For its new film ‘Ratatouille,’ Pixar explored our obsession with cuisine

BAY AREA FLAVORS FOOD TALE

“The central challenge was making food look appetizing in animation,” said Lewis, adding that when it came to the actual ratatouille, it really had to be spectacular.For inspiration and authenticity, they went to Keller. The Yountville chef tutored the film’s creators on the inner workings of a French kitchen and acted as the key consultant for the cooking. Producer Lewis, who interned in the French Laundry kitchen as part of his research for the film, gave the chef an extra challenge.

“I asked him how he would prepare the ratatouille if he knew the most famous critic in the world was coming in to the restaurant,” he said.