Book excerpt: Discover the tastes of New Jersey childhood alongside the refined flavors that come from decades in the culinary world. Whether you know Mike Isabella as the tough-talking Top Chef competitor or as the -- chef behind hot DC restaurants Graffiato and Bandolero, you'll now be able to recreate his recipes: one part old-world inspired Italian, one part old-school Jersey, one part modern Mediterranean -- all parts delicious. Inspired by the food his Italian-American grandmother prepared, Isabella serves up 200 recipes for everyday meals that appeal to the heart and the appetite, with a modern twist. These "small plates" versions of Mediterranean classics are food that's original and accessible, authentic without being fussy. Isabella shares his secret family recipes, the dishes that made him famous on Top Chef, and signature meals from his restaurant, from Ricotta with Charred Scallion and Harissa to Grandma's Potato Gnocchi, Chicken Wings with Pepperoni Sauce to Carnival-Style Zeppoles. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you'll taste the pure joy these meals can bring. Delive ring lip-smacking food (and talking some smack while he's at it), Isabella makes Italian fun to cook again.