Just curious, how much does it cost to purchase a restaurant worker these days?

I've found it strange how so many chefs smoke. Smoking affects your sense of taste, which you would think is important.

For evidence, watch "Hell's Kitchen" or "Top Chef" ... or the service door of restaurants/diners/pubs.

When your job is almost entirely about providing immediate gratification for other people, smoking is something you do entirely for yourself and your friends. Even if it involves huddling in the cold.