I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches - Hardcover

I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches - Hardcover

$33.60
Sale price  $33.60 Regular price 
Skip to product information
I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches - Hardcover

I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches - Hardcover

$33.60
Sale price  $33.60 Regular price 

by Drew Nieporent (Author)

A USA TODAY BESTSELLER

Drew Nieporent has been a staple of the New York dining scene for decades, establishing a host of iconic restaurants like Nobu, Tribeca Grill, and Montrachet. But his career started from much more humble beginnings--the grill at the local McDonald's.

A middle class kid from New York's East Side, Drew spends his childhood tagging along with his father to help restaurants get their liquor license, igniting a lifelong obsession with food. His passion takes him on a winding, continent-spanning journey, crossing paths with legendary chefs, iconic athletes, and movie stars as he grows into one of the most influential names in the culinary world. From waiting tables on a cruise ship to getting his first three-star review; from squabbling with Cornell professors to partnering with Robert DeNiro; this is more than a story of one man's extraordinary life--it's a story of an evolving industry. As culinary trends come and go, and relationships blossom and combust, Nieporent navigates it all with a simple yet powerful philosophy: give the customer what they want.

Told in Drew's unforgettable voice, I'm Not Trying To Be Difficult is a rollicking memoir that feels like sitting across the dinner table from someone who has seen it all--one of the last great restaurateurs.

Author Biography

Drew Nieporent, one of America's most respected and celebrated restaurateurs, is the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group, which opened and operated Nobu New York, Nobu London, Tribeca Grill, Rubicon, Corton, Bâtard, Daily Burger at Madison Square Garden, and many more. Nieporent's groundbreaking first restaurant, Montrachet, earned three stars from The New York Times and kept that rating for twenty-one years. He has partnered with Robert DeNiro, Robin Williams, and Francis Ford Coppola, among others. He has also won multiple James Beard Awards.

Number of Pages: 288
Dimensions: 1.1 x 9.1 x 3.1 IN
Illustrated: Yes
Publication Date: September 23, 2025

Intentional design

We make things that work better and last longer. Our products solve real problems with clean design.

Quality first

We obsess over the details and strive to deliver the best products at the best prices, every time.

Customer care

We're always on your side: keeping our loyal customers happy is our top priority and number one goal.

Feature 1

Made with care and unconditionally loved by our customers, this signature bestseller exceeds all expectations.

Feature 2

Made with care and unconditionally loved by our customers, this signature bestseller exceeds all expectations.

At the heart of every product lies a unique story, driven by our passion for quality and innovation. Each item enhances your everyday life and sparks joy.