Meet the Chef
Food has always been my passion, and I’m eager to share it with you. – Chef Lester Esser
Born and raised near the multicultural neighborhood of Tampa’s Ybor City, Chef Lester Esser was immersed in the mix of Cuban, Italian, Southern and Spanish flavors that surrounded him from early childhood.
His family was passionate about fresh food – from the Gulf shrimp and oysters his uncle got from working on fishing boats to the fruits and vegetables from his family’s small farm to fresh eggs, dairy and meats that they raised.
He worked as a cook for several years, before following a career in media technology at Harvard’s School of Public Health. But he never stopped cooking. His slow-cooked barbeque, traditional Southern cuisine, home style comfort foods, holiday meals, gourmet picnics and many other foods are legendary among friends.
Chef Lester Esser also became enthusiastic about healthy eating while working in public health, and he has adapted many favorites for healthier menus, using produce from farmer’s markets and taking advantage of Boston’s incredible wealth of ethnic markets – including Latin, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, Italian and more.
Chef Lester Esser has returned to his passion, graduating from the Culinary Business Academy. Also a member of the United States Personal Chef Association.
I continue my education in food and nutrition. I read cookbooks like most people read novels. There is nothing that makes me happier than knowing I’ve prepared food that others have loved.
Photo by Beth Beighlie