Daily Inspiration: Meet James Leger

Today we’d like to introduce you to James Leger

Hi James , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The beginning of my culinary story started when I was 21 years old simply BBQing with friends. Began getting cookbooks to improve what I can do on the grill and from there I fell in love with cooking. I got my first job in a kitchen, started culinary school in Orange County and that’s when I wanted to be better with food, technique, to deal with the grind, to be a f*cken pro. I wanted to sweat. that’s when I decided to pack my bags and leave for New York City.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
nothing is smooth in a career world. Struggles will always be at your doorstep, you just got to know how to handle them with a calm approach. I have met amazing people on the way that have taken me under their wing and pushed me to become the chef I needed and wanted to be, and this has made my culinary world a great experience. I got laid off from my job after a year of moving to LA and needed to figure out a way to provide for my family. that’s when “The Baserri Experiment” supper club started.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My wife and I have started a supper club. The Baserri Experiment. We introduce a five coursed dinner inspired by Spain and the farmer’s market to friends and strangers. A big part is bringing people together through food and conversation, build community. while showcasing a menu that is curated through inspiration I see at the markets and reputable purveyors. Baserri has made me proud because it created a happiness I didn’t know existed and it makes me want more.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
When we first moved here from New York, Santa Monica didn’t seem like the right place for us, but the adjustment came quickly. We started camping which in LA you can do year around, we got the beach, and we started making friends in our community. wherever you live there will always be likes and dislikes, but I try to ignore the dislikes and focus on being happy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thebaserriexperiment.com
• Instagram: baserri_la