David Lee: questions and answers

Common questions about David Lee, the Sydney chef, hospitality consultant and small business commentator.

Who is David Lee?

David Lee is a Sydney-based hospitality consultant, chef and small business commentator. He has more than 40 years' experience as a professional chef, including in hatted Sydney restaurants, and founded Sydney Private Chef in 2011.

Is David Lee still an active chef?

Yes. David cooks for private clients, events and celebrations through Sydney Private Chef and Bowral Private Chef. Recent work includes a showroom dinner for Aston Martin in Sydney (April 2026), an event for Bridgestone at La Botanique (August 2025), a wedding at Ocean Farm, Gerringong (May 2025) and Sydney Private Chef's winter degustation menu (2025).

Which businesses does David Lee run?

David runs Sydney Private Chef, which he founded in 2011, and Bowral Private Chef in the Southern Highlands. Both provide private chefs for dinners, events and celebrations. He also works as a hospitality consultant and speaker, and writes and comments on small business.

Where does David Lee cook?

Across Sydney and the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, and further afield on request. Before founding Sydney Private Chef he also worked as a private chef in London, France, Italy and Asia.

Is this the David Lee who has been on TV talking about small business?

Yes. In October 2026 David spoke about the ATO's decision to stop accepting credit cards and the cost of running a small business on Sunrise, Sky News and ABC News, and News24 quoted him. His appearances are listed on the Media page of this site.

What does David Lee comment on?

Small business costs, the ATO and payment changes, wages and penalty rates, training chefs, and what it takes to run a hospitality business.

Is he the same person as other people named David Lee?

No. David Lee the Sydney chef is a different person from David Lee, the member for Hervey Bay in the Queensland Parliament; David Lee, the Toronto chef and restaurateur behind Planta; David Lee, the American former NBA basketball player; and David Lee Roth, the singer with Van Halen. He is not connected with other chefs, restaurants or businesses named David Lee in Australia or overseas.

What are David Lee's official accounts?

This website, www.davidleechef.com, and Sydney Private Chef at sydneyprivatechef.com.au. On social media he is @davidleechef on Instagram and Facebook, @Davidleechef on X, and David Lee on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/david-lee-14a16586).

How do I contact David Lee?

For media, speaking or consulting, email hello@davidleechef.com or use the Speaking, Consulting and Media pages. For private chef bookings, contact Sydney Private Chef at david@sydneyprivatechef.com.au.