Support ArtWalk and buy the cookbook that features recipes and photographs from Billy as well as some of West Hartford’s other restaurants.

Corn Risotto                   Billy Grant                     Apple Cobbler

Billy Grant is a bit leery of chefs who call themselves artists. “A lot of people abuse that,” says the chef and co-owner of West Hartford’s Restaurant Bricco and Grants. Far more important to him is the idea that food and culinary tradition are respected, that the very best ingredients are sought out and treated with what he calls “the techniques and timing” essential to bringing out their best.
“Being able to use the best ingredients simply and not complicating them
unnecessarily” are the keys to Grant’s extraordinary cooking and the success
of his two restaurants.

“You’re feeding people,” he says. “Whether you do that simply or in a
complicated way, those are all decisions you’re making. If you get the right
balance, then it’s an art . It’s not always about creating the next new
dish. It’s about finding the right balance and finding what you can offer at
a restaurant or what you can produce at home for your family.”

Grant’s risotto recipe is a culinary classic prepared to perfection. This
delicious version showcases wild mushrooms, but Grant encourages home cooks
to try seasonal variations. “Your risotto can be altered by changing the
flavor of broths, adding herbs and spices, or incorporating meat, shellfish,
or vegetables,” he says.

As always, start with the best ingredients and master the technique.
Simple is best for a reason.
Interviewed by Deb Hornblow

Book signing: Eat for Art: TD Banknorth branch ( September 20th )

Purchase an ArtWalk 5th Anniversary cookbook for $15 and have it signed by Billy Grant, Scott Miller of Max’s Oyster Bar and Michael Yarnot of the Corner Pug. Refreshments courtesy of Crown Market and Trader Joe’s.

TD Banknorth West Hartford Center branch
29 South Main Street. 11-1 p.m.