We were lucky to catch up with Laurent Quenioux recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Laurent , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
Growing up in a dysfunctional family, I learned to navigate life independently from a young age. I began working at 15 and have dedicated 40 years to the demanding culinary industry, building a career defined by perseverance and passion. I’ve faced life with minimal support or guidance, yet I’ve achieved numerous successes along the way. While I’ve encountered setbacks, I’ve always embraced challenges, pivoted when necessary, and bounced back stronger, demonstrating unwavering resilience and adaptability throughout my journey.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Currently, I oversee the culinary program at The Wolves in Downtown LA while continuing to lead LQ Foodings, Los Angeles’ longest-running pop-up underground dining club since 2013. After closing my award-winning restaurant, Bistro LQ—recognized for numerous industry accomplishments and nearly earning a Michelin star before the guide’s arrival in LA—I’ve maintained a strong presence in the culinary scene. I still deliver weekly homemade meals across LA County, Orange County, and Riverside County, and I continue to host pop-up dining events in Corona and Downtown LA. For updates or to join us, feel free to email LQ@bistrolq.com.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I firmly believe that resilience is the most important key to success—it has been the driving force in my own journey. Self-guidance through hard work and a relentless commitment to continuous learning have been my foundation. Surrounding yourself with young, goal-oriented individuals brings fresh perspectives and energy, keeping your vision dynamic and forward-thinking. Equally important is the willingness to take risks; it’s in those uncertain moments where true growth happens. Empowering yourself to embrace both success and failure as valuable lessons builds the inner strength needed to navigate life’s challenges. With this mindset, even the toughest obstacles become surmountable, paving the way for a balanced, fulfilling, and peaceful life.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
My greatest challenge today lies in embracing the realities of aging—both physically and mentally—in a profession often associated with youth and constant reinvention. As I navigate this stage of my career, I’m determined to resist becoming invisible, staying true to my identity as a genuine chef who continues to make a meaningful impact.
Having spent decades as a precursor of high-end California cuisine, I take immense pride in the legacy I’ve built. I’ve had the privilege of paving the way for countless fishmongers, ranchers, farmers, young chefs, restaurant designers, and innovators. Whether through teaching, mentoring, or developing new techniques, my focus has always been on elevating the culinary landscape and inspiring the next generation.
While facing the natural challenges of aging, I approach each day with joy and candidness. I view this stage as an opportunity to celebrate my contributions, build on them, and ensure the continuity of my career. By remaining passionate and open to growth, I aim to prove that experience and wisdom are invaluable assets in an ever-evolving industry
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bistrolq.com
- Instagram: lqfoodings
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009682184027
- Linkedin: chef laurent quenioux
- Twitter: we are on thread and bluesky
- Youtube: bistrolq
Image Credits
n/a
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