Everyone loves a celebrity.

Apparently, even another celebrity.

In the foodie world, there are celebrities that have worked hard for their celebrity. Not for them the catered world of being cared for, escorted, primped and cosseted. No, these are the caterers, the ones who do the dishes, sweep the floor, and have a passion for feeding others.

So when I saw two celebrities having a great laugh together, it was pure fun. Rick Bayless, who has had an amazing year—culminating recently in being the guest chef for a State dinner at the White House—and Ludo Lefebvre a Top Chef Masters and Iron Chef America contestant himself (and one of the World’s 50 Greatest Chefs, as named by Relais & Chateaux), met at the book signing where, yes, Chef Lefebvre picked up a copy of Chef Bayless’ cookbook.

It was a good reminder that everyone is a fan of someone. How nice that in the culinary world, mentors and icons still exist.

And, it made me think of one other icon that seems to be fading: the book. Looking at this line, though, I think there’s still a reason to own a book.

After all, it’s hard to have your favorite celebrity sign your Kindle or your iPad.

May the great chefs, and the great cookbooks keep coming, in whatever form.