Jean-Georges Wants To Tell You About His 'Little Paradise' Restaurant
Picture a day spent doing nothing but soaking in some glistening rays, on a pristine sand-filled beach situated miles away from the stresses of everyday life. As the sun begins to set slowly amid a plethora of shades of colors you never imagined coming together, your mind turns to the evening's dinner plan. As if the day could get any better, you are told that there is a restaurant equal parts chic and relaxed with full views of the ocean's coral reefs. And if the promise of a breathtaking meal were not enough, the eatery's executive chef is none other than Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Yes, life is good if you're one of the super-privileged able to manage a trip to the French island of St. Barth's. We recently caught up with the chef to discuss the globally inspired food and atmosphere at the Eden Rock hotel's On The Rocks, for which he redesigned the menus in 2011.
What have you done to give the restaurant a Jean-Georges flair?
The menu at Eden Rock consists of many of my signature New York City dishes made with local ingredients.
How often do you go there?
I visit Eden Rock three times a year.
Are there any local farms/fishermen that you work with?
We are working with local fishermen who deliver mahi-mahi, tuna, lobster. Additionally, we have a garden on the property where we grow organic herbs and tomatoes.
Any signature dishes on the menu?
For lunch, I am proud of the grilled local fish sandwich, which is served with French fries, tomato, avocado and mango salad. On the dinner menu, I would have to go with the assorted crispy sushi with local fish. Some of my favorite daily specials include the chicken and coconut soup with shitake mushrooms and the roasted salmon filet with green curry, bok choy and asparagus.
What're your favorite things to eat elsewhere on the island when you go down there?
I love the local flavors of St. Barth's. I recently discovered Eddy's Ghetto. My favorite restaurant on the island is Maya's.
Why St. Barth's for a Jean-Georges restaurant?
I chose to open a restaurant in St. Barth's because it is a little paradise that is not too far from New York City.
Do you have any other projects in the works that you can tell us about?
I am currently working on opening ABC Cocina in Manhattan and ABC Country in Pound Ridge (Westchester).
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