Chris Lucas: How to Back Yourself, Handle Criticism & Build Something That Lasts

What does it take to build some of Australia’s most iconic restaurants, and what happens when you risk your reputation to speak out against the government?

In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with renowned restaurateur Chris Lucas, the man behind some of Melbourne’s most iconic restaurants including Chin Chin, Society, Grill Americano, Maison Bâtard and Yakimono, for a candid conversation about success, resilience, leadership, family and the future of Melbourne.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Chris publicly took on Daniel Andrews during Melbourne’s lockdowns, and whether he has any regrets

• What he believes really happened to Melbourne during COVID and the lasting damage he still sees today

• Why losing his father suddenly at 15 changed the trajectory of his life

• The mindset that helped him build a hospitality empire employing thousands of people

• Why he believes every problem has a solution, even when you can’t immediately see it

• How Chris deals with criticism, controversy and people who don’t agree with him

• Why, despite everything Melbourne has been through, he continues to invest millions in the city

• The surprisingly simple way he defines success, happiness and the legacy he wants to leave behind

This is a fascinating and at times provocative conversation with one of the biggest personalities in Australian hospitality, about speaking your mind, backing yourself and building something that lasts.