Lawrence "LT" Smith
“Lawrence Smith, affectionately known as “L.T.” on the culinary circuit, is the dynamic force behind Chilte embodying the spirit of innovation and resilience. His journey from the highenergy NFL gridiron to the bustling kitchens of Phoenix is a testament to his unwavering dedication and creative flair. Once a promising football player with the Indianapolis Colts, Smith’s athletic career was cut short by injuries. This abrupt turn of events led him to rediscover and channel his passion into cooking—a decision that made him a standout in Phoenix’s vibrant food scene as he transforms the culinary landscape.
Chilte, the brainchild of Smith and his partner Aseret Arroyo, started as a humble pop-up at local farmers markets and bars during the pandemic. Fueled by grit and a relentless pursuit of excellence, they transitioned from a 10×10 tent to a celebrated brick-and-mortar establishment inside the Egyptian Motor Hotel on Historic Grand Avenue. Chilte quickly gained national attention, earning accolades from Bon Appétit and Esquire, both of which hailed it as one of the best new restaurants in 2023.
Smith’s style is an audacious blend of traditional Mexican flavors, contemporary innovation, and experimental riffs. His philosophy, encapsulated in the phrase “Me Vale,” speaks to his commitment to unapologetic authenticity. At Chilte, every dish tells a story, weaving together rich cultural threads of his past, present, and future. He paid his culinary dues by training under renowned chefs like Beau MacMillan at Elements, Alex Stratta at Match, and Rene Andrade. Yet, Smith’s creations are distinctly his own, often incorporating unconventional ingredients like chapulines, chicatanas and huitlacoche with a cross common cultural thread and a pinch of innovation; it’s a testament to his daring creativity.
In 2024, Smith’s boundary-pushing culinary vision caught the eye of Taco Bell, leading to his selection for their inaugural TBX program. This collaboration sees him remixing the iconic Crunchwrap Supreme, a project that allowed Smith to blend his love for street food with the playful, nostalgic elements of Taco Bell. It was an opportunity to showcase his innovative spirit on a national stage.
Smith’s culinary journey is deeply personal. Growing up, food was an integral part of his family’s cultural fabric. These early experiences instilled in him a profound respect for ingredients and the stories they tell. This respect is evident in Chilte’s ever-evolving menu, which features dishes like birria tacos with squid ink tortillas to chorizo Bolognese on pineapple pappardelle. His inventive use of local ingredients and commitment to quality reflect his deep connection to his roots and his community.
On the rare occasion when he’s not in the kitchen disrputing the culinary industry, Smith can be found traveling, at the gym, or kicking back with his family. He enjoys a diverse mix of music, from the beats of Bad Bunny to the soulful tunes of Anderson .Paak, which often provides the soundtrack to his daily happenings.
LT’s journey from NFL hopeful to culinary badass is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and creativity. His work is more than just cooking; it’s about creating and mentoring a community, lead by a narrative that celebrates vibrant, multifaceted cultures that surround him.
