Passionate people: Laurent Le Souquet

Like a whirlpool, you’re quickly drawn toward the fresh, odoriferous aroma that permeates the surrounding air.

Then you find him…Cooking Omelettes. Not just any Omelette. His are as organic as it gets.  

He is a proud Frenchman, committed and inspired by his passion.

Born and raised in Paris, Laurent Le Souquet trained and worked at several ‘Michelin stars’ and ‘relais et Châteaux’ hotels and restaurants in different regions of France before moving to Australia.

As Co-owner of the eponymous Café Europe, which was the restaurant of choice for six years in Brisbane in the 90’s (they won numerous awards and commendations) performing 250 covers every night with 150 seats after three months of opening.

I found Laurent one delightful sunny Sunday morning when I visited the Northey Street City Farm Organic Market. 

He was in his element over a sweltering grill, making his signature omelette for stall holders and customers. Many were there for his organic Pies, made the traditional French way and of course his Apple tarts. (pies)

Laurent is Executive Chef and Director of Organic Happy Kitchen, creating delicious organic food. He has found a niche with Australian staples, the humble pie and the sausage roll, infusing the French ‘savoir faire’ haut de gamme class that we all love.

What impressed me, is that he has collaborated with local cottage farms and producers, instilling a clear understanding of his organic philosophy.

Laurent’s respect for strict organic food preparation and principles, using fresh seasonal ingredients, is above reproach.

His commitment to engage with the local organic community to create delicious organic fare is staunch. To this end, Laurent does not penalise celiac with higher prices for gluten free, even though real GF is resource intensive.

Sunday mornings at the Northey Street City Farm Market will never be the same as I have found passion and flare with this Frenchman.

If you have not stopped by his simple but extremely functional stall, then you’re missing a real treat.

Over the past 20 years, Laurent Le Souquet has managed and developed this business. Now, it’s bearing fruit…or more to the point, delicious organic flare.

For me, it’s a highlight of my Sunday meanderings through this wonderful friendly market.

It’s where you’ll find this passionate Frenchman. Making omelettes the old-fashioned way.

Do stop by, and I urge you to grab a delicious omelette or one of his signature pies. There are a variety of fillings to satisfy every palate.

You will not be disappointed.

Organic Happy Kitchen can be found here.

What interesting people have you come across lately?  We would love to hear about them in the comments below.