FLM: How did coming from a large family influence the way you approached cooking?
DL: My family was my first audience. No different from everyday consumers, I had to consider dietary restrictions and preferences. I always strived for perfection because I needed them to believe in me. Their beliefs in my ability to be a Chef was encouraging. Through family I was influenced to always use food to bring people together.
FLM: As a black, LBGTQ woman and chef, describe what it means to represent those communities and experience the success you’ve had.
DL: To be representing the LGBTQ community is important to me. I've experienced some hardships in life because I was "different". I like to be an example of what it looks like to grow up feeling like an outcast, and despite it believing in yourself and being determined enough will break barriers. When I step outside of myself and think about how courageous I have been as a young, black, lesbian chef it makes me proud of myself.
FLM: How has your wife and mentors helped you to maintain balance and focus as
you become more high
profile and in demand?
DL: I appreciate my wife more than anyone because she holds the restaurant down while I travel. Balancing the day to day of restaurant operations and being in demand would be a complete challenge without her. My mentor James Gray and our marketing team Gaz do their jobs extremely well. We work as a team and all concentrate on what we're great at.