Michael Lawrence

Private Chef | Kitchen Consultant | Culinary R&D Chef | Expert in High-Volume From-Scratch Kitchen Management

North York, Ontario, Canada

About

From Toronto to London: A Chef’s Journey to Mastering the Art of Food My culinary journey began in Toronto, where I was fortunate to work with the talented Chef Mark Thuet, who instilled in me a deep curiosity about food and its place in the world. At 19, driven by a desire to truly understand what food means to people, I made the bold decision to move to London, England—a city renowned for its rich culinary history and vibrant food culture. In London, I immersed myself in the world of professional kitchens and learned invaluable lessons that continue to shape my approach to cooking. I discovered the importance of sourcing quality ingredients, the patience required to perfect a dish, and the sheer dedication it takes to produce truly exceptional food. It was here that I embraced the philosophy that food is more than just sustenance—it’s the foundation of our lives, from early morning rituals to life’s biggest celebrations. If we’re going to do anything with food, we should do it right. Returning to Toronto, I brought with me the lessons and techniques from London’s dynamic culinary scene, blending them with my own creativity and passion for from-scratch cooking. Over the years, I’ve worked to craft a style that combines bold flavors, thoughtful presentation, and a commitment to bringing people together through food. For me, cooking is more than a skill; it’s a way to connect. Every dish tells a story, and every meal is an opportunity to create joy and lasting memories. Whether I’m leading a busy kitchen, designing innovative menus, or mentoring a team, my goal is always the same: to inspire connection and celebrate the power of food done right. Key Highlights: 20+ years of experience in high-volume kitchens, catering, and bespoke dining experiences. Expertise in from-scratch cooking, ingredient sourcing, and menu innovation. Passionate about leading teams, mentoring talent, and sharing the joy of great food. Let’s connect and share the passion for food that unites us all.

Experience

  • Bayshore Inn Resort & Spa (Seasonal · 2 yrs 4 mos)
    • Senior executive sues chef
      May 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 2 mos

    • Executive Sous Chef
      Mar 2024 - Oct 2024 · 8 mos

  • ProChef Mike (Self-employed · 11 yrs 4 mos)
    • Private Chef and Catering.
      Jan 2014 - Apr 2025 · 11 yrs 4 mos

    • Private Chef and Catering,
      Jan 2014 - Mar 2024 · 10 yrs 3 mos

  • Head Chef at Baxter Story
    Jan 2009 - Jan 2012 · 3 yrs 1 mo

     Created and prepared advanced dishes, maintaining high food quality standards.  Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to ensure a fully stocked kitchen.  Maintained well-organized mise en place to facilitate consistent work processes  Interacted with guests to gather feedback on food quality and service levels, striving for continuous improvement  Planned promotional menu additions based on seasonal pricing and product availability

  • Sous Chef at Milestones Grill + Bar
    Jan 2009 - Jan 2012 · 3 yrs 1 mo

     Acted as a head chef as needed to maintain service continuity and quality  Directed high-volume food preparation in a fast-paced environment, ensuring quality and efficiency  Trained kitchen staff to perform various tasks under pressure, fostering professional development  Collaborated with staff members to create meals for large banquets, meeting diverse culinary needs  Played a key role in kitchen equipment maintenance and repair to uphold operational standards

  • Head Chef - Tower of London, London, England UK at DIGBY TROUT RESTAURANTS LIMITED
    Jan 2006 - Jan 2009 · 3 yrs 1 mo

     Led high-volume food preparation and kitchen operations, ensuring quality and efficiency  Managed scheduling, inventory, and supply ordering to maintain optimal kitchen operations  Maintained high food quality standards by conducting regular inspections and checks  Mentored kitchen staff to excel in demanding roles, fostering professional growth and development