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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.
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00:00:24,275 --> 00:00:28,027
It started from mami's kitchen
when we were growing up.
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00:00:28,112 --> 00:00:29,903
- So my mom was a great cook.
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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
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00:00:33,617 --> 00:00:35,200
In the kitchen,
and he became very passionate.
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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.
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00:00:41,959 --> 00:00:43,500
My parents both are deceased,
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00:00:43,586 --> 00:00:45,419
And these are
my grandma's recipes.
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00:00:45,463 --> 00:00:48,130
In 2017, I took
an early retirement.
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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.
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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.
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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,
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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.
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00:01:23,209 --> 00:01:26,794
- We used all our money
to survive.
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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.
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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...
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00:02:23,310 --> 00:02:25,269
- Really salty?
- It is, yeah.
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00:02:26,689 --> 00:02:28,522
- It's stressful.
And it's hard.
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00:02:31,861 --> 00:02:33,610
- This is unbelievable.
This is unreal.
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00:02:33,654 --> 00:02:37,948
- I have seen the--
the decline in his passion.
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00:02:38,033 --> 00:02:41,326
I know that his fire is out
because he's tired,
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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.
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00:02:49,628 --> 00:02:51,336
- You know, it's times
that we have gone through
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00:02:51,380 --> 00:02:53,213
In the past during service
where it's like,
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00:02:53,299 --> 00:02:57,259
We say bare minimum
to each other.
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00:02:57,303 --> 00:02:59,219
- I'm debbie's daughter,
and I'm julio's niece.
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00:02:59,221 --> 00:03:01,180
Things have been really tough,
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00:03:01,265 --> 00:03:03,056
To the point where my mom had
to get another job.
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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,
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00:03:27,917 --> 00:03:30,125
The doors are going to close.
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00:03:30,211 --> 00:03:32,878
- I need help.
I need--I--we need help.
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00:03:32,922 --> 00:03:36,340
- Crazy, it doesn't take
that long to plate.
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00:03:36,425 --> 00:03:37,925
[bleep]
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00:03:38,010 --> 00:03:41,220
♪ ♪
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00:03:41,263 --> 00:03:43,305
- This place is a death trap.
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00:03:43,349 --> 00:03:46,433
If I can't help you,
you can't help yourself.
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00:03:46,518 --> 00:03:47,684
Rot has set in.
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00:03:47,770 --> 00:03:48,810
Smell it!
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00:03:48,896 --> 00:03:51,063
Shut it down.
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00:03:53,609 --> 00:03:57,444
I'm in yonkers, new york,
to visit el cantito,
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00:03:57,488 --> 00:03:59,780
A puerto rican restaurant
serving food based
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00:03:59,782 --> 00:04:01,031
On their family recipes.
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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.
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00:04:17,883 --> 00:04:19,091
Hello.
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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,
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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.
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00:04:33,482 --> 00:04:34,690
- It's all good.
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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.
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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?
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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.
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00:05:09,977 --> 00:05:12,811
"el cantito translates
to 'the small piece.'
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00:05:12,896 --> 00:05:15,188
"now through my cooking,
I strive to bring
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00:05:15,316 --> 00:05:16,815
"the authenticity
of puerto rico.
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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
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00:05:21,447 --> 00:05:24,156
"and leaves feeling fulfilled,
and most importantly,
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00:05:24,199 --> 00:05:28,535
Nostalgic, as they've just left
grandma's kitchen."
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00:05:28,579 --> 00:05:30,996
Multiple times I've been
to puerto rico,
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00:05:31,081 --> 00:05:32,914
And the island's just gorgeous.
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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,
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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.
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00:05:47,389 --> 00:05:51,266
It's dark.
It's gray, unfinished.
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00:05:51,310 --> 00:05:53,060
- Hello, I'm your server,
justin.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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00:06:34,353 --> 00:06:35,560
- Our dream was
to open up a restaurant...
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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.
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00:06:51,870 --> 00:06:53,537
She was an amazing cook.
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00:06:53,580 --> 00:06:55,914
So we put our heads together
and opened it.
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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]