WILLY GARCIA
Willy Garcia was born in Venezuela and migrated to Miami in his late teens. At the time, Willy began his career working in restaurants to pay for his schooling and he fell in love with the restaurant industry. In 2014 he opened his first bar/restaurant in Miami. Willy has had the fortunate experience of growing up around intercontinental flavors.
William Gracia
In 2019, Helltown Kitchen in Provincetown was created as a welcoming place for friends, family, and guests from around the world, where simplicity would meet sophistication, and individuals with a zest for life would come together. For Willy Garcia, it is not only about the food, but the whole experience, where food, ambiance, and music come together.
Helltown Kitchen’s community spirit comes through thanks to the friendship, collaboration, and dedication of Willy Garcia, Laurance Defreitas, Todd Tedesco, and a diverse staff of friendly and welcoming individuals. In 2023, he along with Todd Tedesco and Alejandro Alvarez opened his third venture, Terraza, a small rooftop restaurant and bar that quickly became a Provincetown favorite.
Please tell us about Helltown Kitchen.
Helltown kitchen is refreshingly approachable yet upscale, offering our guest a hidden gem where they can sit back, relax, and enjoy simple, consistently delicious dishes with flavors from around the world.
Who are some of your culinary role models?
My mother, of course. I was always amazed at how quickly she was able to prepare delicious dishes in just 20 min. I am also a huge fan of Alain Ducasse.
What is your motto or philosophy when it comes to food?
Food should never be boring or flavorless. Be adventurous with it, don’t be afraid of adding or mixing things, but always make sure you try it first before you serve it.
What is one of your proudest signature creations in the kitchen?
Being from Venezuela I grew up eating Asado Negro, which is one of the most traditional dishes in the country. It is an eye round roast, slow cooked in a slightly sweet and super flavorful dark sauce served with rice or mashed potatoes and sweet plantains. Up until a few years ago I was convinced my mom made the best Asado Negro I have ever had, but that all changed through the pandemic when I had the time to actually see if I could top her recipe, and I did! Now I am just hoping she doesn’t read this!
Which person would you most love to see come in and enjoy your food?
Easy…the Obamas.
What are some of your favorite local food or beverage products that visitors should bring back home with them?
Definitely visit the Truro Vineyards and get some of their wines. Also, stop by Relish in Ptown–they have the best cupcakes
What are some of the other local restaurants you recommend visitors experience when they come to Provincetown?
This is a difficult question to answer as there are so many options to choose from. For a picture perfect summer day nothing is better than happy hour at the Red Inn. We also love Liz’s Cafe and Chach Restaurant for breakfast. And, if I do say so myself, Terraza has good food and the best drinks in town in a beautiful setting.
Why is Provincetown such a great destination for LGBTQ+ culinary folks?
Provincetown is a magical place, you can be whoever you want to be and nobody will judge you. There is a sense of community among us residents and I believe the people who come to visit can feel it. Ptown is fun, vibrant, and down to earth…you can come here to party, relax, shop, and eat amazing food.
