Meet Lendrek Washington | Private Chef

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lendrek Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lendrek, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Im from the Los Angeles area known as Leimert Park. Grew up as an only child with fond memories watching my parents exchange food recipes they found online while at work, random cook books or via The Food Network, coming home and cooking them for dinner. This type of cooking taught me not to be stagnant in the kitchen and continue to experiment with different food ideas; also taught me to keep pizza on speed dial incase what I cook didn’t turn out as good as expected. Taught me not to be afraid to fail…..

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I set myself apart from the competition because not only am I making my food look sexy but it also taste amazing. I’ve gotten to where I am business-wise with a lot of help from my family and friends and word of mouth at events that I’ve catered; hasn’t been the easiest task to grow the clientele but I know getting my product into people have for them to taste people will come back for more.

Since I’ve been on this journey I’ve noticed how easy it is to be forgotten. If I had to select one thing for the world to know about my brand is that I never take short cuts for my clients. Everything I provide to them is made from scratch. You can’t fake the taste of love I put in my food.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week long trip I would take people to places like Perch downtown Los Angeles. Has a vibe and is a rooftop. Would also take them to some local places that offer atmosphere and good food such as Post and Beam. Away from food would always send folks to The Santa Monica Pier.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Biggest credit goes to someone from my elementary school named Cydne Pollard; she has no idea that she actually jump started this journey I’ve been on as a private chef…..Worked in restaurants all the way through culinary school and after graduation until covid hit. After being laid off right as the world was reopening I had no idea what I was going to do next to ensure my daughter was cared for along with bills paid. Then one random day she messaged my on Facebook asking if I did private events because her and her husband wanted to celebrate something but yet didn’t feel comfortable going out. In the past I turned to down many of private catering out of fear and lack of self trust but with no options I told her yes and the project was born for me to bring the restaurant experience to the home for people.

Instagram: Chef_Lendrek

Facebook: Lendrek Washington