About

Chef Lawrence Deneau’s culinary journey is driven by a genuine passion for sharing stories, memories, and experiences through the medium of food. With his remarkable talent, dedication, and commitment to culinary excellence, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring both colleagues and guests alike.

At a young age, Chef Lawrence discovered the joys of cooking while working alongside his grandmother in the kitchen. And although his initial foray into the hospitality industry was motivated by a desire to fund his travels, Chef Lawrence soon realized his passion for connecting with others by way of cooking. The direct and profound connection he could forge through food became his driving force, cementing his decision to become a chef.

Throughout his remarkable career, Chef Lawrence has had the privilege of training under esteemed mentors and embarking on adventures that have shaped his unique style. He has staged and traveled through gastronomic meccas such as Italy, New Orleans, and France, immersing himself in diverse culinary traditions. Along the way, he opened four successful restaurants of his own over the past seven years—including Halifax’s beloved Julep and Hermitage—a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and culinary expertise.

Chef Lawrence attributes his growth and success to the guidance and support of notable chefs and industry icons. From working with luminaries like Chefs Renée Lavallée, Martin Ruiz Salvador, Anthony Walsh, and Steven Kwon, he has amassed invaluable wisdom and refined his craft. He takes immense pride in not only building a strong Back of House team but also in mentoring a future generation of aspiring chefs.

Chef Lawrence seamlessly blends his classical training in French and Italian cuisine with a profound admiration for the flavors of southern American cuisine. Drawing parallels between comfort foods from around the world, he elevates and reimagines these dishes, showcasing his creativity and culinary prowess. At Drift, he infuses a sense of place and a deep passion for his home province of Nova Scotia. With a vision to position Drift as a culinary frontrunner in Canada, Chef Lawrence aims to uphold the traditions that have brought him this far while pushing new boundaries.

To stay inspired, Chef Lawrence is an avid reader, constantly devouring books and articles from around the world. This thirst for knowledge fuels his creativity and enables him to bring innovative ideas to his dishes, delighting diners with unique culinary experiences. Beyond the kitchen, Chef Lawrence seeks joy in the great outdoors. Whether he’s basking at the beach, exploring hiking trails, or immersing himself in nature, he finds balance and rejuvenation while enjoying all our region has to offer.