, and that is why there are already protections against it, are there not?
13
"If there's any legitimate claim of abuse, pursue it legally."
Tell that to the women who tried doing that with Harvey Weinstein.
10
ENOUGH! It IS all abuse? Women have been abused with words, propositions, physically, threatened their employment, etc. for hundreds if not thousands of years. And you whine about this recent fight back from women being a witch hunt after mostly rich, powerful men have been guilty of this for so long without consequence? Take a long hard look at yourself in the mirror.
34
People like Batali have used their fame and wealth and pushy personalities to fulfill their desires and fantasies, often at the expense of others.
A proposition may not equal abuse, but if that proposition is coming from your powerful, sweaty, overweight boss, well I say it certainly could be.
If you think that the existing protections against "true" sexual harassment are sufficient, then you are not basing your conclusions on reality.
15
Not satisfied to reap the cold cash from all the ka-ching machines he's created or bought into over the years, he looks for any way he can to be back in the public eye. No television, no face on the product, no public glad-handing in the restaurants and at Eatalys the world over, or, in other words, no oxygen for that enormous ego. As other writers point out, even if one is disinclined to believe (or consider serious) the very believable charges of abuse, the fact that he admittedly confiscated tips (tips!) should be enough reason to say that this guy has had his 15 minutes. Time's up.
82
one commenter notes: "'MeToo' lynch mob justice must be rejected. ...The entire MeToo movement is becoming a cauldron of endless questionable accusations. It has turned into a man-hating and man-shaming movement, which is doomed to fail."
This reminds me of the 1950s and 60s when black people were told to "take things slowly" in advocating for greater civil and human rights. Women have been treated ABYSMALLY--in private and public spheres--FOREVER, and the MeToo movement is redressing that. Men, in particular, may not like being judged quickly and harshly, but TimesUp, women are tired of waiting! The movement may not be perfect, and it may not always be fair, but that's not surprising given the outrage that's been stored up for so long. As for Mario Batali and other Masters of the Universe who miss their seats of power and wish to return in a few months, they've missed the point entirely. It's not about your career and your business, but how you TREAT other human beings. If Batali wants to pass the gates of Rehabilitation, he has a lot of very painful soul-searching to do, and that takes place--if it does at all--over the course of years...
167
Powerful and beautifully written. Thank you.
24
^THIS. A thousand times, this.
6
Must be nice after sexually harassing, groping and abusing some of his employees he can plot a comeback or maybe just move to the Amalfi Coast.
No he should go away and never come back. Or maybe open soup kitchens in poverty stricken inner city and rural areas across the U.S. God knows he can afford it.
51
Seriously. How do you know he was not the one to be groped ? Were you there?
1
He has never claimed such a thing to my knowledge. Surely, he would have mentioned that if it were the case.
Mario went to Christie Quinn for crisis management advice?? I can't imagine worse counsel since Faust turned to Mephistopheles.
18
This story completely centers Batali, almost as if he is the victim, when in fact he is the predator. The author barley even mentions Mr Batali's victims.
Batali never directly apologized to his victims. He hardly even admitted fault. And yet now he wants to skip straight to the end of a redemption story? Please.
Put in work that deserves redemption, or just retire quietly with your millions of dollars.
143
I've watched his show numerous times. I noticed something that should have alarmed viewers: his poor kitchen hygenie habits. Handling raw vegatables and sald greens after you've handled raw meat should have been the signal to the network executives to either have a long talk with him about that or to pull his show from the air. I wonder why making lude remarks to a woman outweighs the possiblity of losing one's life to food posioning? With both issues at hand, please stop this guy from getting another life on air or in the restaurant business.
11
First Things First: He needs to sober up first and stay sober for a long period, one day at a time.
16
From the article: "Several powerful men, in several industries, have had their worlds kicked out from under them as the #MeToo movement has gathered momentum."
Interesting choice of words, considering the profound impact these "powerful men" had on the economic and psychological well-being of their female employees. Are any of Batali's former waitresses able to weigh their future career options the way he can? Any of them considering retiring to the Amalfi coast? My guess would be no.
159
what a tough bunch! No mercy, no second chances. As far as I know no one was killed. My feelings on most of these chefs are, they are all over rated. In fact I'm not a pro but in the estimation of a lot of people I cook better than most of them.
Don't get me started on the cost of eating at these over priced places either.
But please lets not lose the ability to forgive and hope that some of these
predators can't change.
2
I knew you were a man before I saw your name. No mercy, no second chances? Of course not! Do you have any idea how much women have been told to stifle, to let it pass, to get over it, boys will be boys, etc. etc.? We have been forced to grant second and third and hundreds of chances to men who knew they were untouchable. Well, now they're not, and it's about time. I'm so done with this, and with them. I enjoyed cancelling my most recent reservation at Babbo. They will not change until they are forced to change, and Mario Batali may not have to; not every predator can afford to escape his accusers by moving to, oh, where? The Amalfi Coast? Stand and look your victims in the eye! You, too, Mr. Blake. It's not about whether or not it's worth it to dine in a Batali restaurant. That's the decision of the diner. But to be a victim of the chef or the owner? That's a crime.
25
Ciao, Mario.
24
Why is the NYT giving him press? Question MB's investors maybe?
12
This guy always grossed me out.
15
Was it the pony tail, the knee-length shorts or the Crocs?
5
True humility is a beautiful, difficult achievement. It takes effort to got there. Batali isn’t even close. Take, for example, his idea about doing good deeds in Rwanda. That’s a fine cause, but why there? Something about Batali’s proposed act of contrition rings false to me. It’s too grandiose. It’s him trying too hard to cover all the PC Big Issues in one go (refugees, Africa, genocide), with plenty of media coverage. Moreover, it makes him, in his own words, the room rather than the wallpaper in the room. May I suggest that he look for something closer to home, where he can make a difference without constantly seeking the limelight? There are so many training programs here in the US that he could contribute to, whether it’s hands-on food service training or business education. He could remold himself into a mentor. But thst’s not going to happen in one grand moment of enlightenment, with a ray of light shooting down from the heavens and a herald of angels blowing trumpets. He has to work for it. Prove himself.
16
He need to redeem himself as a decent human being. Not just as someone that makes a great plate of pasta. Beef cheek ravioli be damned.
1
I do not pretend to know the details of how he treated his employees. I do know that many hard working chefs demand much from their staff that in todays climate could be called hostile. Unfortunately he was judged in the court of public opnion, but never commited a crime.
4
Groping an unconscious woman with witnesses around is ok with you ?
1
I loved watching the "Chew" on ABC when my daughter was napping. It was fun. Batali made it fun because he embraced food and life and drink and FLIRTING. Blurring the line is fine. Using flirting as a reason to wreck an indivual is cruel. I would love to explore the producers of the "Chew" as well as all the ABC programs. Too bad my Over the Air antenna can no longer reach an ABC signal. Have not seen an ABC program in over a year and haven't missed it.
After reading the linked article on the pigs that run The Spotted Pig, I’m so sorry that I ever spent money there. And by the way, I never thought the (horribly over-salted) food was up to much. Definitely not worth the attention it received. Ditto the Batali/Basianich restaurants I tried. Those two are very good at promoting themselves and their businesses, I guess. But they enrich themselves at the expense of their employees!
24
Yes- his food is totally over salted. Was going to say the same thing.
5
Over salted with the tears of the workers he abused and whose wages he stole.
1
And Lidia, Joe Bastianich and April Bloomfield remain silent.
Protect the bottom line at all costs. [Spotted Pig takes on a whole new meaning.]
2
I’m tired of the corporatized restaurant industry, celebrity chefs and their over the top concoctions. What is this need to be constantly in the spotlight? It encourages bad behavior. I’ll bet Mr. Batali is not going to starve anytime soon. And, I’m sure he can work again. He now has the chance to do it simply and quietly.
17
People keep forgetting that, for years, his restaurants had illegally confiscated part of their employees tips to supplement their profits. In 2012, Batali and Basianich had to repay over $5 million that they had stolen from about 1100 of their employees.
To me, that's just as bad as sexual harassment.
435
Nope. I didn't forget. Good riddance to him.
14
I'm glad you've commented about this, i've posted comments in the past regarding this issue: he's settled, twice, i believe out of court, to resolve these class action suits. Not a peep in the papers regarding this, nor his dangerous kitchen hygeine habits, handling raw veggies and salad greens after he's handled raw meat. This guy deserves a trip to the slammer,; i'd like to seehim pull that in the jail house kitchen.
15
That's cause you're male.
4
Batali also was forced to settle a wage (tips) theft lawsuit for 5.25 million. The industry does not want or need you back.
205
I admire Batalli's rise to prominence in the NY restaurant business and television world. He seems a very determined hardworking competent talented entertaining fellow. I lived on Cornelia Street across from Po in the 90s, and would often see the orange croc'ed one walking down the sidewalk carrying something that would be cooked later that day in the restaurant. I have read the Eater/NYT accounts of abuses perpetrated over many years. Apparently he was a great boss as I would imagine, but he also was a terrible boss to those he targeted with groping, drunken jerkiness, etc. I could imagine he could change his behavior, but the distasteful memory might ruin the culinary experience for many.
8
On the face of it, the idea of a "celebrity chef" is pretty dumb. Cooking is a hard job and as honorable as any other honest work, but the cult of celebrity is repulsive.
"Celebrity school teacher"? Maybe.
Say good-night, Mario.
92
Bravo! I love "Celebrity School Teacher".
I have a special, warm corner of my heart for the men and women who helped me through my first years of life, to expand my brain and reward my curiosity. Although I love to cook and to eat, I would never say that about a chef.
Thanks for the perspective view.
2
He hasn't learned anything. Notice the focus is on himself and how he can have a second act. There's a lot of meism and not a lot of remorse. He's sorry he got exposed but that's all he's sorry for.
The only way to ensure that real and lasting changes occur is for there to be lasting consequences. Batali was a predator and a bully. The only way for batali to be a cautionary tale is for him to continue to be shut out of the business and limelight he so loves. Otherwise the #metoo movement will have been for naught.
129
Yes, Mario Batali has contributed greatly to food, just as Harvey Weinstein has contributed greatly to cinema. These are givens. If they committed crimes, then they should be punished. But, they should be allowed to have their day in court. "MeToo" lynch mob justice must be rejected.
The entire MeToo movement is becoming a cauldron of endless questionable accusations. It has turned into a man-hating and man-shaming movement, which is doomed to fail. Asking for equal pay is not the same thing as crying about a producer telling you that you looked pretty in a dress.
And yes, that's where some of the strident MeToo people want to take this. They want to control the dynamics of male-female relationships.
Look at some of the absurdities since MeToo reared its confused and confusing head. Uma Thurman's filmed stunt car drive had nothing to do with the fact that she is female. Aziz Ansari's date night being picked apart as if it was a laboratory experiment was pathetic. Matt Damon being attacked by a circle of screaming people for saying that not all men are pigs was a highlight. You know what, he's right, not all men are pigs.
Second chances for all? Yes, absolutely. Especially Batali, even Weinstein. Why? Because we are better than any society that refuses to express forgiveness.
8
What has Batali apologized for that would deserve forgiveness? He barely even admitted fault.
10
"Asking for equal pay is not the same thing as crying about a producer telling you that you looked pretty in a dress."
Wait, wha? They are not the same thing?
Mansplaining is real.
6
Typical man's response. Apologize first and then we can talk about forgiveness. Not all men are pigs, Mr. Evan, but Mario is. Believe the women and men who are brave enough to say #MeToo and No More. We have been silent for a long time because most of us cannot afford to escape to the Amafi Coast. We need our jobs and so we will put up with whatever abuse is heaped at us. Finally, as the pendulum swings back to the center, finally we are believed, finally men are a little bit scared. Good. Now you know how it feels.
10
Go to Amalfi! Get back to your roots. Starting cooking in some small place like you had at Po' and just know what you did was unacceptable. Spend your mornings on the water and afternoons and nights in the kitchen.
14
Why is this even a story?
The subject granted no interview. He remains where he was when the truth came out and was received as it should have been received, with everyone dropping him. He's been Lance Armstrong'ed, and I have as much interest in hearing from him, or about him, as I do dear Lance.
If the NYT wrote stories about where-are-they-now-and-what-are-they-thinking pigs who got outed as pigs in recent months, there would be room for nothing else in the paper. Wake me up when Mario saves someone's life or donates a fortune to the needy (without drawing attention to it himself) or even manages to lose 100 pounds (that might make a good read in the Health and Fitness section), but otherwise, no. Whatever status they may have had as newsworthy people is long gone. And I would like to hear from folks who still patronize his restaurants. What, on earth, are they thinking?
63
"The man behaved badly at times. That’s not ok. But a professional death sentence? Perennial public shaming? C’mon. If the #MeToo movement is to have credibility and durability, it must also have proportionality."
Perrennial - lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time. (Don't think 4 months fits that definition, Chris.)
And yes, since he did behave badly, what do you propose his penance be? I was raised Catholic and I remember quite clearly how saying sorry is not enough. You have to promise to change your ways in the future, make amends for past behavior and do your penance. I doubt Batali has done any of these.
If men are going to have any credibility and durability, they're going to have to stop knee-jerk defending the wrongdoers while not mentioning a word in their posts about the victims. (Or is your three word phrase "that's not ok" your attempt to grapple with the complexities of sexual harassment in the workplace and its lasting effects on both the professional and personal lives of women?)
30
Cook--
beautifully and powerfully said, thank you!
9
He should NOT get off stage. He should cook and let the public decide if they like his food and we should stop all of this gratuitous and condescending commentary
4
I wish these men were imprisoned instead of ostracized, as you can be released from prison after serving your sentence, but social shunning in these cases seem to be forever. I'm not excusing anyone's behavior, but MURDERERS stand a better chance of being accepted back into society than these men. Is this the way we truly want to treat these people? Is this what you get when you drunkenly kiss someone that happens to get caught on camera, or have sex with a woman that then decides she's uncomfortable with it? We can't paint everyone with the same brush, and we need to have a path back into the light for these people, or there's going to be a big backlash.
7
The drunken woman you speak of—she was unconscious. I can’t think of a more disgusting human being.
Good riddance.
9
from a look at many of the self-rightheous moral critics in the comment section, i wd say that not much has changed from the days of Hawthorne's Scarlet Letter. I can imagine this moralizing high fatlutin tone and content to be part of the way Eurooeans talk about this subject, but American was birthed by pain the bum Puritans and it seems even when it is secular it retains the Puritan stridence and know it all condemnation of wrong doers.
4
This is proportionality. He abused his underlings for decades. There was documented evidence of it. He confessed to some of this, although the details conveniently slipped his mind. He is reaping what he sowed.You do not automatically earn a free comeback, just because disgrace is painful. No one can force people to buy his food. No one can force people to work for him.
25
Mario is not concentrating on his 'problem" at all. For decades, he harassed and possibly abused his workers. He wants to travel to Rwanda or Greece and work with refugees? I'm laughing.. so phony! All these abusers just do NOT get it.That is NOT going to change your character. Mario needs to spend an enormous amount of time re-educating himself to what harassment is- what he did that was so over the line. What civility in the workplace means. Question why Mario did not 'respect" woman enough to NOT harass them? Every human being deserves respect- so why Mario did you think it was ok to treat woman without respect? What is the true NEW meaning of 'masculinity? Mario needs to focus his time and money on sexual harassment issues. Work with women to make a difference in this field. Don't be "phony" and try to "pretend". Really re-learn the importance of respect, civility and the horrors of sexual harassment.
11
The MeToo adherents need to stop casting their wide net. Complimenting a woman's new sweater is not sexual harassment. This is an interpersonal workplace courtesy and part of the plate of niceties that make a job pleasant. We all know what sexual harassment is. It's using power to abuse and threaten and hold out the promise of a job or advancement.
Therefore, the desire on the part of some women to redefine all female-male relationships is 100% wrong. There are human dynamics at play in all situations.
Judeo-Christian redemption is part of the fabric of our lives and must be allowed in all cases, including Mr. Batali's.
99% of the people on the planet will never be friends with him, know him casually, or even meet him; therefore, it doesn't matter what they think. It doesn't matter to any of the accused if the world forgives them. And it shouldn't. What matters is what family, friends, and co-workers think.
What also matters is respect for all employees of all genders, fair pay with subsequent equal raises, and honest and open opportunities for advancement for all employees.
6
Only someone with an enormous ego would think he could “come back” so soon—which is precisely one of the things that got him into trouble to begin with.
No one is going to starve or eat a lousy meal if Batali ain’t around. Plenty of other talented people in the field.
He needs to get lost.
85
I have to say it does sound like a drinking problem, with underlying issues. None of it will go away until the firewater does.
11
Personally I think that if the article is accurate, Batali is taking the right steps. He sounds seriously reflective.
Having said that, Mario, move to the Amalfi coast!! There's just no contest as to which is better.
You can always come back in a few years after the industry and public deem it's time, but I can't imagine why you'd want to.
2
He hasn't even apologized to his victims.
8
If he is honest about changing his behavior why not let him have a second chance? This shouldn’t be a death sentence.
But, I never fully understood the whole celebrity chef phenomenon. I prefer to eat at restaurants where the focus is good food, not a multi million dollar ad campaign on a chef who probably does no day to day cooking at the restaurant. At that point, it’s just a licensed product.
5
I have curated quite a collection of cookbooks over the years; my love of cooking constantly stoked by inventive and unique recipes as well as "old favorites". I own four cookbooks by Batali. I scrolled through them the other night and realized I have cooked only two of his recipes in all the years I've owned them. My books from Hazan, Pepin, Child, DiLaurentiis, Bittman and Reichl, however, are well-worn and stained with evidence of wonderful hours spent in the kitchen.
Cooks come and go. Food remains. Food is love, not harassment.
20
I'm not familiar with his restaurants. The trend of celebrity chefs being associated with dozens of restaurants backed by big money investors is troubling enough as it stands. While the restaurant industry is renowned for low profit margins (it's really the rent, don't buy the profit margin nonsense when they're uncorking hundred dollar bottles of wine as the "affordable vino" and serving twenty dollar pasta dishes (eight dollars more for a few ounces of grilled salmon)), I suspect the investors always get paid first. And in their Wall Street-like clamor for ever increasing returns on investment, they need to constantly own more restaurants and charge ever higher prices.
But I'm a foodie who would always watch "The Chew" following other shows I like more with the volume turned low while I read articles on my laptop. And Mario Batali always struck me as an overweight slob with an overinflated ego. Never really learned anything from watching the show anyways, those run by the likes of Joanne Weir were always far more informative. "The Chew" is a Venn diagram of celebrity culture meeting chefs thinking they're actual celebrities. The banter is awful, and I doubt the actual food is much better.
8
Christine Quinn says that she give Mario a "ton of credit for reaching out to people" like herself? Because she's so wise and respected? I think not.
She probably has an ego as large as Batali's and her words are as empty as those she used as a political figure.
The help Mario B needs could take years to result in any redemption, not four months.
31
Perhaps she was referring to the fact that he reached out to her when others wouldn't because she is gay? That fact had been used against her at times while seeking office. Perhaps he was just being nice. Can't people just be nice anymore? I never was a Batali fan but I feel that he is just one public figure. How many are out there who are still boys behaving badly. We will never know.
1
G,
People would not reach out to Quinn because she was gay? I've never
heard that and do not believe it. She had political power in Manhattan, not Alabama or Iran, so I imagine lots of people including bigots sucked up to her big time.
3
I count myself as someone who knew Mario quite early on in his arrival on the New York scene, patronized his first few restaurants regularly, and knew him well back when he was solo in a kitchen.
I have since heard some stories I found upsetting, involving people (wait staff, kitchen staff) I knew at the time, though I never myself saw anything that gave me pause. I did, though, see a lot of drinking and what I might call "hierarchical" restaurant behavior. Kitchens were then and still are fairly "feudal." A lot of this is recounted in Bill Buford's excellent book "Heat," though my relationship with Mario dates well before that book.
My advice would follow much of what others have written. Mario is a great chef but also fluidly morphed into a charming television presence. He has already ditched the TV persona and, if he is comfortable being a cook, he could easily go back to a restaurant and many people would happily eat his food.
Mario also has the resources to bank terrific female chefs (as he already has) and stay out of the kitchen and do his share to advance the careers of women in Food. Many women have found it hard to gain authority in a kitchen, and Mario could help. And, first, he has his wife and sons to think of and to serve as a role model for.
Start small and build back up through "good works." He was always willing to work long hours and very hard to build his empire and he could work even harder if he weren't drinking.
41
I believe in second chances in all but the most extreme situations. But before that, you have to show that you're sorry, that you understand that was you did was wrong, that you acknowledge the pain done to others. And a statement released by some PR agency doesn't cut it.
Showing up after four months ready to emerge victorious is in poor taste as well. The article refers to a "decades-long pattern of abusive behavior." Is it too much to expect him to back down for a year or two to think about what he has done and how he can truly change?
34
Four months of self reflection seems a little short for decades long "abusive, lewd, drunken behavior". As for a comeback, does he want to cook or does he aspire to have an empire again, (to feed his ego)? I think that if he were to move to a smaller city or small town somewhere and open a restaurant no one would object. To try to climb back to the top in NYC and become a world famous, respected chef again is unrealistic.
28
For a guy who 'can't recall' episodes in a long pattern of abusive behavior, I don't see any way forward. For decent men and women, these incidents would be burned into their memories. How can abusing a woman even be called a blind spot? Mario Batali is in some kind of dream world. I suppose he is imposing himself on people in Greece and Rwanda only because he will not be pilloried and reviled in those places. They certainly deserve better, as do the people of the Amalfi coast. I doubt if Batali would have bothered with displaced Rwandans and refugees in Greece before now. This man shouldn't bother thinking about any future until he gets honest. Just the fact that he calls his abusive behavior his 'stuff' shows how deluded he is. Wake up, Mario, and leave us to cook without you.
No such period of supposed 'deep introspection' would be taking place if the gushing tap of money and adulation hadn't been turned off. This whole thing with you, Mr. Batali, is sickening. I suggest you set up housekeeping with James Levine, another person in mind-blowing denial.
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If anything, to me "I don't recall" means "You really think I keep track of, let alone memorize, all the tail I get from my position of mighty wealth and power?!"—a veiled insult to those normal people of the world who aren't rich, well-connected jerks.
To all those who suggest Batali should just open a trattoria and cook - preposterous! To think he could do as he did at Po, when he just started out? He could never do that again. His ego is astronomical, his gluttony for the limelight and adulation insatiable. How else to explain why an overweight, greasy, slovenly clown dressed in orange Crocs, with an unkempt man bun and usually wearing shorts in all weather - SHORTS! - would be so clueless as to think he got away with his piggish behavior with women for any reason other than they were subservient to him and needed his name and influence. Books written at least a decade ago by Bill Bufour and Bourdain himself (who doth protest too much) explicitly called out the misogynist culture of Batali's kitchens and others like him. The so-called philanthropic work he's now pursuing is still all for the greater glory of Batali: cause-related marketing so he can be forgiven. Better he should be forgotten - except as a cautionary tale.
256
Ha! I did wonder about Bourdain, too, when I read those quotes. He seems pretty tone deaf, weird and egomaniacal, but perhaps I have misjudged him.
1
How truly disappointing. An icon in the food industry, and then all the relevations - really what a shame. Then a few months of silence and I'm sorry - and its how do I return? Really, what about the women who were cowed into submission, left a position in tears, etc. Not what I want to happen to my daughter - I don't know if Mario has children, but he needs to think - is it enough to say I'm sorry, and how do I get back "in". Seems too easy, given the women who received the abuse.
66
A couple of years in a soup kitchen feeding the homeless might convince me.
160
...would really depend on the soup.
2
Keep opening great restaurants. He is probably toast as a tv personality.
2
Anthony Bourdain proves once again that he's incapable of keeping a discussion of another individual focused on that person. It's always about him.
51
He’s probably guilty of it himself as well. Bourdain is ridiculous.
4
From the second news hit of accusations against Batali, people looked to AB for a comment. If he remained silent in response to his thoughts on Batali, he'd be lambasted. Focus on the real issue, Batali's actions and words in the wake of this scandal.
20
Bourdain didn’t make it about himself. He qualified his opinion. He’s been doing his own soul searching since becoming involved with Asia Argento, an actress who was among Weinstein’s victims. Bourdain was asked his opinion. He gave it, and he qualified it as his opinion, which he’s stated elsewhere is informed by Argento’s story. The only person who made it about him was the commenter who made it about Bourdain.
Batali can take all the time he needs and wants. But soul searching is in greater need. Redemption is a powerful thing. But it takes time, honesty, and humility.
32
The fact that he's seeking advice from Christine Muhlke speaks volumes.
2
As someone who believes that the vast majority of convicted felons deserve a second chance after they have paid their proverbial debt to society, I am compelled to admit that all of the accused cannot be banned for life from their respective professions.
I would suggest that you can make a comeback if: 1) You're actually sorry, which is demonstrated by more than lip service and a non-apology apology; 2) you're accusers aren't numbered in the dozens (no comeback for Harvey W and Bill C, in other words); 3) your accusers were not minors at the time (so forget Kevin S coming back); 4) there is not a tape of you bragging about your success in habitually sexually assaulting people (you know where I'm going with that); AND, 5) you're not a serial rapist or something else nauseating.
It appears Mr. Batali may be allowed to work as a chef again.
27
Mario - write the book.
Hasn't been done, NEEDS to be done. The "Me Too" event was a seismic shift- in what must someday be understood as a pattern of behavior that is literally thousands of years old. Are you personally responsible for all of it? Really not, and all of us need to realize that fully.
Maybe have a woman co-author? Phrases you need to use: "None of this is intended to "excuse" my behavior, or anyone else's. It's intended to help us all understand." And then; "Chapter One. I was introduced to sexual harassment, bullying, and abuse at the age of four." - Which I would bet is about true.
Your woman co-author should tell her own story, too- from the age of 4; alternate chapters?
Then; after the book is published- and after Oprah - just go back to work. "Sorry. That was really dumb. Don't think there's much chance I'll ever act that way again, drunk or not. Pass the salt."
4
The man behaved badly at times. That’s not ok. But a professional death sentence? Perennial public shaming? C’mon. If the #MeToo movement is to have credibility and durability, it must also have proportionality.
89
"But a professional death sentence? Perennial public shaming?"
Why don't you run that by the women he sexually groped, sexually harassed and from the sounds of it, sexually assaulted? I think that's where you'll find the answers.
13
I agree - mocking him or body shaming him or fashion shaming him is just as despicable as what he's done... now he can say #metoo
People what is that parable about casting the first stone?
I'm a woman who has suffered at the hands of male abuse (and some female abuse too) but we have to help each other find a way to living life better...
Everyone deserves a second chance.
4
@ Larry
There have been no charges of rape or sexual assault filed, so why the need for exaggerated claims and extreme remedies? He has and will continue to suffer consequences for bad personal and workplace behavior, but there must a reasonable balance here. I think that's where you'll find better answers.
1
Really?
A second act?
Why doesn't he try this one - become a human being who isn't a sexual predator, who doesn't abuse women or those who work for him.
Not interested in this dude-
104
Apologize, and step off the stage.
103
We have to recognize the legitimacy of the #metoo and condemn detestable behavior, but a scorched policy that refuses any redemption isn't a way to move society forward. Let Mario cook.
14
Simple solution, do not be abusive again and go on with your interests since you have the resources to readily go on, and seek advice from people who care about you rather than people who are only self-interested. Also, since evidently drinking has been a problem, stop drinking.
19
Why is so difficult to decide?
If he likes to cook, he has the money to open a small trattoria and cook in anonymity there.
But...it seems that more than cooking he likes the lights of celebrity.
45
Real estate records and liquor licenses would indicate who the owner was. I doubt he wants to waste the money and effort involved if there's just going to be a public backlash.
I would imagine he's got enough money to live comfortably for the rest of his life. He should go do volunteer work and not worry about a comeback.
7
I can't believe that his overtures were rebuffed with his trademark orange crocs man bun and clown fashion sense. The nerve of those women
94
This man should retire to atone for his sins. Many chefs are arrogant bullies, who demean their workers. I never liked him. I thought him to be smug,
and aloof. He should do something selfless, and not do it for ulterior motives, such as for a comeback. Go talk to Pope Francis, or follow his example. Work with the poor, or the refugees. If this is not appealing to him, just retire to the Amalfi Coast with his mounds of money. Take home message, Go Away!
Oh, and take your silly Crocs with you. Cheers from Sunny Maui!
76
Mario Batali's ego just doesn't stop. It's been a mere four months since the revelation of his "decades-long pattern of abusive behavior" and he's already floating a comeback?
There's no mention of Batali working to better understand or make amends for his behavior (...that he doesn't recall? What?). It sounds like he still doesn't get it.
231
After four months his wife probably wants him out of the house.
17
The guys is a chef. He should open a little place and cook, treat all his employees with dignity and pay them a living wage. He answers only to himself.
139
He wants to cook. This is too much. Mario has great ideas, jobs for many so grow up.
5
Gee whiz, I agree. And in that little place he should stop seeking the limelight. It starts with losing the orange crocs and showing true humility. A humble man would stop doing things to call attention to himself. As far as the wallpaper thing he’s got to choose the right kind. Say, a subtle texture as opposed to a Missoni print.
5