“Mr. Dave” started working in the Lupine Lane Kitchen with Mr. Carl in June 2021. He brought with him more than 30 years of culinary experience, as well as a love of food and making people happy.

David was born in San Diego and moved with his family to East Texas when he was a child. His father was a traveling musician, so  Dave had a great deal of exposure to the musical world and festivals. Even at a young age, he quickly developed a love of the culture of music, events, people and food. In turn, working in restaurants and preparing food at large events was a logical first step into a career as a young adult.

David came to Austin in 2005 and attended the Texas Culinary Academy, graduating in 2007. After receiving his degree, he began cooking in the large kitchens at the University of Texas, preparing food for students and professors.

He further honed his culinary skills as a deli cook with HEB and then as a traveling chef. As a traveling chef, Dave had the exciting privilege of cooking at large events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival, the PGA Tour, the Bonnaroo Music Festival and the Houston Rodeo.

Dave then settled back into Austin and took a culinary position at Facebook, cooking for 500 people each day.

Dave brings his knowledge and experience in cooking to the Lupine Lane Kitchen, as he and Mr. Carl prepare snacks and lunches each day for the children and staff at school. Dave enjoys preparing foods that are familiar to children, as well as new and interesting foods which introduce new flavors and expand young palates and minds. He takes a real interest in how each child enjoys the various foods. He strives to learn and grow as he prepares food and sees how the children experience his creations. Mr. Dave finds cooking for the youngest people in our world offers a fresh and new perspective on eating and food, and he enjoys each day!