Demonstration by Café Adelaide’s Sous Chef

Last week we were treated to a demonstration by Orlando Harris, Sous Chef at Café Adelaide. Chef Orlando has worked in some of the top restaurants in New Orleans, including Delmonico, Bacco, and Commander’s Palace. In addition to demonstrating how to make White Chocolate Buttermilk Biscuit Bread Pudding, Chef Orlando spoke about his life journey, including how he overcame many of the same obstacles that our students face. Chef Orlando was joined by Ray Bruce, the Director of Human Resources for the Loews Hotel.

Chef Orlando told the students that he knows what it’s like to be in their shoes. He dropped out of high school and did not know what kind of future awaited him. He also struggled with addiction. He realized a natural skill with the culinary arts and started pursuing his interest in the field, first a basic certification course and then a degree from Delgado’s Culinary School. Chef Orlando completed his formal education with a degree from The International Culinary School from the Art Institute of Atlanta. Orlando did not have a high school degree, but he now had a college degree. Mr. Bruce said that you will not meet anyone more passionate about cooking than Orlando’s. Even with all of the success he has enjoyed, Orlando continues to spend many of his days off studying the field, and further expanding his knowledge of the culinary arts. He came to Café Reconcile on his day off because he understands the importance of the choice Reconcile’s students are making to improve their lives.

Chef Orlando showed our students his White Chocolate Buttermilk Biscuit Bread Pudding, which is topped with a root beer sauce. It was an interesting experience for the students because it showed them that heating root beer with corn syrup changes the flavors and adds complexity to the dish. Chef Orlando also showed the students how to finely chiffonade mint to add to the presentation of the dish. The students raved about the taste of the dish and expressed that they wanted to experiment with foods and drinks that they didn’t think you could cook with.

Thank you, Chef Orlando and Mr. Bruce, for sharing your experience and your passion with our students. Your story inspired us, showing us how with hard work and determination lead to success.