Anthony Bourdain is probably as close to an idol as the young teenager in me has ever found.  (At least, the Bourdain I have gotten to know through his wonderful show, "No Reservations").  No Reservations is less about food than it is about exploring the world and *really* appreciating its diversity.  Bourdain's writing (he is a writer as much as a chef, if not more so) sets the narrative for the show, and is always interesting, and frequently insightful. I admire Bourdain's adventurous spirit and chutzpa to match it.  The new season premiers tomorrow, July 13.
By the way, his french fries at Les Halles are the best I've ever had.