Jaime Rodriguez takes stock of the last few years and changes his life. For the young chef who revolutionized Colombian gastronomy, it's time for a break: more travel, contentment, and awareness.
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Thirty-five years, 16 of which were spent in the kitchen and five alongside longtime partner Sebastián Pinzòn; now, however, it´s time for new adventures for Jaime Rodriguez, who has been left to helm Celele restaurant (founded with Pinzon in 2017, along with Proyecto Caribe in Cartagena de Indias, a research initiative that has led to the classification of more than three hundred Caribbean ingredients). "I was in the kitchen, doing creative development and research on product use," he says.
"Sebastián, conversely, fed the network of relationships with small producers. Not much has changed in this sense because I am still at the forefront of creative work and menu design. In addition, I am working to strengthen the kitchen and dining team and improve the environment at Celele," says the chef. He plans to travel more to introduce the world to the Caribbean cuisine he has always offered and promoted in his restaurant. The reason? "For many years, I was completely immersed in the restaurant. I was on my feet from noon to midnight every day.”
"I have dedicated myself to training my employees by creating a company culture and treating them well; therefore, I believe that if the opportunity to travel arises, it is worth taking advantage of it. The trips that we chefs occasionally take positively impact the team; they also allow us to see what is happening in other countries. It's great to sit in restaurants of the caliber of Boragó, Central, Noma, or so many others I've been to recently, places that inspire me and help me evolve. I'm calm, more serene, I'm cooking happily, and I'm able to convey that to my team," he confides.
Over the years, Rodriguez has managed to create a united and cohesive brigade, so even in his absence, the team ensures the same standards of cooking and service. "I have never felt so strong, focused and creative. And it's a feeling that comes not from seeing myself surrounded by recognition and visibility but from being able to take breaks. You have to find the right balance."
Source: 7canibales.com
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Photo: Credit Celele
