I used to cook at a place frequented by Rep. Congressman Tim Johnson (IL). Johnson wanted his hamburger to just touch the grill for about a second on each side—literally. The first time I cooked it—and I had been warned—I did it for about 30 seconds per side. The waitress came back in tears after he verbally abused her for not conveying his order properly. What an asshole.

My favorite steak is the recooked leftovers of a medium-rare steak the next day.