Our family was at a Paul Anna’s restaurant Jubilation for Bernadette’s birthday.  The maitre’d looked like Telle Savalez and it was quite an upscale place to celebrate a birthday. We all ordered appetizers and shortly after being served, Joseph pushed his appetizer, which was “fresh green beans”, away from him, and looked away. Immediately, our waiter rushed to our table inquiring concern over Joseph’s apparent displeasure. Joseph told the waiter he was insulted by the dish and he was not happy. The waiter of course asked if he could offer Joseph anything in its place. Joseph replied no, and the conversation ended. To my amazement, I inquired about the situation and I will never forget Joseph’s answer. He then stated 1. A restaurant must NEVER state they are serving “fresh green beans” and serve a frozen (however, high quality) version. So, I asked him how he knew the beans were not fresh. 2. AND , the next part is what amazed me, is Joseph then stated a fresh green bean does not slide across your teeth in a particular fashion but a frozen green bean would respond in a different manner.  

The art of fine cuisine was his art and being an artist in many ways eccentric and a purist about cuisine. He was more than a cook, much much more…

Much loved, your family 

I was so sorry to hear about Joseph's passing. He was a master of the art of food creation and so meticulous when he created a masterpiece of a meal, it looked too good to eat. He created food as an art. He became my personal food critic in my head, and told me, “you never eat bad food”. So all the restaurants I go to now suffer (LOL) with the expectation of perfection of class and taste in dining, which Joseph instilled in me which has stuck throughout my life.

So sad he passed perhaps not knowing the effect his great talent had in people’s lives. Somehow, I believe, he now knows he was appreciated for his life and in the superior ability to make a meal more than just food, he created an experience!!!

Love you Joseph