11 Things You Didn't Know About Mario Batali

Chef Mario Batali is known for his traditional style of Italian cooking, his many restaurants and his cookbooks (his latest cookbook, America Farm to Table, hit shelves earlier this month). Mario grew up watching his grandmother cook, and several restaurants around the world later, the chef is renowned in the food world. You may be most familiar with him for his cooking, but Mario gave us the inside scoop on the food he can't live without, the story behind the Crocs he wears and more!

Check out the slideshow above to learn 11 things you didn't know about Mario Batali! Then, find out what's on his essential grocery list, discover his favorite tailgating tips and check out his guide to locally grown foods!