Chef “Pepe” Rodriguez began his culinary journey in Mexico, and though he’s now in Chicago, he is still bringing the flavors of South and Latin America to diners at Ronero in the West Loop {738 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.600.6105}. Chef Rodriguez’s refreshing take on classic Latin recipes, coupled with his broad knowledge of world cuisine, make him the perfect fit for a restaurant that highlights flavors from Colombia, Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. He’s taking his diners on a journey, and he’s taking us with him!
DiningOut: When did you first know you wanted to be a chef?
Rodriguez: I first left home at 18 years old to start a culinary hospitality trip. It was during this trip that I fell in love with the hospitality industry, and I wanted to be a chef ever since.
Who were some of your earliest culinary influences?
My grandmother, Chata, had a huge influence over my career, as well as my dad. He exposed me at an early age to have an open mind/palette to new flavors, textures, and cultures. Professionally, the best chef I ever worked for, Chef Michael Bloise. He was very strict and pushed all of his staff to be better every day, and I am extremely thankful for that.
What led you to Ronero?
I first met owner Nils Westlind a few years back when I was in town vacationing from Miami with my girlfriend, who was a Global Ambassador for a well-known rum brand. We connected with Nils, and we talked about his passion for rum as well as his upcoming project in the West Loop. I became a huge fan of his contagious enthusiasm and his up-beat Chicago lifestyle through social media. Two years later, I received THAT phone call and flew in from Miami with a one-way ticket to perform a tasting. The rest is history.
What do you want people to experience when they dine with you?
I would love for diners to feel at home. We, as Latin Americans, are very good at hosting—using the “mi casa es tu casa” kind of mentality. At Ronero, the cuisine, cocktails, aesthetics, and music are all meant to take you on a journey through Latin America. If you have never been, we hope that Ronero gives you a little insight to what it’s all about.
How is Ronero a journey through South America?
Ronero’s menu is designed to give guests a taste of various locations across the Caribbean, Central, and South America, highlighting many flavor profiles. From serving a traditional Brazilian Coconut Moqueca (tropical fish stew) to an Argentinian-inspired Carne Ronero, guests can expect to find influences from all across Latin America sprinkled throughout the menu. Furthermore, the space itself pulls inspiration from the Art Deco era mixed with rustic Colonial to emulate the perfect Latin-American backdrop.
How does your team work together to create this atmosphere?
I always push my cooks and encourage creativity within the kitchen: new ideas, a new special dish or twist. You need to keep your staff motivated and keep the good vibes rolling.
What are some of your favorite dishes right now?
The Coconut Moqueca is one of my favorites. The combination of flavors is incredible (coconut milk, chiles, herbs, and citrus). I love to cook fish because of its delicate nature, and I’m always looking for the best and freshest fish available through my purveyors. The Hemming Way Daiquiri signature Ronero cocktail is amazing! Very light and fresh, perfect to go along with the Coconut Moqueca.
Tell us about Esco Bar.
Esco Bar is a speakeasy-style bar that’s pays homage to Castillo San Felipe in Cartagena, Colombia, and truly celebrates Latin culture through music. From live performances to dance nights or awesome DJ sets, you can always count on Esco Bar to get the party started. Esco Bar is open Thursday and Friday from 9pm-2 am and Saturday from 9pm-3am. Dancing is always encouraged, and large format cart service cocktails are available upon requests, as well table reservations.
How do the two locations work together while still providing their own experiences?
The two locations work together in the sense that Ronero is meant to be the first stop of the night, where guests can enjoy a Latin-inspired dinner, but also get a sneak peak of the party happening upstairs. On weekends, Ronero plays Esco Bar’s music in the dining area, encouraging patrons to stay late and explore upstairs as an evening at Ronero never really ends right after dinner. So, going from food to music, the two locations embody Latin culture through two very different experiences.
How would you describe the Chicago food world?
Chicago has always been one of the coolest cities when it comes to food and the restaurant industry. Part of the culture that has been created is being open to new recipes and ideas. People are excited to try dishes from all over South America—to experience and go on a journey they have never been on before. Ronero has a lot to offer the Chicago food world in that it has traditional recipes Latin Americans can relate to and special twists and spins on recipes that make us unique and exciting.
What are the restaurant’s plans for the holidays?
As we move into fall and winter, we are very excited to introduce new food and cocktail menu items. We really push our private venue during this time as our unique space accommodates all kinds of holiday parties. We are also looking forward to our big New Year’s party. Last year’s was a huge success and this year will only be better! This is also my first fall in Chicago, so I’m excited about the weather and looking forward to all that Chicago has to offer during the holiday season!
Interview by Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post In the Kitchen with Jose “Pepe” Rodriguez at Ronero appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.