Hell’s Kitchen contestant taking over Albany restaurant Sunday

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) – Juneteenth events continue throughout the weekend and celebrate resiliency and culture. But there’s one that’s sharing culture through culinary arts, bringing a celebrity chef experience to downtown Albany.

The flavors of New Orleans coming to Ama Cocina, off of Sheridan Avenue, on Sunday. It’s a restaurant takeover by a contestant from season 22 of Hell's Kitchen.

“My name is Chef Jermaine Wright. I'm a private chef and culinary curator. Some of the things that really get me excited is to create memorable experiences for my clients and my guests,” said Wright, a private chef & culinary curator.

Ama Cocina will open its kitchen to Chef Wright, from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. on June 22, for fine dining served family-style.

“I’m super excited about my Break Bread NOLA Brunch. I think there’s so many things going on in the world right now and I think it’s time to get to the table and speak that universal language, which I like to say is food and really be able to break bread, and meet friends, both old and new, and just show that and share that love. It should really feel like an elevated Sunday dinner,” said Wright.

He’s from Queens, N.Y. but has lived in the capital region since 2008, when he attended UAlbany. He described his time on Hell's Kitchen. 

“It was a fantastic experience. It was one of the craziest boot camps I’ve ever been through in life. And it was a roller coaster ride but a great one and one that I think I’ve gathered and gained so much experience from and it’s something I’d do all over again,” said Wright.

He’s putting abstract twists on traditional classics – influenced by his family’s southern roots – showcasing resiliency and black culinary excellence.

“I always say that every time that I’m making anything, from gumbo to red beans and rice to crawfish etouffee, I feel like my ancestors are literally stirring those pots with me. So, to be able to bring community together, bring people to have a seat at the table and break bread, on Juneteenth weekend, I think it’s such a powerful experience and I'm hoping for every guest to feel that when they come,” said Wright.