Private chef and cookbook author David Lawrence knew early on that his enthusiasm for cooking and good food would become his career. He grew up in a house where the kitchen was always abuzz with activity and something great was always cooking. He began his culinary journey at the tender age of 8, with such genius dishes as scrambled eggs and Top Ramen, but soon moved on to much more sophisticated fare. Some of his fondest memories center around big meals with friends and family. He learned early the simple pleasures of setting out big platters of food, family-style with great bottles of wine and plenty of laughs. After assisting for years in his mother’s kitchen, a woman he describes as a Martha Stewart incarnate, minus the chic poncho and clunky ankle bracelet, he knew his mission was clear. He wanted to feed and entertain people. So, David introduced himself to Los Angeles and its cultural and culinary melting pot in early 1996.

David cut his teeth in several catering kitchens in what can only be described as a sink or swim environment. He catered private parties on the side and began building a clientele as he honed his skills. That eventually led to a job as a private chef in Beverly Hills.

It’s one thing for a chef to make cooking look like fun. David makes it look like play. As a guy with a tremendous passion for food his philosophy is simple, use the freshest ingredients and then let the natural flavors speak for themselves.

David’s hip new cookbook, Boy Eats World! A Private Chef Cooks Simple Gourmet, (Lake Isle Press) features over 150 recipes and is all about having fun in the kitchen. Cooking “newbies” will welcome Dave’s helpful hints and simple directions, while the more sophisticated will benefit from his years of high-end catering. David’s refreshing, often humorous style and easy to follow recipes will help even the most reluctant cook feel at home in the kitchen.

For more information, check out www.chefdavidlawrence.com

David lives in Los Angeles with his French bulldogs, Carly and Tucker.