The journey of Clair E. Shaw, owner of LKF LLC—a luxury service specializing in the creation and setup of world-class 5-star restaurants globally—is one rooted in humble beginnings, rich culture, and an unwavering passion for food, spices, and human connection.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa, Clair was shaped by a landscape where cultures collided and flavors thrived. Surrounded by the culinary traditions of a diverse community, Clair learned early on that food could do more than just nourish—it could unite. Clair’s mother, a beloved cook in their neighborhood, had an uncanny ability to mix local spices into soul-warming dishes. That kitchen became Clair’s classroom, where the storytelling power of spices first came alive.
Driven by a hunger for knowledge and cultural exploration, Clair pursued higher education at the University of Cape Town (UCT), enrolling in the Bachelor of Commerce in Food, Wine, and Restaurant Management program. The university’s focus on both the creative and business sides of food provided Clair with a foundation in restaurant operations, hospitality, and the subtle science of spices. It was during this time that Clair discovered a unique passion for spice purveying—sourcing and blending exotic ingredients from all corners of the globe.
In 2020, Clair launched LKF LLC, a luxury service focused on building unforgettable 5-star restaurant experiences around the world. Drawing from years of culinary education, global exposure, and operational excellence, Clair designed a business that delivers more than just great food—it curates entire experiences. LKF’s approach is holistic, incorporating everything from spice selection and staff training to interior architecture and ambiance design.
Spices remained at the heart of Clair’s philosophy. With global connections to expert purveyors from India, Morocco, Southeast Asia, and beyond, Clair ensured that each restaurant infused rare and exotic flavors into its menu. These blends didn’t just enhance food—they told stories of tradition, migration, and imagination.
Unlike traditional food consultants, LKF LLC offers full-spectrum restaurant setup services: working with chefs to perfect menu concepts, training staff for luxury-level service, and designing stunning interiors that elevate the entire dining experience. Each restaurant Clair touches becomes a sensory escape—where sight, smell, taste, and sound are all part of a carefully orchestrated journey.
From sleek rooftop venues in Miami to opulent fine-dining spaces in Dubai, Clair’s work speaks for itself. The brand’s global expansion reflects not only Clair’s ambition but also their core belief: that food is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect across cultures.
When not traveling for work, Clair enjoys peaceful moments by the beach. New cultures continue to inspire their creativity, and each journey adds another note to the symphony of experiences Clair brings to every client.
Today, LKF LLC is recognized as a leader in luxury restaurant development—an intersection of design, flavor, culture, and strategy. Clair’s legacy is more than a business; it's a movement. A commitment to crafting immersive, meaningful culinary experiences where the spice of life is more than metaphor—it’s a mission.
For Clair E. Shaw, success isn’t just measured in Michelin stars or bottom lines—it’s about connection, transformation, and honoring the power of food to bring us all a little closer.
