The hot seat

Photo: Ben Reed

Ingredient Definitely the swine. I can’t think of anything that doesn’t taste good with bacon. One of our best dishes is the pork belly with housemade kimchi.

Kitchen gadget Vegetable juicer. It is a great way to get the flavor of fruits, vegetables and herbs for sauces without all the fiber.

Restaurant Although it isn’t local, I think everyone should try the pork-belly steamed buns from Momofuko Noodle Bar (171 First Ave, NYC, 212-777-7773).

Inspiration This may sound cheesy but I would say my kitchen at home. At the restaurant, I spend most of my time making food that other people enjoy. In my own kitchen I get to choose both the food and the company that I enjoy.

Music to cook to Any Bob Dylan. Highway 61 Revisited specifically.

4539 N Lincoln Ave between Sunnyside and Wilson Aves (773-942-7585).