It's hard to imagine we are already celebrating anniversaries of Bourdain's death. The celebrity chef's ubiquitous influence makes it seem like he is still with us even today; and in a way, he is.
Anthony Bourdain was a renowned TV show host, author, and global traveler.
The world will also never forget his unique ability to weave enchanting tales about his experiences. In short, Bourdain was a storyteller with few equals, and this was evident through his shows, Parts Unknown and No Reservations.
He was also quite daring and was often sitting down in unimaginable parts of the world enjoying peculiar dishes with the locals. The world will thank him for making us learn about exotic destinations and unusual dishes.
At one time, the dish before him was an unwashed warthog anus, a special offer from a Namibia chief. Not to be rude, Bourdain accepted the meal.
In short, he was a man who loved people.
At one point, he explained how he ate whatever he found at his grandma's house and even asked for second helpings.
Bourdain was not just interested in eating the meal or getting what he had a craving for; he was more interested in the person behind the meal and their story. Culture intrigued him, as well as hearing what made these people happy, sad, or upset.
He may have described the warthog anus dish as the worst meal of his life, but he still ate it:
"The chief is there in front of his whole tribe offering you his very best. Show respect. I'm lucky to be there. I'm lucky to see that. I'm lucky to have that experience. Chewing some antibiotics is a small price to pay."
Even back home in New York, he was a fan of many local delis. He would enjoy pastrami sandwiches and describe pork as his favorite vegetable.
Although he was full of wit, Bourdain was also deeply compassionate. He knew how to be funny and also how to be serious when necessary.
Without a doubt, his viewers and fans got a rousing experience seeing him at work.
His voice always commanded attention and admiration, although it usually had a touch of good-natured sarcasm.
According to Bourdain, "You learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together."
He also strongly believed that you couldn't separate food and culture.
In addition to sharing important tips on food and how it holds society together, Bourdain also talked about poverty, misogyny, and racism.
Obviously, when it's all said and done, Bourdain was not perfect.
For one, he had powerful personal demons, and they eventually led to his untimely death by suicide. He hanged himself in a hotel room in France while filming an episode of Parts Unknown.
However unbecoming his death might have been, Bourdain taught us a lot of things. One of the secrets he shared with the world was that you could turn a stranger into a friend by sharing a meal with them.