Inside the Kitchen with Gilbert M. Alaquinez Jr.
Gilbert M. Alaquinez Jr.
Executive Chef, 42
Cuisine you're known for:
Southern American cuisine
What is your top tip for healthy eating?
Eat moderate portions—reduce, don’t eliminate foods.
Simple suggestion for cooking healthier at home:
Eliminate all processed foods; choose whole foods and don’t be afraid of fruits and vegetables.
What item on your menu do you most recommend to those looking for something healthy?
It’s our new Sesame Crusted Yellowfin Tuna Salad with Baby Kale Arugula Mix, Broccoli Slaw, Chili Roasted Edamame tossed in a Candied Garlic Vinaigrette (480 calories).
The food trend you're both loving right now?
Local. I think it’s an awesome trend; hopefully it becomes the norm from now on. It makes the chef use what’s in season and make for very creative dishes.
Superfoods — what are your favorites and how do you use them?
Kale, arugula, avocado and quinoa—we incorporate these into our salads at the restaurant.
Ingredient you can’t live without and why?
Salt! It makes everything taste better.
Deli containers. Most versatile—in my mind you can use them for storage, drinking cups, bowls, etc. You can use the lids to cut grape tomatoes in half.
Common misconception people have about eating healthy?
Darker breads are not always better for you. Healthy food doesn’t taste bad.
Outside of the kitchen, what is your fitness routine of choice?
Cycling. It’s one of the best feelings in the world; it's fun, low impact and burns a lot of calories.
| Favorite meal of the day | Breakfast |
| Coffee or tea | Coffee |
| Favorite vegetable | Brussels sprouts |
| Secret recipe | Sour cream in mashed potatoes instead of heavy cream |
| Go-to meal when you're short on time | Roasted Chicken with Cauliflower Puree and Kale Arugula Salad |
| Celebrity chef | Daniel Humm |
| Guilty-pleasure food | Cheeseburger |
In the Pantry
How do you feel these trendy culinary ingredients—love it or leave it, Chef?
Sriracha: Love it
Kale: Love it
Chia: Leave it
Quinoa/similar grains: Love it
Matcha: Leave it
Fancy salt: Love it
Bone broth: Love it
Coconut sugar: Love it
Cold-pressed juice: Leave it