Episode 193: Eric Cook - A Chef in Search of "Modern Creole"

As a chef, Eric Cook is known for having lots of spice and flavor in his creations. The same can be said about his conversations. Cook – who owns Gris-Gris restaurant on Magazine Street in New Orleans’ Garden District, as well as restaurant Saint John located along the streetcar line on St. Charles Avenue near Lafayette Square – has had plenty in the oven lately. That includes relocating Saint John from its original French Quarter location and putting together a book, “Modern Creole: A Taste of New Orleans Culture and Cuisine.” In an information-rich podcast, Cook talks to Louisiana Life Executive Editor Errol Laborde, along with Producer Kelly Massicot, about the joys of fishing; the challenges of the restaurant business; the wonders of oysters; why pompano is so special; and how to make “red gravy.” As for his new book, he explains his interpretation of “Modern Creole.” We know this for sure: It will have a good mix of culture and cuisine.