AP Photo/J. David Ake, Photographer

Chef Nina Compton is co-owner of Bywater American Bistro and Compère Lapin restaurants. The chef opened her Bywater restaurant on Mach 3. As Compton explains, “The whole premise to opening this restaurant was to have a neighborhood restaurant that people can just have good food, good cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.” The culinary skills Compton showcases at Compère Lapin have received national accolades. On May 7, she received the coveted James Beard Award, one of the highest culinary honors. The menu at Compère Lapin reflects the chef’s Caribbean heritage and her culinary experience with high-end French and Italian dishes. In this audio interview, Chef Compton explains what makes a dish special, and describes what makes people come back for more.

Listen to the podcast here.