1 00:00:02,670 --> 00:00:05,504 - This week, I'm in yonkers, new york, where the owners 2 00:00:05,589 --> 00:00:08,716 Of a family-run puerto rican restaurant, el cantito, 3 00:00:08,759 --> 00:00:09,925 Have asked for my help 4 00:00:10,052 --> 00:00:14,179 After a disastrous few years since opening. 5 00:00:14,223 --> 00:00:16,140 - I'm julio. I'm 47 years old. 6 00:00:16,225 --> 00:00:17,683 - I'm debbie. I'm 52 years old. 7 00:00:17,810 --> 00:00:21,812 Both: And we're the owners of el cantito cafe in yonkers. 8 00:00:21,897 --> 00:00:24,189 - El cantito, it didn't start here. 9 00:00:24,275 --> 00:00:28,027 It started from mami's kitchen when we were growing up. 10 00:00:28,112 --> 00:00:29,903 - So my mom was a great cook. 11 00:00:29,947 --> 00:00:31,280 The whole neighborhood loved her cooking. 12 00:00:31,323 --> 00:00:33,532 And then my brother, he was always with her 13 00:00:33,617 --> 00:00:35,200 In the kitchen, and he became very passionate. 14 00:00:35,327 --> 00:00:37,870 It was my mother's dream to open up a restaurant. 15 00:00:37,913 --> 00:00:39,246 My name is debbie. - Debbie. 16 00:00:39,331 --> 00:00:40,456 - And then my brother's chef julio. 17 00:00:40,541 --> 00:00:41,915 He's the executive chef. 18 00:00:41,959 --> 00:00:43,500 My parents both are deceased, 19 00:00:43,586 --> 00:00:45,419 And these are my grandma's recipes. 20 00:00:45,463 --> 00:00:48,130 In 2017, I took an early retirement. 21 00:00:48,215 --> 00:00:49,214 Have you been here before? - No. 22 00:00:49,300 --> 00:00:50,215 - Okay. Puerto rican food. 23 00:00:50,301 --> 00:00:51,425 This location became available, 24 00:00:51,510 --> 00:00:53,969 And me and my brother went for it. 25 00:00:54,055 --> 00:00:55,679 This is the dream. 26 00:00:55,765 --> 00:00:58,140 I put everything in this restaurant, 27 00:00:58,225 --> 00:01:00,142 My whole entire life savings. 28 00:01:00,186 --> 00:01:03,062 We opened el cantito March 10th, 2020. 29 00:01:03,105 --> 00:01:04,313 These are the empanadas. 30 00:01:04,398 --> 00:01:06,690 For five days, the place got full, 31 00:01:06,776 --> 00:01:09,026 And I'm like, "oh, my god, you know, this is it." 32 00:01:09,111 --> 00:01:10,611 Such an amazing feeling to have 33 00:01:10,696 --> 00:01:13,155 People eating and enjoying our food. 34 00:01:13,199 --> 00:01:14,406 And then all of a sudden... 35 00:01:14,533 --> 00:01:16,575 [dramatic music] 36 00:01:16,660 --> 00:01:17,951 The world shut down, 37 00:01:18,037 --> 00:01:23,123 And el cantito had to shut down 'cause of covid. 38 00:01:23,209 --> 00:01:26,794 - We used all our money to survive. 39 00:01:26,879 --> 00:01:29,588 After covid, people just don't wanna come out. 40 00:01:29,632 --> 00:01:32,633 I don't know why they don't come to el cantito cafe. 41 00:01:32,718 --> 00:01:33,675 Why not? 42 00:01:36,430 --> 00:01:39,598 - 'cause we don't make what we need to make, I can't staff. 43 00:01:39,642 --> 00:01:41,725 - The dishwasher is not working too well. 44 00:01:41,811 --> 00:01:45,979 - I don't have a dishwasher. I cook, I clean, I wash dishes. 45 00:01:47,399 --> 00:01:49,233 - Yeah. 46 00:01:49,318 --> 00:01:52,027 - I'm chef e, the sous chef at el cantito. 47 00:01:52,071 --> 00:01:54,446 Every day, things are bad 48 00:01:54,490 --> 00:01:56,907 Because of malfunctioning equipment. 49 00:01:56,992 --> 00:01:58,408 - I can't--I can't open it. 50 00:01:59,829 --> 00:02:03,997 - The salad trough is busted and the fridge was broken. 51 00:02:05,334 --> 00:02:06,708 - Yeah. - It is. 52 00:02:06,794 --> 00:02:09,336 - Here's some water, guys. I'm so sorry about the heat. 53 00:02:09,421 --> 00:02:11,797 Our ac system broke down last summer. 54 00:02:11,841 --> 00:02:13,298 Have you guys ever been to puerto rico, though? 55 00:02:13,342 --> 00:02:15,592 - No. - This is what it feels like. 56 00:02:15,678 --> 00:02:19,471 - It's a lot to juggle, and then to keep a smile... 57 00:02:19,557 --> 00:02:22,057 What am I doing? And to keep that energy... 58 00:02:23,310 --> 00:02:25,269 - Really salty? - It is, yeah. 59 00:02:26,689 --> 00:02:28,522 - It's stressful. And it's hard. 60 00:02:31,861 --> 00:02:33,610 - This is unbelievable. This is unreal. 61 00:02:33,654 --> 00:02:37,948 - I have seen the-- the decline in his passion. 62 00:02:38,033 --> 00:02:41,326 I know that his fire is out because he's tired, 63 00:02:41,370 --> 00:02:42,786 And I get frustrated sometimes. 64 00:02:42,872 --> 00:02:45,414 [groans] come on, come on. 65 00:02:45,499 --> 00:02:49,585 - Julio gets very, very quiet when he's stressed out. 66 00:02:49,628 --> 00:02:51,336 - You know, it's times that we have gone through 67 00:02:51,380 --> 00:02:53,213 In the past during service where it's like, 68 00:02:53,299 --> 00:02:57,259 We say bare minimum to each other. 69 00:02:57,303 --> 00:02:59,219 - I'm debbie's daughter, and I'm julio's niece. 70 00:02:59,221 --> 00:03:01,180 Things have been really tough, 71 00:03:01,265 --> 00:03:03,056 To the point where my mom had to get another job. 72 00:03:03,100 --> 00:03:04,474 And it's like, she gets no breaks. 73 00:03:04,602 --> 00:03:06,310 - Did you guys want something else? 74 00:03:06,395 --> 00:03:08,478 - No, I think we're all set. - Dessert? The bill. 75 00:03:08,522 --> 00:03:10,314 Our money is, you know, running low. 76 00:03:10,441 --> 00:03:12,691 And the little cushion we had is no longer there. 77 00:03:16,363 --> 00:03:20,365 - I don't like to give up, but it takes its toll. 78 00:03:21,785 --> 00:03:23,035 - With the pressure, I'm worried. 79 00:03:23,162 --> 00:03:26,663 I believe that julio will crumble. 80 00:03:26,749 --> 00:03:27,831 - Things have to change. If not, 81 00:03:27,917 --> 00:03:30,125 The doors are going to close. 82 00:03:30,211 --> 00:03:32,878 - I need help. I need--I--we need help. 83 00:03:32,922 --> 00:03:36,340 - Crazy, it doesn't take that long to plate. 84 00:03:36,425 --> 00:03:37,925 [bleep] 85 00:03:38,010 --> 00:03:41,220 ♪ ♪ 86 00:03:41,263 --> 00:03:43,305 - This place is a death trap. 87 00:03:43,349 --> 00:03:46,433 If I can't help you, you can't help yourself. 88 00:03:46,518 --> 00:03:47,684 Rot has set in. 89 00:03:47,770 --> 00:03:48,810 Smell it! 90 00:03:48,896 --> 00:03:51,063 Shut it down. 91 00:03:53,609 --> 00:03:57,444 I'm in yonkers, new york, to visit el cantito, 92 00:03:57,488 --> 00:03:59,780 A puerto rican restaurant serving food based 93 00:03:59,782 --> 00:04:01,031 On their family recipes. 94 00:04:01,075 --> 00:04:02,908 Now I'm really expecting a celebration 95 00:04:02,993 --> 00:04:05,410 Of those amazing flavors that really does show off 96 00:04:05,496 --> 00:04:07,412 That beautiful island. 97 00:04:07,456 --> 00:04:10,874 And this is it. 98 00:04:10,918 --> 00:04:12,960 Hello. 99 00:04:13,045 --> 00:04:15,087 [tense music] 100 00:04:15,130 --> 00:04:17,756 - Gordon is here at el cantito cafe. 101 00:04:17,883 --> 00:04:19,091 Hello. 102 00:04:19,134 --> 00:04:20,175 I am very nervous. 103 00:04:20,261 --> 00:04:21,969 But whatever it is that gordon says, 104 00:04:22,054 --> 00:04:23,178 I'm gonna give it my all. 105 00:04:23,264 --> 00:04:24,304 How are you? - Very well, thank you. 106 00:04:24,390 --> 00:04:25,389 How are you? Nice to see you. 107 00:04:25,432 --> 00:04:27,057 - I am great, thank you. - Good. 108 00:04:27,142 --> 00:04:28,976 - Uh, table for how many? - Uh-- 109 00:04:29,019 --> 00:04:32,020 - Just one, yourself? [laughs] 110 00:04:32,064 --> 00:04:33,397 - I, uh--I think-- - sorry. 111 00:04:33,482 --> 00:04:34,690 - It's all good. 112 00:04:34,733 --> 00:04:35,649 And you are? - Debbie. 113 00:04:35,693 --> 00:04:36,608 - Debbie. Nice to meet you. 114 00:04:36,735 --> 00:04:38,318 You're the owner, right? - Yes, I am. 115 00:04:38,404 --> 00:04:39,569 - Where would you like me to sit? 116 00:04:39,655 --> 00:04:42,447 [light whimsical music] 117 00:04:42,491 --> 00:04:45,284 - Uh, sorry. - Don't worry. You okay? 118 00:04:45,327 --> 00:04:48,412 - Yeah, I'm good. - Thank you. 119 00:04:48,497 --> 00:04:51,748 - Oh, my god, I'm going to cook for gordon ramsay. 120 00:04:51,834 --> 00:04:55,752 You know, it--it puts on so much more pressure on me. 121 00:04:55,838 --> 00:04:57,004 - Is it hot in here, or is it me? 122 00:04:57,089 --> 00:04:58,547 - Yes, no, it's very hot in here. 123 00:04:58,674 --> 00:05:01,425 Our air conditioner broke down. - Air condition broke down? 124 00:05:01,468 --> 00:05:03,343 Damn, I'm sorry. Maybe start with some 125 00:05:03,387 --> 00:05:04,553 Ice cold water, please? - Water? 126 00:05:04,638 --> 00:05:05,971 - Yes, please. Thanks, love. 127 00:05:06,056 --> 00:05:08,515 [upbeat music] 128 00:05:08,642 --> 00:05:09,933 Okay. "all about us. 129 00:05:09,977 --> 00:05:12,811 "el cantito translates to 'the small piece.' 130 00:05:12,896 --> 00:05:15,188 "now through my cooking, I strive to bring 131 00:05:15,316 --> 00:05:16,815 "the authenticity of puerto rico. 132 00:05:16,900 --> 00:05:18,400 "my gratification emerges 133 00:05:18,485 --> 00:05:21,361 "when a customer tries a meal "I've prepared for them 134 00:05:21,447 --> 00:05:24,156 "and leaves feeling fulfilled, and most importantly, 135 00:05:24,199 --> 00:05:28,535 Nostalgic, as they've just left grandma's kitchen." 136 00:05:28,579 --> 00:05:30,996 Multiple times I've been to puerto rico, 137 00:05:31,081 --> 00:05:32,914 And the island's just gorgeous. 138 00:05:33,000 --> 00:05:36,626 And I think of colors, flavors of puerto rico. 139 00:05:36,712 --> 00:05:39,838 And there is nothing that takes me back 140 00:05:39,923 --> 00:05:41,298 To puerto rico in here, 141 00:05:41,342 --> 00:05:44,718 Not even a [bleep] two-dollar fake candle. 142 00:05:44,762 --> 00:05:47,304 The interior here is a little bit dreary. 143 00:05:47,389 --> 00:05:51,266 It's dark. It's gray, unfinished. 144 00:05:51,310 --> 00:05:53,060 - Hello, I'm your server, justin. 145 00:05:53,145 --> 00:05:54,603 What are we thinking? 146 00:05:54,646 --> 00:05:57,481 - So let's start off with the bacalaítos. 147 00:05:57,524 --> 00:06:02,694 Let's do the shrimp ceviche as well, please. 148 00:06:02,738 --> 00:06:04,488 I gotta take an empanada as well. 149 00:06:04,573 --> 00:06:06,698 - Oh, you have to. - Yeah. Who makes them? 150 00:06:06,784 --> 00:06:08,408 - Julio. 151 00:06:08,452 --> 00:06:09,743 - And how would you describe his food 152 00:06:09,787 --> 00:06:10,869 On a scale of one to ten? 153 00:06:10,996 --> 00:06:13,205 - Oh, I always say ten. 154 00:06:13,290 --> 00:06:16,291 - I love that. - This food is good. 155 00:06:16,335 --> 00:06:17,793 - Can I try the snapper as well, please? 156 00:06:17,920 --> 00:06:19,378 - Got it. 157 00:06:23,759 --> 00:06:25,175 - Okay. 158 00:06:25,219 --> 00:06:28,053 [suspenseful music] 159 00:06:28,138 --> 00:06:30,514 - This is the bacalaíto and the ceviche. 160 00:06:30,557 --> 00:06:31,890 - Love it. Thank you. 161 00:06:31,934 --> 00:06:34,267 So why did you decide to buy this place? 162 00:06:34,353 --> 00:06:35,560 - Our dream was to open up a restaurant... 163 00:06:35,646 --> 00:06:36,812 - Right. - All our lives. 164 00:06:36,897 --> 00:06:38,313 - Where was julio's job? 165 00:06:38,399 --> 00:06:41,024 - He was working as a general manager 166 00:06:41,068 --> 00:06:42,025 Right before we opened here. 167 00:06:42,152 --> 00:06:43,276 - So not as a chef? 168 00:06:43,362 --> 00:06:46,571 - He never worked as a chef-chef. 169 00:06:46,615 --> 00:06:49,366 - Why would he become a chef if he's never trained as one? 170 00:06:49,410 --> 00:06:51,827 - He already knew the recipes, cooked with my mom. 171 00:06:51,870 --> 00:06:53,537 She was an amazing cook. 172 00:06:53,580 --> 00:06:55,914 So we put our heads together and opened it. 173 00:06:55,958 --> 00:06:58,542 Enjoy. - Okay. 174 00:06:58,627 --> 00:07:02,546 Well, this looks unappetizing, and the presentation is awful. 175 00:07:02,631 --> 00:07:07,426 Just take that greasy [bleep] off of it. 176 00:07:07,511 --> 00:07:09,553 I lived on empanadas in puerto rico, 177 00:07:09,638 --> 00:07:13,515 And empanadas should be stuffed of excitement. 178 00:07:13,600 --> 00:07:16,893 But this thing is just greasy and bland. 179 00:07:16,979 --> 00:07:18,812 That is gross. 180 00:07:18,856 --> 00:07:22,399 Okay. Bacalaítos. 181 00:07:24,486 --> 00:07:27,362 That's supposed to be a codfish fritter. 182 00:07:27,448 --> 00:07:29,114 It is so greasy. 183 00:07:29,241 --> 00:07:30,824 Justin, 184 00:07:30,909 --> 00:07:32,742 Are these things normally supposed to be that greasy? 185 00:07:32,828 --> 00:07:35,412 - They are straight from the fryer. 186 00:07:35,456 --> 00:07:38,248 - They should be crisp and less greasy. 187 00:07:38,333 --> 00:07:41,126 I'll, uh--I'll make room for my ceviche, thank you. 188 00:07:41,211 --> 00:07:42,252 - And I'll bring you some more napkins. 189 00:07:42,296 --> 00:07:47,674 - And a, uh, [bleep] degreasing mat. 190 00:07:47,759 --> 00:07:49,551 - Julio. Okay. 191 00:07:49,595 --> 00:07:53,013 So his critique was that they were very greasy. 192 00:07:53,056 --> 00:07:54,681 They were supposed to be more crispy. 193 00:07:54,766 --> 00:07:57,976 - Okay. 194 00:07:58,061 --> 00:08:00,270 - Okay. Ceviche. 195 00:08:00,355 --> 00:08:03,565 Shrimp look sort of a weird, off-color. 196 00:08:06,528 --> 00:08:10,030 The flavor's bad. Wow. 197 00:08:10,115 --> 00:08:12,741 The shrimp taste frozen. 198 00:08:12,826 --> 00:08:14,951 They taste watery. 199 00:08:14,995 --> 00:08:18,288 The secret, like any ceviche, it's all about the combination, 200 00:08:18,373 --> 00:08:21,124 The freshest ingredients put together 201 00:08:21,210 --> 00:08:23,376 In the simplest of fashion. 202 00:08:23,420 --> 00:08:26,630 And this is thrown together with someone 203 00:08:26,715 --> 00:08:29,174 That has fallen out of love with cooking. 204 00:08:29,259 --> 00:08:32,043 It says here, "flavors that just come straight 205 00:08:32,095 --> 00:08:33,553 From my grandma's kitchen." 206 00:08:33,597 --> 00:08:36,139 Well, this does taste like my grandma's kitchen, 207 00:08:36,225 --> 00:08:40,018 Except my grandma's [bleep] dead. 208 00:08:40,062 --> 00:08:42,395 Justin, it looks off. 209 00:08:42,439 --> 00:08:44,689 The color's gone. What's happened there? 210 00:08:44,775 --> 00:08:45,649 Are they frozen? 211 00:08:45,651 --> 00:08:47,526 - I'm not sure. - Wow. Okay. 212 00:08:47,611 --> 00:08:52,364 Well, I'm struggling to get to a ten three appetizers deep. 213 00:08:52,407 --> 00:08:55,242 - Okay, so his critique was that it looks off. 214 00:08:55,327 --> 00:08:59,621 He was like, "it looks gray." - okay. 215 00:08:59,706 --> 00:09:00,997 Everything is going wrong. 216 00:09:01,291 --> 00:09:04,000 Like, we--you know, we have-- I've done this so many times, 217 00:09:04,044 --> 00:09:06,169 And it's just like-- it's not--it's not coming out. 218 00:09:06,255 --> 00:09:08,296 - Hi, are you guys ready to order? 219 00:09:10,259 --> 00:09:11,550 - Fried chicken chunks to start? 220 00:09:11,635 --> 00:09:13,301 - Sure. 221 00:09:15,013 --> 00:09:18,306 - How is it? 222 00:09:18,392 --> 00:09:19,599 - Maybe I'm spoiled. 223 00:09:19,685 --> 00:09:21,977 My grandma's so good at cooking the rice, but-- 224 00:09:22,062 --> 00:09:23,311 - And is your grandma from puerto rico? 225 00:09:23,355 --> 00:09:24,354 - Yeah, she's from puerto rico. 226 00:09:24,439 --> 00:09:26,273 - Taste any grandma's flavor in there? 227 00:09:26,358 --> 00:09:28,275 - No, no. - 'cause the--chef julio said 228 00:09:28,318 --> 00:09:32,362 That the grandma essence is in his food here, so. 229 00:09:34,950 --> 00:09:37,409 - Uh, justin. 230 00:09:37,452 --> 00:09:40,036 He's not even saying the rice is anywhere near a five, 231 00:09:40,080 --> 00:09:41,288 Let alone a ten. 232 00:09:41,331 --> 00:09:43,248 - Well, maybe he has a different preference. 233 00:09:43,292 --> 00:09:45,166 - No, his grandma's from puerto rico, 234 00:09:45,252 --> 00:09:47,419 And I think he knows his stuff. 235 00:09:47,504 --> 00:09:51,464 - Here. Press it on top. Chef, press it on top. 236 00:09:53,760 --> 00:09:55,093 [bell dings] 237 00:09:59,266 --> 00:10:02,601 - So here we have the chillo... - Oh, wow. Thanks. 238 00:10:02,644 --> 00:10:04,477 - Served with tostones with the garlic sauce. 239 00:10:04,521 --> 00:10:08,398 - Wow. Hello, baby. 240 00:10:08,442 --> 00:10:11,318 - Hello, baby. - [kisses] thank you. 241 00:10:11,361 --> 00:10:14,279 [bleep] 242 00:10:14,406 --> 00:10:16,740 Oh, [bleep]. 243 00:10:16,867 --> 00:10:21,328 [tense music] 244 00:10:21,371 --> 00:10:23,038 Both: Thank you. 245 00:10:23,123 --> 00:10:24,998 - Back to talk to you right now. 246 00:10:27,544 --> 00:10:28,877 - I thought they were gonna just--at least 247 00:10:28,920 --> 00:10:32,422 Just cut these off so I don't have to, uh, 248 00:10:32,466 --> 00:10:37,677 Rip my esophagus off halfway through eating. 249 00:10:37,721 --> 00:10:41,681 Not an ounce of seasoning, just overcooked and dry. 250 00:10:41,725 --> 00:10:45,727 It's like we've forgotten what puerto rico stands for. 251 00:10:45,771 --> 00:10:47,354 It's dull. 252 00:10:47,439 --> 00:10:50,523 A tad under $30 for that, in yonkers-- 253 00:10:50,567 --> 00:10:54,027 Anyone paying that needs to be [bleep] bonkers. 254 00:10:54,071 --> 00:10:57,656 So this food could be so much better 255 00:10:57,699 --> 00:11:01,242 If the individual cooking it understood the basics. 256 00:11:01,286 --> 00:11:03,912 It's like there's no blood running through his veins. 257 00:11:03,997 --> 00:11:06,122 It's bland. 258 00:11:06,166 --> 00:11:09,834 - He basically just said it was bland. 259 00:11:09,920 --> 00:11:13,588 - Bland? Oh, lord. 260 00:11:13,674 --> 00:11:17,926 The best chef, and--and I've messed up all of his dishes. 261 00:11:18,011 --> 00:11:21,429 I cook so well, you know? 262 00:11:21,473 --> 00:11:26,142 And for me--and for me to mess up his dishes-- 263 00:11:26,186 --> 00:11:27,811 - Here you guys go. Both: Thank you. 264 00:11:27,896 --> 00:11:29,312 - And I'm coming back with your card. 265 00:11:29,398 --> 00:11:32,607 ♪ ♪ 266 00:11:32,693 --> 00:11:35,777 - Have you been to puerto rico? - Never. I'm puerto rican. 267 00:11:35,862 --> 00:11:39,155 - And you've never been there? - It's--it's a shame. 268 00:11:39,199 --> 00:11:42,492 - [retching, coughing] 269 00:11:45,914 --> 00:11:46,871 - That's--that's not right. 270 00:11:46,915 --> 00:11:49,290 [toilet flushing] 271 00:11:49,334 --> 00:11:52,711 Oh boy. 272 00:11:52,796 --> 00:11:54,879 - [coughs] 273 00:11:54,965 --> 00:11:58,341 - Are you okay? 274 00:11:59,428 --> 00:12:01,886 - You've just thrown up in the bathroom? 275 00:12:01,930 --> 00:12:04,597 What did you eat? 276 00:12:05,892 --> 00:12:08,393 - The chicken's raw? 277 00:12:09,730 --> 00:12:12,397 - Oh, my god. 278 00:12:12,441 --> 00:12:13,773 Have you got chicken on there as well? 279 00:12:13,859 --> 00:12:15,024 Are they cooked? 280 00:12:15,068 --> 00:12:16,109 Please check that's cooked properly, 281 00:12:16,194 --> 00:12:18,611 Will you, please? 282 00:12:18,697 --> 00:12:21,322 [squelching] 283 00:12:21,324 --> 00:12:23,283 [bleep] 284 00:12:23,326 --> 00:12:25,034 [sizzling] 285 00:12:28,582 --> 00:12:31,791 - I'm at el cantito, where I've just witnessed 286 00:12:31,835 --> 00:12:35,253 Food being served that could have killed someone. 287 00:12:35,380 --> 00:12:37,797 No more customers. Shut it down, okay? 288 00:12:37,841 --> 00:12:40,717 - Uh, chef, the chicken was undercooked. 289 00:12:40,802 --> 00:12:42,635 - I hope that, you know, you're okay. 290 00:12:42,721 --> 00:12:44,679 And if you need anything, just let us know. 291 00:12:44,765 --> 00:12:46,139 - Thank you. 292 00:12:46,183 --> 00:12:47,557 - This is not the first time that's happened. 293 00:12:47,601 --> 00:12:50,143 It's happened a few times. 294 00:12:50,228 --> 00:12:52,520 - Gordon asked me to tell everyone to leave. 295 00:12:52,564 --> 00:12:54,272 - I need to talk to head chef, julio, 296 00:12:54,274 --> 00:12:56,149 And his sister, debbie, now... 297 00:12:56,193 --> 00:12:59,319 - Chef wants to meet you. - Are you kidding me? 298 00:12:59,362 --> 00:13:00,570 [bowl clatters] 299 00:13:00,614 --> 00:13:02,405 - To figure out what the hell is going on. 300 00:13:02,491 --> 00:13:06,159 Because this place is a total nightmare. 301 00:13:06,244 --> 00:13:07,577 Hey. - Hey, chef. 302 00:13:07,662 --> 00:13:10,288 - It's julio? - Yes. How are you, chef? 303 00:13:10,415 --> 00:13:15,502 - That lunch was not what I expected. 304 00:13:15,587 --> 00:13:18,546 Julio, how do you send raw chicken out to a young kid? 305 00:13:18,590 --> 00:13:22,175 The poor kid was puking up in the bathroom. 306 00:13:22,260 --> 00:13:24,302 I'm disappointed because I came in, 307 00:13:24,387 --> 00:13:25,804 I grabbed this bio, 308 00:13:25,931 --> 00:13:29,557 And the line that stands out is that "my gratification emerges 309 00:13:29,601 --> 00:13:33,186 "when a customer tries a meal I prepared for them 310 00:13:33,230 --> 00:13:35,313 "and leaves feeling fulfilled, 311 00:13:35,398 --> 00:13:40,360 As if they've just left my grandma's kitchen." 312 00:13:40,445 --> 00:13:42,570 Honestly, halfway through my lunch, 313 00:13:42,614 --> 00:13:46,115 I wanted to pick you up and fly down to puerto rico 314 00:13:46,159 --> 00:13:48,618 To remind you of what it should be like. 315 00:13:48,703 --> 00:13:51,120 Who wrote the recipes there? - Me, but I don't have 'em 316 00:13:51,164 --> 00:13:52,539 Written down. I have 'em-- 317 00:13:52,624 --> 00:13:54,916 - So you're just cooking from memory? 318 00:13:55,001 --> 00:13:57,252 - Mm-hmm. - So we're guessing? 319 00:13:57,295 --> 00:14:00,922 - Uh, well, yeah. - [burbles lips] 320 00:14:01,007 --> 00:14:02,757 [bleep] 321 00:14:02,801 --> 00:14:08,054 Everything just tasted greasy, no seasoning, and just-- 322 00:14:08,139 --> 00:14:11,182 It was--it was really unpleasant. 323 00:14:11,268 --> 00:14:15,061 If this young man wasn't your brother, 324 00:14:15,146 --> 00:14:16,855 Would you employ him? 325 00:14:16,940 --> 00:14:19,816 [tense music] 326 00:14:19,901 --> 00:14:23,027 - No. 327 00:14:23,071 --> 00:14:24,195 My brother has a passion for cooking, 328 00:14:24,281 --> 00:14:28,324 And I believe in his food, and we had it. 329 00:14:28,451 --> 00:14:30,201 We had it there at the beginning. 330 00:14:30,287 --> 00:14:32,078 We lost it because we don't have help. 331 00:14:32,163 --> 00:14:34,455 We don't have the proper personnel. 332 00:14:34,499 --> 00:14:36,541 - I work under a lot of pressure. 333 00:14:36,585 --> 00:14:38,710 I mean, I do everything. I do the groceries, 334 00:14:38,795 --> 00:14:43,298 I come back, I prep, I cook it, I plate it, I serve it. 335 00:14:43,383 --> 00:14:44,966 I ask the guests how they're doing. 336 00:14:45,093 --> 00:14:46,342 I go back there. 337 00:14:46,386 --> 00:14:49,888 I do it all over again and every day. 338 00:14:49,931 --> 00:14:52,390 - He's tired, just like I am. 339 00:14:52,434 --> 00:14:54,517 I come in here, I sweep, mop. 340 00:14:54,603 --> 00:14:57,020 [stammers] you know, and--and have a second job, 341 00:14:57,063 --> 00:14:58,688 'cause I have another job, so. 342 00:14:58,773 --> 00:15:00,690 - Do you have a second job? - Yes, I do. 343 00:15:00,775 --> 00:15:02,400 [somber music] 344 00:15:02,444 --> 00:15:04,611 - [bleep] - yeah. I work-- 345 00:15:04,696 --> 00:15:06,988 - And does that money come into the business? 346 00:15:07,032 --> 00:15:10,366 - Mm-hmm. Yeah. - [bleep] 347 00:15:12,162 --> 00:15:18,583 I had no idea we were this far down the ladder. 348 00:15:18,668 --> 00:15:21,920 And the one ingredient I'm missing most, 349 00:15:22,005 --> 00:15:23,755 Do you know what it is? 350 00:15:23,798 --> 00:15:27,717 - Love? - Love. 351 00:15:27,761 --> 00:15:31,387 The one ingredient you can't buy. 352 00:15:31,473 --> 00:15:35,099 When you don't raise those standards 353 00:15:35,185 --> 00:15:40,355 In that kitchen, it just disappears. 354 00:15:40,398 --> 00:15:44,901 It's hard to help a chef that's given up. 355 00:15:44,986 --> 00:15:46,235 I'm here to help. 356 00:15:46,279 --> 00:15:48,154 Do you want to be here? 357 00:15:48,239 --> 00:15:51,157 - Of course I want to be here. 358 00:15:51,201 --> 00:15:53,743 - I'll be back in 24 hours. 359 00:15:53,787 --> 00:15:55,620 I wanna see this place functioning. 360 00:15:55,705 --> 00:15:58,414 I want to see what it's like behind the line, 361 00:15:58,500 --> 00:16:00,249 In the dining room. 362 00:16:00,335 --> 00:16:03,252 I wanna have a look at where the cracks are. 363 00:16:03,338 --> 00:16:06,005 Try to put some passion into it, would you, please? 364 00:16:06,132 --> 00:16:07,090 - Yes, I will, chef. 365 00:16:07,175 --> 00:16:10,301 [dramatic music] 366 00:16:10,387 --> 00:16:14,263 ♪ ♪ 367 00:16:14,265 --> 00:16:17,558 - It's a new day, and after tasting 368 00:16:17,602 --> 00:16:19,727 A disastrous menu at el cantito, 369 00:16:19,771 --> 00:16:22,146 I'm coming back to see how the restaurant runs 370 00:16:22,190 --> 00:16:23,898 During a busy service, 371 00:16:23,942 --> 00:16:26,025 Which I hope is filled with passion. 372 00:16:26,111 --> 00:16:28,820 - Tonight I'm gonna find that fire 373 00:16:28,905 --> 00:16:30,822 And I'm gonna fight, and I'm gonna cook 374 00:16:30,907 --> 00:16:33,783 With the taste, the passion, the love. 375 00:16:33,868 --> 00:16:36,828 We need communication tonight. - Yeah. 376 00:16:36,871 --> 00:16:39,789 - We need to make sure that we're all on the same page, 377 00:16:39,833 --> 00:16:42,917 That we're all communicating, and we need to help. 378 00:16:43,003 --> 00:16:45,086 All hands on board. - Yeah. 379 00:16:45,130 --> 00:16:48,673 Both: Let's get ready for dinner. 380 00:16:48,758 --> 00:16:50,216 [tense music] 381 00:16:50,301 --> 00:16:53,386 - Here are some menus to get you guys started. 382 00:16:53,430 --> 00:16:55,388 - Thank you. 383 00:16:55,432 --> 00:16:57,890 - So chicharron de pollo, but with mofongo? 384 00:16:57,976 --> 00:16:59,642 - Sure. 385 00:16:59,728 --> 00:17:04,981 ♪ ♪ 386 00:17:05,066 --> 00:17:08,317 - There's grilled chicken. 387 00:17:08,361 --> 00:17:09,736 - Hi, guys. 388 00:17:09,779 --> 00:17:13,322 ♪ ♪ 389 00:17:13,450 --> 00:17:15,408 So, uh, julio, just talk me through the process. 390 00:17:15,452 --> 00:17:17,118 Who's doing what? - I'm saute-- 391 00:17:17,203 --> 00:17:18,870 - Right, so chef e is on fry. - Fry and grill. 392 00:17:18,955 --> 00:17:22,290 - Gotcha. [bell dings] 393 00:17:22,333 --> 00:17:24,542 What the [bleep] is that for? 394 00:17:24,627 --> 00:17:27,420 - So this is for julio, and he starts off the shift 395 00:17:27,505 --> 00:17:29,714 Like this, which is the smiley face. 396 00:17:29,799 --> 00:17:32,050 And then by the end of his shift, he's like this. 397 00:17:32,135 --> 00:17:34,385 You tell us your mood from back there. 398 00:17:34,471 --> 00:17:36,512 - So what kind of mood are you in today? 399 00:17:36,639 --> 00:17:38,681 - I'm in a happy mood. - You're in a happy mood? 400 00:17:38,725 --> 00:17:42,852 - I'm in a happy mood. - Thank [bleep] for that. 401 00:17:42,896 --> 00:17:45,229 Man, this is tight here, right? - Yeah. 402 00:17:45,273 --> 00:17:46,689 - Why is everything so close? 403 00:17:46,775 --> 00:17:48,316 Yeah, what's happened to the gap behind there? 404 00:17:48,443 --> 00:17:50,860 What happened? - Well, going back and forth 405 00:17:50,904 --> 00:17:52,403 Was a challenge for me, and when we had-- 406 00:17:52,447 --> 00:17:54,363 - Going back and forth was a challenge? 407 00:17:54,449 --> 00:17:55,448 - Yeah. - Really? 408 00:17:55,533 --> 00:17:57,116 - It took me a long time, yeah. So we-- 409 00:17:57,160 --> 00:17:58,743 - It takes you a long time to get over there? 410 00:17:58,787 --> 00:18:00,411 - Well, to you get what I have to go and then drop it off 411 00:18:00,455 --> 00:18:02,955 And then bring it back, it was easier for me to kind of-- 412 00:18:03,041 --> 00:18:04,082 - So we're bumping into each other? 413 00:18:04,167 --> 00:18:05,416 I can't get past chef e. 414 00:18:05,460 --> 00:18:07,210 - Yeah, that's my challenge also. 415 00:18:07,295 --> 00:18:09,170 - Your challenge? - Yeah. 416 00:18:09,255 --> 00:18:10,338 We're always bumping into each other. 417 00:18:10,381 --> 00:18:11,839 - You created the challenge. 418 00:18:11,883 --> 00:18:12,840 Come with me. - Sure. 419 00:18:12,967 --> 00:18:14,175 - We're going for a really long walk. 420 00:18:14,302 --> 00:18:16,260 Just step here. Ready? We'll do this together. 421 00:18:16,346 --> 00:18:17,386 - Okay. - It takes a long time 422 00:18:17,472 --> 00:18:19,013 To get the other side of the kitchen. 423 00:18:19,057 --> 00:18:22,308 One, two, three. - [laughs] 424 00:18:22,393 --> 00:18:24,060 - How long did that take? - Didn't take much at all. 425 00:18:24,145 --> 00:18:27,355 It didn't take that long. - 1 1/2 seconds. 426 00:18:27,482 --> 00:18:29,899 He sort of almost encased himself 427 00:18:29,943 --> 00:18:31,651 In this tiny little square. 428 00:18:31,736 --> 00:18:33,861 All this space. 429 00:18:33,905 --> 00:18:35,780 This is so weird. 430 00:18:35,865 --> 00:18:37,156 Kitchens shouldn't be run like that. 431 00:18:37,283 --> 00:18:38,741 They should be seamless, organized, 432 00:18:38,868 --> 00:18:42,578 And have enough space to navigate. 433 00:18:42,664 --> 00:18:44,997 [upbeat percussive music] 434 00:18:45,125 --> 00:18:47,625 - Fried corn fritters. 435 00:18:47,710 --> 00:18:51,546 ♪ ♪ 436 00:18:55,385 --> 00:18:57,385 - Does the chef ever call orders out? 437 00:18:57,470 --> 00:18:58,386 Does he talk to you? 438 00:18:58,429 --> 00:19:00,179 Is--is it always this silent? 439 00:19:00,265 --> 00:19:02,181 - We're pretty quiet. 440 00:19:02,267 --> 00:19:04,100 - Does he not tell you what's on? 441 00:19:04,144 --> 00:19:05,601 - Um, he'll say sometimes. 442 00:19:05,687 --> 00:19:07,270 - You don't call anything out? 443 00:19:07,313 --> 00:19:09,647 You just read the tickets? - I just read the tickets. 444 00:19:09,732 --> 00:19:11,440 - Wow. 445 00:19:11,526 --> 00:19:17,113 That's a very strange setup, very strange indeed. 446 00:19:17,157 --> 00:19:19,115 Hello. How are we? - Hello. 447 00:19:19,200 --> 00:19:22,076 - How's the food? 448 00:19:25,498 --> 00:19:28,416 - No. A lot of carcass. All: Yeah. 449 00:19:33,590 --> 00:19:34,505 - Enjoy. 450 00:19:37,218 --> 00:19:41,012 For the--the pat that she's doing. 451 00:19:41,055 --> 00:19:42,597 - Crispy, yeah. 452 00:19:46,728 --> 00:19:48,769 [tense music] 453 00:19:48,855 --> 00:19:51,147 [water running] 454 00:19:51,191 --> 00:19:53,316 - That is my fresh shrimp. 455 00:19:53,359 --> 00:20:00,072 ♪ ♪ 456 00:20:01,451 --> 00:20:03,492 - Oh, I didn't put that in. - Julio. 457 00:20:03,536 --> 00:20:07,914 - I know, but I need it for now, chef. 458 00:20:07,999 --> 00:20:09,457 - You need it now? - Yeah. 459 00:20:09,500 --> 00:20:11,667 I'm doing, uh, rice and seafood. 460 00:20:11,794 --> 00:20:14,670 - But you just fast-tracked the defrosting of them. 461 00:20:14,714 --> 00:20:17,548 When you soak them, they just absorb the water. 462 00:20:17,634 --> 00:20:19,508 - Chef, I don't have enough-- - what are you doing? 463 00:20:19,594 --> 00:20:21,802 Whatever flavor, you've washed that off. 464 00:20:21,846 --> 00:20:24,055 It's gone, so they're just gonna turn into rubber. 465 00:20:24,140 --> 00:20:27,016 Oh, julio, julio. 466 00:20:27,060 --> 00:20:30,436 Oh, my god. 467 00:20:30,521 --> 00:20:32,521 - Yes, chef. - What's wrong with you? 468 00:20:32,565 --> 00:20:35,566 - I don't know, chef. I'm tired, chef. I'm trying. 469 00:20:35,652 --> 00:20:37,318 - That's--that's worse than being tired in there. 470 00:20:37,403 --> 00:20:38,653 What's happened there? - I don't have the staff. 471 00:20:38,780 --> 00:20:40,613 I'm really nervous 'cause you're around, and-- 472 00:20:40,657 --> 00:20:42,615 - I'm here to help, julio. 473 00:20:42,700 --> 00:20:44,283 But that there, I mean, it's just like--you're so-- 474 00:20:44,327 --> 00:20:46,369 - It's sloppy. - You know it's sloppy. 475 00:20:46,412 --> 00:20:47,870 - It's sloppy. I know. - [bleep] 476 00:20:47,914 --> 00:20:49,664 - I know. - If your mother walked in, 477 00:20:49,749 --> 00:20:51,123 Would she say? 478 00:20:51,209 --> 00:20:53,125 - She would probably slap me. - She'd be fuming. 479 00:20:53,169 --> 00:20:56,254 - Yeah, she would. - Fuming. It's crazy. 480 00:20:56,297 --> 00:20:59,340 [bleep] 481 00:20:59,425 --> 00:21:02,260 He's just literally cooking like a zombie, no love, 482 00:21:02,345 --> 00:21:04,387 No flare, but more importantly, 483 00:21:04,430 --> 00:21:07,014 Cooking like he doesn't want to be here. 484 00:21:07,058 --> 00:21:09,725 [dramatic music] 485 00:21:09,769 --> 00:21:11,394 [sizzling] 486 00:21:14,983 --> 00:21:16,148 [tense music] 487 00:21:16,234 --> 00:21:17,650 - I'm at puerto rican restaurant 488 00:21:17,735 --> 00:21:19,610 El cantito, 489 00:21:19,696 --> 00:21:22,488 Where it's become clear that chef julio has 490 00:21:22,532 --> 00:21:24,699 Let standards slip. 491 00:21:28,329 --> 00:21:31,956 - I just want this day to be over. 492 00:21:32,041 --> 00:21:36,294 - So I've had to resort to drastic measures. 493 00:21:36,379 --> 00:21:38,629 I've invited renowned puerto rican chef 494 00:21:38,715 --> 00:21:41,507 And star of "next level chef," omi hopper, 495 00:21:41,592 --> 00:21:44,051 To dine undercover. 496 00:21:44,137 --> 00:21:47,013 The most outstanding dish tonight 497 00:21:47,098 --> 00:21:49,974 Was the halibut three ways. 498 00:21:50,018 --> 00:21:51,225 [applause] 499 00:21:51,269 --> 00:21:53,853 That has shown such creativity. 500 00:21:53,896 --> 00:21:56,314 Omi will be dining in disguise 501 00:21:56,399 --> 00:21:59,233 So she's not recognized by debbie or julio. 502 00:22:03,323 --> 00:22:06,407 - Omi is a incredible puerto rican chef 503 00:22:06,492 --> 00:22:10,536 That understands flavors, understands freshness, 504 00:22:10,580 --> 00:22:12,413 But more importantly, cooks from the heart. 505 00:22:12,498 --> 00:22:14,540 Her deep-rooted passion for puerto rican cuisine 506 00:22:14,575 --> 00:22:17,335 Makes her the perfect person to help identify 507 00:22:17,420 --> 00:22:20,004 Just what's going wrong at el cantito. 508 00:22:26,220 --> 00:22:27,762 - You're doing this one. 509 00:22:27,847 --> 00:22:29,305 Okay. 510 00:22:31,934 --> 00:22:33,559 That one. 511 00:22:35,772 --> 00:22:36,812 - Here we go. 512 00:22:36,898 --> 00:22:38,773 - We have the alcapurrias. 513 00:22:38,775 --> 00:22:40,649 I'll put this like this. 514 00:22:40,735 --> 00:22:42,651 - Okay, thank you. 515 00:22:52,997 --> 00:22:54,705 - The fried chicken is already fighting up. 516 00:22:54,749 --> 00:22:56,415 - Uh-huh. [laughs] 517 00:23:01,964 --> 00:23:03,631 - I got you. 518 00:23:03,758 --> 00:23:05,749 - Oh, my god. 519 00:23:05,760 --> 00:23:07,093 Um, what--what-- 520 00:23:07,136 --> 00:23:08,469 - Oh, [bleep]. - Ooh, be careful. 521 00:23:08,596 --> 00:23:09,637 - You okay? - You all right? 522 00:23:09,722 --> 00:23:11,931 - You good? - Is that oil down there? 523 00:23:11,933 --> 00:23:13,182 - Yeah. 524 00:23:13,267 --> 00:23:15,643 - Why is it so [bleep] greasy here? 525 00:23:15,686 --> 00:23:18,646 Is something leaking? - I don't think so. 526 00:23:18,689 --> 00:23:20,856 - Two seconds. Just come out the way a minute. 527 00:23:20,900 --> 00:23:22,525 Well, who cleans this? 528 00:23:22,568 --> 00:23:25,569 Chef, when was the last time you cleaned it? 529 00:23:25,655 --> 00:23:28,114 - Every three months. - Every three months? 530 00:23:28,199 --> 00:23:32,451 But it needs to be cleaned once a week. 531 00:23:32,537 --> 00:23:36,914 Wait. Let me find out... 532 00:23:36,958 --> 00:23:39,333 Oh, [bleep]. 533 00:23:39,377 --> 00:23:40,451 - [bleep] 534 00:23:40,586 --> 00:23:43,879 - That right now is an absolute fire hazard. 535 00:23:43,965 --> 00:23:45,798 - Yeah. - That's full. 536 00:23:45,883 --> 00:23:48,551 All that [bleep] dripping down the back, 537 00:23:48,594 --> 00:23:52,513 Coming down through here, and causing an absolute hazard. 538 00:23:52,598 --> 00:23:54,223 Oh boy. 539 00:23:54,308 --> 00:23:57,726 - Tonight is the worst night in three years. 540 00:23:57,812 --> 00:23:59,145 - What else are you hiding here? 541 00:23:59,230 --> 00:24:00,688 Where's the walk-in refrigeration? 542 00:24:00,773 --> 00:24:03,274 - The refrigeration is downstairs in the basement. 543 00:24:03,317 --> 00:24:07,903 - [bleep] what's the smell in here? 544 00:24:08,030 --> 00:24:09,363 [shudders] 545 00:24:11,701 --> 00:24:13,826 What the [bleep]? 546 00:24:13,911 --> 00:24:17,538 The [bleep] is that? 547 00:24:17,623 --> 00:24:19,790 That was-- 548 00:24:19,876 --> 00:24:21,250 A [bleep] lemon. 549 00:24:21,294 --> 00:24:24,962 Bloody hell. [bleep] 550 00:24:28,801 --> 00:24:31,010 Oh, [bleep]. 551 00:24:31,053 --> 00:24:36,807 Chicken breasts on top of the plantain. 552 00:24:36,851 --> 00:24:38,767 [bleep] 553 00:24:38,853 --> 00:24:41,812 Who the [bleep] is gonna eat that? 554 00:24:41,898 --> 00:24:43,981 Marinated in what? 555 00:24:44,108 --> 00:24:46,901 This just proves that the whole place 556 00:24:46,986 --> 00:24:48,861 Has got a lack of standards. 557 00:24:48,946 --> 00:24:51,947 So sad. 558 00:24:52,033 --> 00:24:54,909 [tense music] 559 00:24:54,994 --> 00:24:56,577 ♪ ♪ 560 00:24:56,621 --> 00:25:00,998 I mean, [bleep]. 561 00:25:01,042 --> 00:25:03,876 These owners have given up, man. 562 00:25:03,961 --> 00:25:06,504 [trills lips] 563 00:25:06,622 --> 00:25:08,088 [bleep] 564 00:25:08,132 --> 00:25:10,257 [toilet flushes] [bleep] 565 00:25:10,384 --> 00:25:12,885 Sorry. [bleep] no, you come out first. 566 00:25:12,970 --> 00:25:14,303 [bleep] sorry. - You sure? 567 00:25:14,388 --> 00:25:16,889 - Yeah, well, I'm more concerned you've seen that now. 568 00:25:16,933 --> 00:25:19,975 Sorry. Oh, [bleep]. 569 00:25:20,019 --> 00:25:22,603 Debbie? What-- 570 00:25:22,647 --> 00:25:24,980 Just stop what you're doing. 571 00:25:25,024 --> 00:25:27,358 What the hell is going on here? 572 00:25:27,401 --> 00:25:31,153 What is that? What is this? 573 00:25:31,197 --> 00:25:35,783 Talk to me, please! What are you doing? 574 00:25:35,868 --> 00:25:39,161 Fresh ones on top of the old one. 575 00:25:39,247 --> 00:25:41,205 Now come on. Talk to me, julio. 576 00:25:41,290 --> 00:25:42,957 - Chef, I-I lost interest, chef. 577 00:25:43,042 --> 00:25:46,252 - Oh, my god, I can't believe this is happening. 578 00:25:46,337 --> 00:25:48,379 - [bleep] 579 00:25:48,464 --> 00:25:51,423 What is this? 580 00:25:53,010 --> 00:25:56,887 What is this? 581 00:25:56,973 --> 00:25:59,640 Talk to me, julio. 582 00:25:59,725 --> 00:26:01,850 [coughs] 583 00:26:01,894 --> 00:26:03,978 - It's bad. - It's what? 584 00:26:04,021 --> 00:26:05,312 - It's bad. It's ham. 585 00:26:05,356 --> 00:26:08,691 - This is basic cleanliness. 586 00:26:08,734 --> 00:26:11,026 This is dangerous. 587 00:26:11,112 --> 00:26:15,447 Stop taking orders and ask those customers, politely, 588 00:26:15,533 --> 00:26:18,409 To get the [bleep] out of here now. 589 00:26:18,452 --> 00:26:19,326 Now! - I-- 590 00:26:19,412 --> 00:26:21,370 - Now, now, now! [clapping] 591 00:26:21,497 --> 00:26:22,413 - Hello, guys. 592 00:26:22,665 --> 00:26:25,291 Um, so we're having a bit of a problem, 593 00:26:25,334 --> 00:26:29,086 And we're having everyone leave. 594 00:26:29,130 --> 00:26:32,256 I'm so sorry about that. 595 00:26:32,300 --> 00:26:33,757 Bye-bye, guys. Have a good one. 596 00:26:33,801 --> 00:26:36,093 - All right. Thank you. 597 00:26:36,137 --> 00:26:39,263 - You have dignity and respect and self-esteem. 598 00:26:39,307 --> 00:26:41,473 - Yes. My mom taught me, yes. 599 00:26:41,559 --> 00:26:42,558 - And none of that is being practiced 600 00:26:42,602 --> 00:26:44,351 On a daily basis in here. - I did. 601 00:26:44,437 --> 00:26:48,731 - What do you mean, "I did"? I'm talking about the present! 602 00:26:48,774 --> 00:26:50,357 We're in the [bleep]. 603 00:26:50,401 --> 00:26:53,902 - I know. I know we [bleep]. 604 00:26:53,988 --> 00:26:56,113 - You can dig deeper, 605 00:26:56,198 --> 00:26:58,198 And you can step up to the mark. 606 00:26:58,284 --> 00:27:01,660 We can't do it without a fight. 607 00:27:01,746 --> 00:27:06,040 My big question is, do you have it in you? 608 00:27:06,042 --> 00:27:08,876 [dramatic music] 609 00:27:08,961 --> 00:27:11,253 ♪ ♪ 610 00:27:11,339 --> 00:27:13,088 [sizzling] 611 00:27:16,218 --> 00:27:17,968 - I'm in yonkers, new york. 612 00:27:18,012 --> 00:27:20,179 I've had to shut down family-run restaurant 613 00:27:20,264 --> 00:27:22,181 El cantito due to the kitchen's lack 614 00:27:22,266 --> 00:27:26,435 Of hygiene and safety standards. 615 00:27:26,520 --> 00:27:28,812 - I haven't lost it, deb. You know I-- 616 00:27:28,856 --> 00:27:32,691 - I know. I know you have it. - You know that I'm still here. 617 00:27:32,777 --> 00:27:35,277 And I wanna make this place great, you know that. 618 00:27:35,321 --> 00:27:37,863 - I know, and we're gonna make it great. 619 00:27:37,907 --> 00:27:39,156 [moving piano music] 620 00:27:39,200 --> 00:27:40,991 The reason why I put up that money is 621 00:27:41,035 --> 00:27:42,076 Because I believe in you. 622 00:27:42,119 --> 00:27:44,703 I ate your food all my life. 623 00:27:44,789 --> 00:27:46,830 Our friends, our family, we know 624 00:27:46,916 --> 00:27:48,123 That your food is good. 625 00:27:48,209 --> 00:27:50,417 That is the reason why I trusted my money 626 00:27:50,461 --> 00:27:52,753 Into your passion. 627 00:27:52,838 --> 00:27:54,755 ♪ ♪ 628 00:27:54,799 --> 00:28:00,010 - Debbie, julio, I... 629 00:28:00,137 --> 00:28:02,304 I need to see you both here. 630 00:28:02,390 --> 00:28:05,307 I feel that julio, he's bringing himself down, 631 00:28:05,351 --> 00:28:07,434 The restaurant down, but more importantly, 632 00:28:07,478 --> 00:28:08,811 His family down. 633 00:28:09,021 --> 00:28:12,606 If you wanna play the big chef with your name on the jacket 634 00:28:12,692 --> 00:28:16,443 And the big intro as you walk through the door, then step up. 635 00:28:16,562 --> 00:28:18,821 You're not being true to yourself. 636 00:28:18,906 --> 00:28:21,365 The way you're performing, 637 00:28:21,409 --> 00:28:27,705 It's downright disrespectful to here. 638 00:28:27,748 --> 00:28:33,043 I love puerto rico. I fell in love with that place. 639 00:28:33,087 --> 00:28:35,295 And I reached out to a friend of mine. 640 00:28:35,339 --> 00:28:38,549 I said, just-- just come and eat. 641 00:28:38,592 --> 00:28:41,593 And trust me, she knows her puerto rican food, 642 00:28:41,637 --> 00:28:45,889 Let me tell you, because she is a phenomenon. 643 00:28:45,933 --> 00:28:48,851 [dramatic music] 644 00:28:48,894 --> 00:28:52,146 ♪ ♪ 645 00:28:52,231 --> 00:28:53,814 Please would you take your glasses 646 00:28:53,858 --> 00:28:55,274 And your wig off, please? 647 00:28:55,317 --> 00:28:57,818 This is-- - hola, mi gente. 648 00:28:57,945 --> 00:29:00,487 - This is omi. - It's me under here. 649 00:29:00,573 --> 00:29:02,990 - You'll recognize her from "next level chef." 650 00:29:03,033 --> 00:29:06,326 - It's amazing to have omi in the restaurant. 651 00:29:07,329 --> 00:29:09,830 - My god. 652 00:29:09,915 --> 00:29:12,040 - Omi was present tonight, 653 00:29:12,126 --> 00:29:15,085 Having dinner, my eyes and ears. 654 00:29:15,129 --> 00:29:16,462 - This is crazy. 655 00:29:16,547 --> 00:29:18,505 I actually attended to her, and I didn't realize. 656 00:29:18,549 --> 00:29:19,840 Was that embarrassing a little bit? 657 00:29:19,884 --> 00:29:21,508 Oh, my god. 658 00:29:21,552 --> 00:29:25,429 - If you would describe tonight's experience, 659 00:29:25,431 --> 00:29:27,848 How would you put that in your own words, omi? 660 00:29:27,933 --> 00:29:32,186 - It's really tough because when I go and I eat our food, 661 00:29:32,229 --> 00:29:33,771 I expect a level of excellence. 662 00:29:33,856 --> 00:29:37,316 And there was just so many things that it was lacking. 663 00:29:37,359 --> 00:29:39,318 So greasy. 664 00:29:39,403 --> 00:29:42,738 If that is someone's first experience 665 00:29:42,782 --> 00:29:46,325 Eating puerto rican food, would they come back? 666 00:29:46,368 --> 00:29:48,410 [tense music] 667 00:29:48,454 --> 00:29:49,745 ♪ ♪ 668 00:29:49,997 --> 00:29:54,416 There is a level of excellence that we have to strive for. 669 00:29:54,502 --> 00:29:56,168 [gentle music] 670 00:29:56,295 --> 00:29:59,254 - Why has that love gone from your food? 671 00:29:59,340 --> 00:30:02,633 Do you want this? - Hell yeah. 672 00:30:02,676 --> 00:30:06,428 I wake up every morning wanting to cook with that passion 673 00:30:06,514 --> 00:30:10,682 I've always done it for, since I was 14 years old, chef, 674 00:30:10,726 --> 00:30:11,850 Cooking with my mom. 675 00:30:11,977 --> 00:30:15,312 I love to cook. 676 00:30:15,347 --> 00:30:17,564 - And if your mother was sat with omi tonight? 677 00:30:17,608 --> 00:30:20,234 - She would be embarrassed. 678 00:30:20,277 --> 00:30:23,362 - We have to get that fire back. 679 00:30:23,405 --> 00:30:25,030 The fire was there, the first year. 680 00:30:25,115 --> 00:30:26,281 We have to get it back, 681 00:30:26,325 --> 00:30:27,658 And the first year was our toughest year. 682 00:30:27,743 --> 00:30:31,161 - What she just said, that's how I want to hear you, 683 00:30:31,247 --> 00:30:34,957 With that desire, and that fight, that spirit. 684 00:30:35,000 --> 00:30:35,916 And that's the only thing that's gonna 685 00:30:36,001 --> 00:30:38,752 Dig you out of this hole. 686 00:30:38,838 --> 00:30:41,004 Now it's been a long day. 687 00:30:41,090 --> 00:30:42,714 What I am gonna tell you is 688 00:30:42,800 --> 00:30:45,384 That there are big changes coming. 689 00:30:45,427 --> 00:30:47,845 I wanna say a special thank you to you and your girlfriends, 690 00:30:47,888 --> 00:30:50,055 And would you come back tomorrow night? 691 00:30:50,140 --> 00:30:51,390 Just give us 24 hours. - Absolutely. 692 00:30:51,433 --> 00:30:53,517 - I appreciate it. I'll see you tomorrow. 693 00:30:53,561 --> 00:30:56,728 Take care. Thanks. - Bye, mama. Gracias. 694 00:30:56,856 --> 00:30:59,273 [dramatic music] 695 00:30:59,358 --> 00:31:02,651 - I want you to take a moment, and to thank your sister 696 00:31:02,695 --> 00:31:05,320 Like you've never done in the last three years, 697 00:31:05,406 --> 00:31:06,613 Because she's always been there. 698 00:31:06,699 --> 00:31:09,449 You need to think about stress, and how hard it is 699 00:31:09,535 --> 00:31:11,910 Bringing two jobs into this business 700 00:31:11,912 --> 00:31:15,289 To keep the lights on. 701 00:31:15,374 --> 00:31:19,418 - Deb, I never get to talk, so I never tell you this. 702 00:31:19,461 --> 00:31:23,005 But I appreciate you so... - I know. 703 00:31:23,132 --> 00:31:24,548 - Much. - I know. 704 00:31:24,633 --> 00:31:27,384 - And I'm proud of you. 705 00:31:27,428 --> 00:31:30,387 And I know you believe in me. - I do. 706 00:31:30,431 --> 00:31:33,015 - I'm sorry if I disappointed you, 707 00:31:33,058 --> 00:31:36,226 And I'm sorry if I-- if I got too comfortable, or-- 708 00:31:36,270 --> 00:31:39,062 You mean so much to me. 709 00:31:39,148 --> 00:31:40,689 - I know. - You know that, right? 710 00:31:40,774 --> 00:31:42,441 - And you mean a whole lot to me. 711 00:31:42,484 --> 00:31:47,446 We got this. We got this. We got it. We got it. 712 00:31:47,531 --> 00:31:50,282 - When gordon told me that I cook like I don't care, 713 00:31:50,326 --> 00:31:53,660 It stung, because it's true. 714 00:31:53,704 --> 00:31:55,537 And I don't wanna disappoint my sister. 715 00:31:55,581 --> 00:31:57,497 You know, she's my number one fan. 716 00:31:57,583 --> 00:31:58,749 She's, like, my rock. 717 00:31:58,834 --> 00:32:00,292 She--you know, she--she pushes me. 718 00:32:00,336 --> 00:32:01,668 - Bring it back to that kitchen. 719 00:32:01,712 --> 00:32:03,879 Bring it back. 720 00:32:03,964 --> 00:32:05,631 [sizzling] 721 00:32:09,303 --> 00:32:11,511 - Last night, I closed el cantito 722 00:32:11,597 --> 00:32:13,388 And called out chef julio for his lack 723 00:32:13,432 --> 00:32:15,766 Of hygiene and passion in the kitchen. 724 00:32:15,851 --> 00:32:19,269 Overnight, my team have renovated the restaurant, 725 00:32:19,313 --> 00:32:21,647 Ready for today's relaunch. 726 00:32:21,732 --> 00:32:24,149 I've invited julio and his sister back to see 727 00:32:24,234 --> 00:32:26,443 The changes, and hopefully 728 00:32:26,528 --> 00:32:28,987 Reignite their passion for their cuisine 729 00:32:29,073 --> 00:32:31,323 And the restaurant. 730 00:32:31,367 --> 00:32:33,367 - Wow! 731 00:32:33,452 --> 00:32:35,744 - Welcome to the grand reopening 732 00:32:35,788 --> 00:32:37,996 Of el cantito. 733 00:32:38,082 --> 00:32:40,415 - Wow. - Take it in. 734 00:32:40,501 --> 00:32:44,378 We have a brand-new air conditioning system. 735 00:32:44,421 --> 00:32:45,420 - It's amazing. 736 00:32:45,464 --> 00:32:48,048 - And then to the tropical colors. 737 00:32:48,133 --> 00:32:50,050 - Mar chiquita! - Mar chiquita. 738 00:32:50,135 --> 00:32:51,635 That was my mother's playground. 739 00:32:51,762 --> 00:32:54,596 She used to always tell us stories about being there. 740 00:32:54,682 --> 00:32:56,473 - Home, sweet home, my darling. 741 00:32:56,558 --> 00:33:00,185 - It's like you're walking into a little café 742 00:33:00,270 --> 00:33:03,188 On the beach in manatí. 743 00:33:03,273 --> 00:33:07,943 - Opposite that beautiful place is one more. 744 00:33:08,028 --> 00:33:10,988 - Ay, mami! [laughs] 745 00:33:11,031 --> 00:33:12,906 - Amazing surprise. - Wow. 746 00:33:12,992 --> 00:33:15,450 That's her, her kitchen. 747 00:33:15,494 --> 00:33:18,412 - If you ever needed any inspiration... 748 00:33:18,455 --> 00:33:20,414 - Absolutely. - Take a glance. 749 00:33:20,457 --> 00:33:24,001 This is the lady that deserves the pride of place, agreed? 750 00:33:24,044 --> 00:33:26,420 - Yeah. Yeah. 751 00:33:26,463 --> 00:33:29,089 My mom's picture, it reminds me we do have 752 00:33:29,174 --> 00:33:30,924 That puerto rico in us, that fire. 753 00:33:31,010 --> 00:33:34,469 - It's the first point of reference, 754 00:33:34,555 --> 00:33:38,432 And personally, the only reference we need. 755 00:33:38,517 --> 00:33:41,560 - Seeing that picture, to me, she said, "you got this." 756 00:33:41,645 --> 00:33:44,271 To him, she was like, "you better get it together." 757 00:33:44,314 --> 00:33:46,940 - Let this be our compass. 758 00:33:46,984 --> 00:33:48,900 - Thank you so much. 759 00:33:48,986 --> 00:33:51,111 - There's one more thing I'd like to show you. 760 00:33:51,155 --> 00:33:52,612 It's called a kitchen. Follow me. 761 00:33:52,698 --> 00:33:54,781 [both laugh] - go ahead. 762 00:33:54,825 --> 00:33:56,033 [emotional music] 763 00:33:56,118 --> 00:33:58,201 - I've placed everything back, 764 00:33:58,287 --> 00:34:00,912 So you've got a lot more space to work. 765 00:34:00,998 --> 00:34:04,332 - The rotisserie. - My god! 766 00:34:05,419 --> 00:34:07,461 - I can't even speak... - Yeah. 767 00:34:07,546 --> 00:34:10,130 - How happy I am right now... - This is incredible. 768 00:34:10,174 --> 00:34:11,506 - How relieved and... - Oh, my god. 769 00:34:11,550 --> 00:34:12,591 - Refreshed I feel. 770 00:34:12,718 --> 00:34:14,968 - We have a new refrigerated salad bar, 771 00:34:15,054 --> 00:34:16,386 Fully equipped. 772 00:34:16,430 --> 00:34:19,222 - Thank you. - If you as much as touch 773 00:34:19,266 --> 00:34:21,141 Any of this and reposition it... 774 00:34:21,185 --> 00:34:22,142 - I will-- - no, I will. 775 00:34:22,227 --> 00:34:23,769 - Promise me you will call me. 776 00:34:23,812 --> 00:34:26,146 - [laughs] 777 00:34:26,231 --> 00:34:30,776 - This is amazing. This is so amazing. 778 00:34:30,819 --> 00:34:32,319 We definitely got this. 779 00:34:32,362 --> 00:34:35,530 ♪ ♪ 780 00:34:35,565 --> 00:34:37,949 - Come and take a seat. 781 00:34:37,993 --> 00:34:39,409 [uplifting music] 782 00:34:39,453 --> 00:34:41,745 We've gone back to the beginning 783 00:34:41,830 --> 00:34:43,622 With mama's recipes. 784 00:34:43,665 --> 00:34:46,291 We've updated her recipes with fresh ingredients. 785 00:34:46,335 --> 00:34:48,752 The food is now light, bright, with minimal grease. 786 00:34:48,837 --> 00:34:52,214 And we've written mum's recipes down. 787 00:34:52,299 --> 00:34:53,423 [both laugh] some delicious appetizers. 788 00:34:53,467 --> 00:34:56,176 We've got a beautiful, crispy... 789 00:34:56,220 --> 00:34:57,511 All: Bacalaítos. 790 00:34:57,554 --> 00:35:00,222 - Crunchy, crispy, and that beautiful salt cod 791 00:35:00,307 --> 00:35:02,140 Running through the middle. - Wow. 792 00:35:02,184 --> 00:35:05,227 - Next to that, we have a beautiful ceviche. 793 00:35:05,229 --> 00:35:06,478 Just look at the vibrancy and the colors 794 00:35:06,522 --> 00:35:07,646 Running through there. 795 00:35:07,689 --> 00:35:08,563 - Amazing. 796 00:35:08,690 --> 00:35:10,148 - Then we've got mofongo, 797 00:35:10,234 --> 00:35:12,776 And it's served with a chicken broth, 798 00:35:12,861 --> 00:35:14,653 Very traditional. 799 00:35:14,738 --> 00:35:18,657 This was your dream, so you have to commit to that dream. 800 00:35:18,742 --> 00:35:19,991 - Absolutely. 801 00:35:20,077 --> 00:35:21,660 - My mother used to always say it. 802 00:35:21,703 --> 00:35:23,787 She was like, "I want to give you guys this." 803 00:35:23,872 --> 00:35:27,290 And this is that and more. 804 00:35:27,334 --> 00:35:29,543 I won't have to work my extra job. 805 00:35:29,628 --> 00:35:33,755 And this is where I belong. - Mm-hmm. I agree. 806 00:35:33,841 --> 00:35:36,258 - My heart feels overjoyed. 807 00:35:36,343 --> 00:35:39,010 This is her recipes. This is el cantito cafe. 808 00:35:39,054 --> 00:35:40,387 This is what I wanted to open. 809 00:35:40,430 --> 00:35:45,058 Bacalaítos. Yep. On point. On point. 810 00:35:45,060 --> 00:35:47,435 - I am super excited 811 00:35:47,479 --> 00:35:52,274 To cook my mom's recipes in this amazing kitchen. 812 00:35:52,359 --> 00:35:53,733 Both: Hey, chef. - How's it going? 813 00:35:53,819 --> 00:35:54,734 - How are you? 814 00:35:54,862 --> 00:35:56,444 - How are you feeling? - I'm good. 815 00:35:56,488 --> 00:35:58,780 - Now that julio has all the equipment needed 816 00:35:58,824 --> 00:35:59,990 For success... 817 00:36:00,033 --> 00:36:01,158 Okay. 818 00:36:01,201 --> 00:36:03,034 I'm giving him a crash course 819 00:36:03,162 --> 00:36:06,288 In the culinary arts to get him ready for service. 820 00:36:06,331 --> 00:36:10,417 First of all, just open up. Just let the knife do the work. 821 00:36:10,460 --> 00:36:13,044 God, look how moist that is. How beautiful is that? 822 00:36:13,130 --> 00:36:15,255 Plus a little drizzle of the lime. 823 00:36:15,299 --> 00:36:17,340 And then we just take our kosher salt, 824 00:36:17,426 --> 00:36:20,177 And we give that a little season. 825 00:36:20,262 --> 00:36:22,929 Dressing on the side. And that is it. 826 00:36:23,015 --> 00:36:25,390 Bang. To the window. 827 00:36:25,475 --> 00:36:27,976 - Ramsay, he gives me, like, these little tips. 828 00:36:28,020 --> 00:36:29,269 It's really good. It's a very good feeling. 829 00:36:29,313 --> 00:36:31,146 I haven't felt like this in a really long time. 830 00:36:31,231 --> 00:36:33,315 - The only thing I need is the voice. 831 00:36:33,400 --> 00:36:36,151 Let's bring that passion and communicate, yes? 832 00:36:36,278 --> 00:36:37,694 - Yes, chef. - Good luck. 833 00:36:37,779 --> 00:36:39,029 Let's go, my man. 834 00:36:39,114 --> 00:36:40,906 It's time to open the restaurant doors. 835 00:36:40,991 --> 00:36:42,407 [upbeat music] 836 00:36:42,451 --> 00:36:45,452 - Hi. Welcome. - We gotta go. 837 00:36:45,495 --> 00:36:48,288 For tonight's relaunch, I've invited a host of guests, 838 00:36:48,332 --> 00:36:50,081 Including omi, who agreed 839 00:36:50,167 --> 00:36:52,375 To give el cantito a second chance. 840 00:36:52,419 --> 00:36:54,294 - So what would we like to try? 841 00:36:54,379 --> 00:36:56,588 - I really, really want to try the chillo frito. 842 00:36:56,632 --> 00:36:58,256 - Chillo? Okay, sure. 843 00:36:58,300 --> 00:36:59,925 - We got this. - I'm good? 844 00:37:00,010 --> 00:37:00,967 - We got this. 845 00:37:01,053 --> 00:37:02,552 - This is a whole new julio. 846 00:37:02,596 --> 00:37:05,013 He seems a little bit more enthusiastic. 847 00:37:05,057 --> 00:37:06,264 - We're live. First order in. 848 00:37:06,350 --> 00:37:08,266 I want to hear it. Let's go. - Yes. All right. 849 00:37:08,352 --> 00:37:10,810 - Tonight, julio is gonna find that passion, 850 00:37:10,896 --> 00:37:12,145 The desire, the hunger. 851 00:37:12,189 --> 00:37:13,980 He owes it not just to his mum, 852 00:37:14,066 --> 00:37:15,357 But to his sister. 853 00:37:15,442 --> 00:37:17,734 Okay. Call it out, please. - All right. Chef, b3. 854 00:37:17,778 --> 00:37:19,819 We have baca-- two bacalaítos... 855 00:37:19,821 --> 00:37:21,446 - Perfect. - Two chicharrones, 856 00:37:21,531 --> 00:37:22,739 Ceviche, one ceviche. 857 00:37:22,783 --> 00:37:24,157 - Excellent. 858 00:37:24,201 --> 00:37:25,867 - Salud, salud, salud. - Cheers. 859 00:37:25,953 --> 00:37:27,160 - Okay. 30 seconds out. 860 00:37:27,246 --> 00:37:30,121 - Check on the chicharron. 861 00:37:30,165 --> 00:37:32,123 How much longer, chef? - 30 seconds. 862 00:37:32,167 --> 00:37:34,042 - Okay. - That's nice. 863 00:37:34,127 --> 00:37:35,785 [bell rings] bing. 864 00:37:35,879 --> 00:37:37,337 - Enjoy. 865 00:37:37,422 --> 00:37:38,880 - It's like, crispy, but then it just melts 866 00:37:38,966 --> 00:37:40,465 In your mouth right after. 867 00:37:43,762 --> 00:37:44,761 - How are they? 868 00:37:48,183 --> 00:37:50,016 - Wow, that's amazing. - Oh, my god. 869 00:37:50,060 --> 00:37:53,395 The seasoning is so flavorful. 870 00:37:53,522 --> 00:37:54,854 - Okay. Good, so-- 871 00:37:54,940 --> 00:37:57,816 I love the fact you're crossing tables off. 872 00:37:57,859 --> 00:37:59,985 - The party has arrived, girl. - Yes! 873 00:38:00,070 --> 00:38:01,319 - Now we're filling up. 874 00:38:01,405 --> 00:38:03,655 - So two baca and two chicharron, 875 00:38:03,740 --> 00:38:05,907 And one ceviche. 876 00:38:05,993 --> 00:38:09,869 - What's next, please? - Uh-- 877 00:38:09,997 --> 00:38:11,288 - Bloody hell. 878 00:38:11,331 --> 00:38:13,665 - How's everything, guys? 879 00:38:15,877 --> 00:38:18,044 - Yes, let me check on that, yes. 880 00:38:18,130 --> 00:38:21,339 Um, julio, there's something missing from 21, 881 00:38:21,425 --> 00:38:24,551 A mofongo with chicken. 882 00:38:24,594 --> 00:38:26,928 - I-I gave you the mofongo and the chicken there. 883 00:38:27,014 --> 00:38:32,684 - That was for 24. - Uh... 884 00:38:32,769 --> 00:38:34,561 - Julio, all good? - Yes. Yes, chef. 885 00:38:34,646 --> 00:38:36,563 - What's going next? - We are working on b3. 886 00:38:36,606 --> 00:38:38,440 - You can't just keep on guessing what he wants. 887 00:38:38,525 --> 00:38:40,025 He needs to talk to you. You know that, right? 888 00:38:40,110 --> 00:38:43,111 - Um, tasha-- - yes, chef. Sorry. 889 00:38:43,196 --> 00:38:44,779 - You're finishing my order, right? 890 00:38:44,865 --> 00:38:45,780 - Yes, I'm-- - okay. 891 00:38:45,866 --> 00:38:47,407 - Take it, mami. 892 00:38:47,451 --> 00:38:49,075 - We're in the middle of service now, and he's sort of 893 00:38:49,161 --> 00:38:50,410 Starting to shut down a little bit. 894 00:38:50,454 --> 00:38:53,079 He gets so overwhelmed too easy. 895 00:38:53,165 --> 00:38:55,415 What--what's happened to him? 896 00:38:55,500 --> 00:38:58,585 - Yes, I mean, he is the [bleep] wet lettuce man. 897 00:38:58,670 --> 00:38:59,586 [bleep] 898 00:38:59,671 --> 00:39:01,296 [sizzling] 899 00:39:07,304 --> 00:39:08,470 - Don't put it up there. Don't put it up there. 900 00:39:08,513 --> 00:39:10,847 It's not done yet. It's not done yet. 901 00:39:10,932 --> 00:39:12,807 - I'm in yonkers, 902 00:39:12,851 --> 00:39:15,727 Where the restaurant el cantito is relaunching. 903 00:39:15,771 --> 00:39:16,936 - Put in the chicken now. 904 00:39:16,980 --> 00:39:18,563 - Halfway through service, 905 00:39:18,648 --> 00:39:20,815 Chef julio is having problems. 906 00:39:20,817 --> 00:39:22,692 - Oh, [bleep]. 26. 907 00:39:22,736 --> 00:39:24,319 [bell rings] 908 00:39:24,404 --> 00:39:25,653 - Where's the crackling from here? 909 00:39:25,697 --> 00:39:26,863 Remember the crackling on top? 910 00:39:26,948 --> 00:39:28,573 No, no, just leave it. Bring the crackling. 911 00:39:28,700 --> 00:39:32,077 - Give me one second. Let me--let me get my--hold on. 912 00:39:32,162 --> 00:39:33,536 I started to break down. I started to-- 913 00:39:33,580 --> 00:39:36,289 To shut down, and you know, I'm done. 914 00:39:36,333 --> 00:39:38,249 - Hey, I'm here to help. Both: Okay. 915 00:39:38,335 --> 00:39:39,459 - Crackling. Think about it, yes? 916 00:39:39,586 --> 00:39:41,002 - All right. - 'member what I said to y'all 917 00:39:41,088 --> 00:39:41,961 About stepping up? - Yes. 918 00:39:42,047 --> 00:39:44,214 - Okay. Let's go. Come on. Yeah? 919 00:39:44,299 --> 00:39:46,049 - And he calmed me right then and there. 920 00:39:46,051 --> 00:39:47,258 I was like, "oh, okay." 921 00:39:47,302 --> 00:39:51,012 Six mofongos with pernil for table 22 and 25. 922 00:39:51,098 --> 00:39:53,348 And we went right back into that rhythm. 923 00:39:53,433 --> 00:39:55,975 After that, you're gonna work with b3. 924 00:39:56,019 --> 00:39:58,770 We got this. - All right. 925 00:39:58,814 --> 00:40:01,064 - 21. 926 00:40:01,191 --> 00:40:03,441 - Hey, how does it feel to be talking? 927 00:40:03,485 --> 00:40:04,984 It feels good? - Feels good. It feels very g-- 928 00:40:05,070 --> 00:40:06,903 - Good. Welcome back. - Thank you. 929 00:40:06,988 --> 00:40:08,154 - Let's go. - [laughs] 930 00:40:08,240 --> 00:40:09,531 - Ceviche was-- - everything's been so good. 931 00:40:09,616 --> 00:40:11,574 - Oh, good, good, good. Thank you so much, guys. 932 00:40:11,618 --> 00:40:12,700 Appreciate your compliments. 933 00:40:12,744 --> 00:40:13,827 I'm elated. 934 00:40:13,954 --> 00:40:15,245 This is the feeling that I wanted 935 00:40:15,330 --> 00:40:18,998 To have when I opened my doors, 936 00:40:19,042 --> 00:40:20,417 The dining room full, 937 00:40:20,460 --> 00:40:23,837 Clicking of the utensils on the plates. 938 00:40:23,922 --> 00:40:25,296 This is el cantito cafe. 939 00:40:25,382 --> 00:40:28,258 That dining room is on fire! [bell dings] 940 00:40:28,301 --> 00:40:31,553 - I'm super excited because I have a system that works. 941 00:40:31,638 --> 00:40:34,973 I feel like, "oh, my god, I can breathe! I'm good!" 942 00:40:40,647 --> 00:40:42,814 [chatter] 943 00:40:42,899 --> 00:40:45,400 - Right. Well done. 944 00:40:45,444 --> 00:40:49,154 You have a absolute jewel here-- 945 00:40:49,197 --> 00:40:51,448 Stunning restaurant, beautiful family, 946 00:40:51,533 --> 00:40:55,243 Great food, lovely atmosphere, okay? 947 00:40:55,287 --> 00:40:57,036 Look after each other... - Absolutely. 948 00:40:57,122 --> 00:40:59,289 - And look after the restaurant, okay? 949 00:40:59,332 --> 00:41:01,040 - Mm-hmm. - Don't let her down. 950 00:41:01,126 --> 00:41:02,125 - No. - 'cause if you do, 951 00:41:02,169 --> 00:41:03,209 You'll hear from me. 952 00:41:03,295 --> 00:41:04,335 - Oh, I know. - Again. 953 00:41:04,421 --> 00:41:06,838 My time is done. 954 00:41:06,882 --> 00:41:07,881 - Thank you. 955 00:41:07,966 --> 00:41:10,717 - Good luck. 956 00:41:10,760 --> 00:41:15,847 I see a bright, successful future for el cantito. 957 00:41:15,932 --> 00:41:19,893 You can feel in the room the energy and the love, 958 00:41:19,978 --> 00:41:22,312 And my mom's legacy being out there. 959 00:41:22,355 --> 00:41:24,355 - Come here, you. - Thank you. 960 00:41:24,399 --> 00:41:25,940 - Oh, my god. 961 00:41:25,984 --> 00:41:29,235 - This has been an experience that I never even dreamed of. 962 00:41:29,321 --> 00:41:32,697 And I truly, truly, from the bottom of my heart, 963 00:41:32,782 --> 00:41:36,701 Appreciate gordon ramsay for saving our restaurant. 964 00:41:36,745 --> 00:41:38,620 [sweet music] 965 00:41:38,663 --> 00:41:40,914 ♪ ♪ 966 00:41:40,999 --> 00:41:42,165 - [exhales] what a week. 967 00:41:42,250 --> 00:41:43,866 Honestly, when I first arrived, 968 00:41:43,919 --> 00:41:45,251 I found a puerto rican restaurant 969 00:41:45,295 --> 00:41:48,004 That had drifted so far from its island roots, 970 00:41:48,048 --> 00:41:49,797 The owners had lost their passion 971 00:41:49,883 --> 00:41:52,008 And their love for food. 972 00:41:52,043 --> 00:41:53,551 But I promise you now, 973 00:41:53,595 --> 00:41:55,845 Debbie and julio have everything they need 974 00:41:55,889 --> 00:41:58,556 To sail this restaurant into the sunset. 975 00:41:58,600 --> 00:42:01,643 But my only worry is, if julio decides to slip back 976 00:42:01,728 --> 00:42:07,524 To his old ways again, el cantito could sink forever. 977 00:42:09,694 --> 00:42:11,653 - I'm ready to plate the-- the ceviche, chef. 978 00:42:11,780 --> 00:42:15,240 - With a fresh start and a revitalized menu... 979 00:42:15,325 --> 00:42:16,533 [bell dings] 980 00:42:16,660 --> 00:42:18,701 Julio's passion for cooking has returned... 981 00:42:18,745 --> 00:42:20,245 - Chicken is done. 982 00:42:20,330 --> 00:42:22,288 - And so have the customers. 983 00:42:22,332 --> 00:42:23,915 - There's a lot of people out there. 984 00:42:24,000 --> 00:42:26,251 - Debbie is committed to keeping julio 985 00:42:26,294 --> 00:42:28,586 And el cantito on the right course, 986 00:42:28,630 --> 00:42:32,840 To create a lasting family legacy in their community. 987 00:42:32,884 --> 00:42:34,926 Next time on "kitchen nightmares"... 988 00:42:35,011 --> 00:42:36,344 - Just a few more minutes, okay? 989 00:42:36,429 --> 00:42:38,429 We're just waiting on your food, okay? 990 00:42:38,473 --> 00:42:39,973 He said it's overcooked. - At the end of the day, 991 00:42:40,016 --> 00:42:41,224 I could give two [bleep]. 992 00:42:41,309 --> 00:42:42,350 - Going to sleep at night, 993 00:42:42,435 --> 00:42:44,143 Thinking about the debt that I'm in-- 994 00:42:44,187 --> 00:42:46,604 I'm struggling! - So go get another job too. 995 00:42:46,690 --> 00:42:49,274 Kelly and I do have a toxic relationship. 996 00:42:49,401 --> 00:42:51,359 - I don't know how to fix it. - Come here. 997 00:42:51,403 --> 00:42:53,027 It's cold in the middle, just another reason 998 00:42:53,071 --> 00:42:54,529 To confirm that you don't give a [bleep]. 999 00:42:54,573 --> 00:42:55,947 - You know what he's gonna do? He's gonna go to the bank. 1000 00:42:56,032 --> 00:42:58,741 He's gonna take all the money. I won't have any money. 1001 00:42:58,827 --> 00:43:00,451 - You're robbing her! 1002 00:43:00,495 --> 00:43:03,288 [dramatic music]