Local Chef Bashir Chedrawee Reflects on Culinary Journey

Chedrawee discusses his mother's influence and the launch of his restaurant Lily P's

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:54pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph showing a chef's hands chopping herbs on a wooden cutting board, with soft pools of warm light and color evoking the comforting atmosphere of a home kitchen.The aromas and traditions of Bashir Chedrawee's childhood kitchen continue to inspire his culinary creations at Lily P's.Troy Today

Bashir Chedrawee, a prominent local chef, reflects on his culinary roots growing up in Troy, New York, and the impact his mother Simone's cooking had on his passion for food. He discusses the opening of his own restaurant, Lily P's, and how his family's traditions and values continue to shape his approach to the restaurant business.

Why it matters

Chedrawee's story highlights the importance of family, community, and tradition in the local food scene. His journey from his mother's kitchen to opening his own successful restaurant resonates with many in the region who value locally-sourced, homemade cuisine and the role it plays in shaping neighborhood identity.

The details

Chedrawee fondly remembers the aromas of his mother Simone's cooking, particularly the oven-roasted garlic and lemon flavors that would fill their Troy home. These early experiences in the kitchen inspired Chedrawee's love of food and led him to open his own restaurant, Lily P's, which features many of the same flavors and cooking techniques he grew up with.

  • Chedrawee grew up in Troy, New York.
  • Chedrawee recently opened his restaurant Lily P's.

The players

Bashir Chedrawee

A prominent local chef who owns the restaurant Lily P's.

Simone

Chedrawee's mother, whose home cooking inspired his culinary passion.

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What they’re saying

“The smells of my mother's cooking, especially that roasted garlic, are what really got me interested in food from a young age.”

— Bashir Chedrawee, Chef and Restaurant Owner

The takeaway

Chedrawee's journey from his family's kitchen to opening his own successful restaurant reflects the enduring power of tradition, community, and homemade cuisine in shaping the local food culture.