Chef Chat
Ralston Francis: Edgartown Diner
By Diane Alter
A native of Jamaica, Ralston Francis is co-owner and chef at the Americana-centric Edgartown Dinner. Ralston came to the Vineyard in 2012 and took over the Diner in 2016. This soft spoken kitchen wizard started his culinary schooling in Jamaica and finished at Southern New Hampshire University. He has worked in kitchens up and down the East Coast, yet it was love that bought and has kept Ralston to the Vineyard. He and his finance (Diner’s co-owner) Mavis Hutchinson, a delightfully delicious pair, are set to be married on September 30.
TW: When is your favorite time of year to cook?
Ralston: The summer, for sure. First, I like all the seasonal fish and produce that are available. Second, I like it when I am incredibly and crazy busy, and the summer is without question very crazy and very busy.
TW: What is the most understated cooking ingredient?
Ralston: Garlic. It smells great; it tastes great; and it is great for you. Garlic has a lot of medicinal and health benefits.
TW: Please tell me about your favorite kitchen tool.
Ralston: The knife— I love my kitchen knife.
TW: Is there one kitchen technique you especially like?
Ralston: Here at the diner I like to sauté. At home, I like to flambé. I like to see the flames.
TW: How would you describe your approach to cooking?
Ralston: I approach cooking with an open mind. I love to cook and let my imagination run wild. I like to be creative with methods, spices, flavors, and heat.
TW: What is the most important piece of kitchen wisdom you have ever received?
Ralston: Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.
TW: Who would be your dream dinner guest?
Ralston: Rhianna
TW: Where are you most often if you are not at the Diner cooking?
Ralston: I am at home, in the kitchen, baking. I make a great strawberry cake—a pound cake creation. It’s really good.
