Chris McLaurin, a Chapel Hill High School alumnus and chef with 15 years of experience, is launching a café and bakery called Lutra in Durham, North Carolina. Having hosted pop-up events since January of last year, McLaurin aims to open his establishment by mid-2025. The 2004 Chapel Hill High School graduate is baking up something truly special, promising a warm and welcoming atmosphere alongside sweet treats.
Culinary Journey
McLaurin’s path to the culinary world began later in life. While he worked various service jobs during high school, his passion for baking emerged only after earning his bachelor’s degree in Washington, D.C. In 2010, he enrolled in culinary school, marking the start of his professional journey. By 2013, McLaurin had returned to North Carolina to begin building his career in earnest.
“I’ve been cooking and working ever since,” he said. “It’s been a fun ride!”
Reflecting on his time at Chapel Hill High, McLaurin recalls the friendships and experiences that shaped his life. “I had a good group of friends, and I was lucky to have some incredible teachers,” he shared.
One standout teacher for McLaurin was Evon Barnes, his AP English instructor, who now teaches at East Chapel Hill High School. “She was really supportive, even though I wasn’t thinking about restaurants back then,” he said.
While McLaurin didn’t envision a culinary career during high school, he credits Chapel Hill High School with instilling values like hard work and community—principles that continue to inspire his success.
From LaPlace to Lutra
Before launching Lutra, McLauirn honed his skills as a line cook at LaPlace, a Cajun-style restaurant in Hillsborough.
“It was great,” McLaurin said of his time there. “Hillsborough is a small, close-knit community, and I really appreciated how supportive everyone was. It reminded me of Chapel Hill in a lot of ways.”
His work at LaPlace helped him build relationships and refine his craft. Soon, he began hosting pop-up events under the name Lutra, showcasing his baked goods and quickly gaining a loyal following for his delicious creations.
Sweet Buns and Sweet Memories
Lutra’s standout offering is McLaurin’s sweet buns, which have become a customer favorite. Inspired by childhood memories of Saturday mornings with his family, the buns are a nostalgic treat for McLaurin’s clientele.
“We used to have Pillsbury orange buns, but I’ve made them my own,” McLaurin explained. His version features a delicate cinnamon swirl and a bright orange glaze made from fresh juice.
“It’s all about creating food that feels comforting,” he added. “I want people to have a connection to what they’re eating.”
The Future of Lutra
Currently, McLaurin continues to host pop-up events while preparing for Lutra’s permanent location. Working with a real estate agent, he plans to establish the bakery and café near downtown Durham, with a target opening date of mid-2025.
“Eventually, I want Lutra to become a place where people can come together,” McLaurin said. “I want it to be a community space where people feel welcome and comfortable. That’s the dream.”
As he gears up for Lutra’s grand opening, McLaurin’s enthusiasm and dedication shine through. From baking his first sweet buns to envisioning a space that fosters community, his journey is one of perseverance, creativity, and passion.
“I want Lutra to be a place that makes people feel good, whether they’re grabbing a quick tea or sitting down for a leisurely afternoon,” he said.
Leadership Roots
McLaurin’s leadership skills were cultivated during his time at Chapel Hill High School, where he was involved in student government. He fondly remembers organizing events like Fall Fest and working on school projects.
“I loved being involved and contributing to the school community,” McLaurin said.
These experiences helped McLaurin develop a sense of collaboration that continues to drive his work today. From his Chapel Hill roots to his burgeoning bakery in Durham, McLaurin’s journey is just beginning.
