Meet Justin Lawson | Private Chef

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

Hi Justin, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When working in restaurants or corporate institutions, balance is almost nonexistent. Working 6 days a week 12-15 hour days; any time you have free you simply do not have energy or desire to do anything. Currently working for myself I am able to create a healthier work-life balance because I create my own schedule. A healthy balance is definitely necessary and I’ve seen an increase in work progress when I have a healthy personal life. I enjoy my current balance most because I can take on a larger workload if I want, or take time away if needed.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have had my business open for 6 years, and the attention to detail and drive to create an everlasting experience for my clients separate me from other personal chefs. Getting to become a full-time personal chef took tons of learning within the restaurant space and corporate offices, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from great acclaimed Executive Chefs and business savvy General managers within the food and beverage space. Getting to this position was not easy, took time and patience, and understanding that I did not know everything. I had to wait until I was ready to fully depend on myself for my success and be able to hold myself accountable within the process of becoming a full-time entrepreneur. I failed several times before I was ready and when I ultimately became ready it was very apparent from my maturity and approach. I learned that failure is only a lesson and is not the end all be all if you believe in your skills and ability. I would like the world to know that I will leave my imprint on the culinary scene and I want everyone to be able to experience my creativity and high-end service.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in Houston, I truly enjoy the cultural and artistic value the city offers. On a long weekend, a few must-visits would be the Museum district of Houston, great art, and the great opportunity to eat at Le Jardenier within the Museum of Fine arts. A great start to the weekend and finish the night by going to the heights for a few drinks at places like Julep and Kenpai Club. To continue the weekend I truly love China town and going to the Asian markets to get fresh ingredients and experience some great high-quality sushi, can’t go wrong with good saki from MF Sushi. Depending on the time of the year but experiencing Houston sports or going to the local breweries like 8th wonder, Karbach, and Saint Arnolds.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout would go to my family. My mother for instilling me the confidence and necessary work ethic that powers my success today. My brothers for pushing me to be my best self and shaping my idea of fear and risk-taking when we were younger.

Website: www.thewinedownhtx.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thewinedownhtx