Ep 3. Chef: Willy Coln - Restaurant: Willy Coln's

In this episode of Great Chefs of New Orleans, viewers are introduced to Chef Willy Coln and his eponymous restaurant, Willy Coln's. Coln is a Puerto Rican chef who combines the flavors of his native country with traditional Louisiana cuisine to create a unique and flavorful dining experience.

The episode begins with Coln preparing one of his signature dishes, shrimp and grits. He adds andouille sausage and a tomato-based Creole sauce to the shrimp before serving it over creamy grits. Coln explains that his background in Puerto Rican cooking has influenced his use of bold flavors and spices, which he brings to his dishes at Willy Coln's.

Next, Coln takes viewers on a tour of the French Quarter of New Orleans, showing off local landmarks and discussing the history of the city's cuisine. He stops at a local market to pick up fresh seafood and produce for the night's service at his restaurant.

Back in the kitchen, Coln prepares another popular dish, his mofongo with shrimp and garlic sauce. Mofongo is a Puerto Rican dish made from mashed green plantains, which Coln combines with garlic and other seasonings before molding it into a ball and serving it with succulent sautéed shrimp.

Throughout the episode, Coln emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and adapting traditional recipes to create something new and exciting. He stresses the importance of experimenting with new combinations of flavors and textures to keep diners engaged and satisfied.

As the dinner service gets underway, Coln and his kitchen staff work tirelessly to prepare a variety of dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and his signature Puerto Rican-style pork roast. Coln takes pride in his ability to bring together both familiar and exotic flavors in his cooking, creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the passion and dedication that Willy Coln brings to his cooking. He is committed to creating dishes that are not only delicious, but also reflect his unique cultural background and the city where he lives and works.

Overall, this episode of Great Chefs of New Orleans offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Willy Coln and his popular restaurant. From his inventive use of flavors and spices to his dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Coln stands out as a talented and passionate chef who is making his mark on the culinary scene in New Orleans.