La Josie chef shares sizzling grilling tips for National Grilling Month

Tuesday, July 29, 2025
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago's own Chef José Luis "Pepe" Barajas brought the heat to ABC7 this morning with a flavorful take on carne asada for National Grilling Month. The owner of La Josie in the West Loop, Chef Pepe offered smart tips for home grillers, like his golden rule: don't over-handle the meat.

He also revealed a big update: he's opening a new restaurant in Pilsen this summer, returning to his roots in a more casual setting.

And the best drink pairing for what he grilled today? "Something agave-based, always."
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