Adirondack Cool Meets Hell’s Kitchen Heat: Inside Billy Trudsoe’s Kitchen

Dec 4

Our sizzling conversation with Chef Billy Trudsoe on the ADK Talks podcast.

Adirondack Chef and Hell’s Kitchen alum, Billy Trudsoe.

In this episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the Adirondack’s unique culinary culture with a sizzling conversation with Chef and Adirondack restaurateur Billy Trudsoe, proprietor of Lizzie Keays Kitchen and Cocktails in Warrensburgh and Basil & Wick's in North Creek.

We hear about Billy’s journey from a drive-in king to head chef at top restaurants in Lake George and Florida, which led him to the ultimate culinary competition, Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Kitchen.”

Billy shares his inspiring story of how his experiences culminated in establishing two of the southern Adirondack’s hottest restaurants.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

Chef Billy Trudsoe's scallops in the Adirondacks. — Billy’s amazing scallops with gnocchi.

A lifetime training from the ground up in Adirondack kitchens
The decision to reimagine long-time apres ski destination Basil & Wick’s near Gore Mountain
Resurrecting Lizzie Keays restaurant in a historic Adirondack landmark
Lessons learned from his time during season 21 of “Hell’s Kitchen” with globally acclaimed chef and rascal/genius Gordon Ramsay
The art and science of building, maintaining and growing two successful dining establishments simultaneously

Also mentioned in this podcast:

Listen now and subscribe to ADK Talks to never miss an opportunity to learn more from the people behind the best places to visit, stay, eat, shop and things to do in the Adirondacks.

Do you have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Please email us at info@adktaste.com.

More about the ADK Talks podcast.

Our podcast highlights the best of the Adirondacks, revealing hidden gems and sharing our curated recommendations for fantastic places to stay, eat, shop, and enjoy activities in the Adirondack Park.

Visit our ADK Talks podcast page to learn more and peruse previous episodes.

Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Warrensburgh and North Creek, NY.

ADKTaste Recommendations

ADK Talks Podcast Episode: Adirondack Architectural Heritage: Preserving Place

Step back in time—and into the future of preservation with Erin Tobin from Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH),

We Tried Glassblowing in the ADK and You Should, Too

Looking for a creative, hands‑on and downright fun experience in the Adirondacks? Visit Adirondack Glassblowing and Studio.

Top Events Happening in the Adirondacks This Weekend

Find the best events in the Adirondacks right now.

ADK Talks Podcast Episode: Science & Stewardship

What happens in the Adirondacks doesn’t always start in the Adirondacks—it can flow into our air, water, communities, and climate from coal-fired power plants far, far away from our lakes and forests.

Play Through: 10 Historic (and affordable) Golf Courses in the Adirondacks

The Adirondacks boast over 30 golf courses, each offering a unique combination of stunning scenery, history and value.

Adirondack Gems: Why USA TODAY Loves Our Lakes

USA Today’s 2025 “10Best Readers’ Choice Awards” named two Adirondack-area lakes among the top 10 vacation destinations in the US.

Big Views, Short Hike: Why Swede Mountain Packs a Punch

A fire tower, Adirondack history and epic views. Swede Mountain has them all.

Sailing Through Time: Lake George Waterfront Cruises

Lake George Waterfront Cruises provides an experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.

The Dog Cabin in Lake George Village

The Dog Cabin in Lake George Village has all the essential items for keeping your pup happy, healthy and well-heeled whether they’re on the road or at home.

Saddle Up in the Adirondacks: Ridin’ Hy Ranch Near Lake George Has It All—Year-Round

Experience horseback-ranch adventure year-round in the Adirondacks.

ADK Talks Podcast Episode: High Notes in the High Peaks

What happens when world-class opera collides with the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks? Find out in this episode of the ADK Talks podcast.

Beyond the Sea in Bolton Landing

Excellent seafood and steaks that will have you crooning like Bobby Darin: “Happy we’ll be beyond the sea….”

Garnet Hill Lodge: Adirondack Resort

Escape to this four-season resort to enjoy the many delights of the Adirondack Park.

Loons, Lakes & Lessons—A Conservation Conversation Returns

Love Loons? You’re Not Alone. ADK Talks podcast hosts the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation for an engaging conversation about loon behavior, habitat protection, and how to responsibly enjoy these iconic birds.

Discovering the Adirondack Tablescape: 2025 Farmers Markets in the Park

With over 65 farmers’ markets, the Adirondack Park is your place to savor locally grown produce and artisanally produced food products.

Breaking Trail: Women Who Shaped the Adirondacks

Learn about women’s history in the Adirondacks on the ADK Talks podcast.

Riding Among the Pines in the Adirondack Park

The Adirondacks are fast becoming a destination of choice for cyclists of all levels.

The Bullhouse Restaurant in Chestertown

Delightful Latin American influenced comfort food to satisfy many palates.

Unplugged and Lakeside: Bucolic Bliss at Morningside Camps

Lodged along the tranquil shores of Lake Minerva, escape to a timeless Adirondack retreat.

Brewing the Perfect Cup at 9 Mile Coffee Co. in Schroon Lake

9 Mile Coffee Co. brews excellent coffee and tea drinks and offers tempting baked goods, breakfast sandwiches and treats.

Discover the Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge

Scenic rewards, historic connection, and personal growth are some of the reasons to take on the challenge.

Love the Lake? Protect What Keeps It Pure

Lake George Land Conservancy’s campaign to protect the land that protects the lake.

Born of Forest and Fire: The Adirondack Park Turns 133

Happy Birthday, Adirondack Park!

Lake George Land Conservancy: Protecting the Land That Protects Lake George

If you’ve ever marveled at the clarity of Lake George and thought, “Wow, this place is magical,”—well, it's not magic. It's science, strategy, and a lot of passion.