Introduction to a New Culinary Partnership
Renowned chef Ronnie Killen is bolstering his restaurant group with the addition of culinary director Ryan Hildebrand, known for his fine dining expertise and Texas culinary traditions. This partnership aims to elevate Killen’s establishments, including Killen’s Barbecue in Pearland and Southern-inspired comfort food restaurant Killen’s, to new heights.
Background on Chef Ryan Hildebrand
Hildebrand is a familiar name in Houston’s dining scene, having founded Triniti, a fine dining restaurant that operated from 2012-17. He also created FM Kitchen, a comfort food restaurant, and has worked at esteemed establishments like Mark’s and Textile. Most recently, he owned Hildee’s in Wimberly, which closed in July. Hildebrand’s experience spans fine dining, comfort food, and Texas cuisine, making him an ideal fit for Killen’s group.
The Partnership’s Vision
Killen believes Hildebrand’s skills will complement his own, particularly at Killen’s, the chef’s restaurant near Washington Avenue. The restaurant is known for its fried chicken, chicken fried steak, and fried seafood, and Killen sees an opportunity to elevate these dishes and earn higher recognition. Hildebrand shares this vision, stating, "We’re both in a place where we can help each other out… He’s got a lot going on. I’m ready to come back to Houston."
Plans for the Future
Hildebrand will begin by focusing on Killen’s, where he plans to utilize Killen’s barbecue in innovative ways and adapt some of his previous dishes, such as a Texas redfish variation of miso cod. He also aims to reintroduce customer favorites like fried catfish. After establishing himself at Killen’s, Hildebrand will work with Killen at the group’s other restaurants, including the Pearland steakhouse, which Killen hopes to restore to its former glory as one of Houston’s best.
Benefits of the Partnership
For Hildebrand, this partnership offers a chance to focus on food, cooking, and mentoring, a welcome change from the challenges of operating a small-town restaurant. Killen, on the other hand, gains a skilled culinary director who can provide fresh insights and help elevate his establishments. As Hildebrand notes, "A year ago, two years ago, five years ago, maybe Ronnie wasn’t ready to do what he’s doing now… We both are now. It’s working out."
Conclusion
The partnership between Ronnie Killen and Ryan Hildebrand promises to bring exciting changes to Houston’s dining scene. With Hildebrand’s expertise and Killen’s vision, their collaboration is poised to elevate Killen’s restaurants to new heights, offering diners innovative, delicious, and authentic Texas cuisine. As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, this partnership is sure to make a lasting impact on the city’s food scene.
