Chef William Lara, Le Sud Mediterranean Kitchen; 2301 W. Roscoe St.; lesudchicago.com
William Lara became interested in the culinary world at a young age, drawing inspiration from his restaurateur mother and cooking with his siblings in their southern Mexico home.
Chicago provided many venues for Lara to hone his culinary skills including front of house and management skills as assistant general manager at Las Isla Marias, floor manager at Avenue Ale House in Oak Park and operations manager at Grange Hall Burger Bar. Back-of-house experience included line cook at Longman & Eagle, Dusek’s and The Promontory, eventually joining Randolph Tavern as chef de cuisine. He later became sous chef at Chicago Cut Steakhouse and most recently served as chef de cuisine at Amy Morton’s The Barn Steakhouse in Evanston.
As executive sous chef at Le Sud, Lara showcases fresh and flavorful Mediterranean fare, working with local farmers and sourcing seasonal ingredients.
Chef William Lara at Le Sud Mediterranean Kitchen.
Chef Lara shares one of his favorite holiday recipes:
“Roasted chicken holds a special place in my heart, not just as a dish, but as a symbol of togetherness and celebration. Growing up, roasted chicken was always the centerpiece of our family holiday meals.
“The smell of French herbs, butter, and slow-roasting chicken would fill the house, creating a warmth that brought everyone together. This dish has been passed down through generations, and each time I prepare it, I feel connected to my roots and family traditions.
“For me, roasting a chicken isn’t just about following a recipe — it’s about the care and attention given to the simple, yet rich ingredients. From seasoning the bird perfectly to ensuring the skin is crispy and the meat tender, it’s a reflection of love and patience. The addition of seasonal root vegetables reminds me of how we would gather fresh produce from the garden, making the meal feel even more personal.
“As a holiday tradition, this roasted chicken represents abundance and gratitude. It’s the dish that brings everyone to the table, where stories are shared, and laughter echoes. It’s comforting, familiar, and, for me, a reminder of the warmth of home and the joy of bringing people together. Serving it to others allows me to share a piece of my family’s tradition, making every holiday gathering a bit more meaningful.”