Ep 12. Rick Moonen: RM New York, New York

Rick Moonen: RM New York, New York is the twelfth episode of the first season of the television series Chefs A'Field. In this captivating episode, viewers embark on a culinary journey with renowned chef Rick Moonen as he explores the vibrant food scene of New York City.

The episode begins with a glimpse into Rick Moonen's background and the evolution of his passion for sustainable seafood. Moonen, widely recognized as a pioneer in the sustainable seafood movement, takes great pride in sourcing and promoting environmentally friendly ingredients in his dishes. With this ethos in mind, he sets out to discover the local and sustainable culinary offerings in the bustling metropolis of New York.

Moonen's first stop takes him to the Union Square Greenmarket, an iconic farmer's market where local growers and producers come together to showcase their amazing produce. As he walks through the bustling market, Moonen is struck by the incredible variety of fresh ingredients available. He engages with passionate farmers and artisans, learning about their sustainable practices and the unique flavors they bring to the table.

Inspired by the vibrant ingredients at the market, Moonen heads to his restaurant, RM Seafood, located in the heart of New York City. Here, he crafts his innovative and delectable seafood dishes, always conscious of the impact his choices have on our oceans. Moonen's dedication to sustainability is further reflected in his restaurant's décor, which features a mesmerizing marine-inspired design.

Next, Moonen ventures out to visit the Sea to Table headquarters, a fellow champion of sustainable seafood. Sea to Table connects chefs with local, wild, and traceable seafood, ensuring that the ingredients used are not only delicious but also harvested responsibly. Moonen engages with the passionate team at Sea to Table, discussing the importance of supporting local fishermen and preserving the delicate balance of our oceans.

In the heart of New York City's iconic Chinatown, Moonen discovers the hidden gems of traditional Chinese cuisine. He visits a local restaurant where the chefs prepare authentic dishes using sustainable ingredients, showcasing the harmonious blend of flavors that Chinese cuisine is famous for. Moonen is captivated by the ingenuity and skill of the chefs, as they utilize every part of the ingredients to create incredibly flavorful and sustainable dishes.

The episode takes an exciting turn as Moonen attends an exclusive underground supper club. He is invited into the world of home cooks who open their doors to a select group of adventurous diners. Moonen witnesses the creativity and passion that these home cooks pour into their menus, using locally sourced ingredients to create unique and memorable dining experiences.

The final part of the episode takes Moonen to the North Fork of Long Island, where he explores the region's flourishing wine industry. He visits a family-owned vineyard, learning about the sustainable viticulture practices and the art of winemaking. Moonen relishes the opportunity to pair his exquisite seafood dishes with the local wines, elevating the dining experience to new heights.

Rick Moonen: RM New York, New York is a captivating culinary journey through the diverse and sustainable food landscape of New York City. Viewers are introduced to the incredible passion of chef Rick Moonen and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting local producers and embracing sustainable practices in the world of gastronomy. This episode will leave audiences inspired to seek out and savor sustainable ingredients in their own culinary adventures.