A graduate of the New England Culinary Institute, she has over 15 years of restaurant experience including an internship at the renowned Boca Raton Country Club and Resort in Florida; and the only female chef at the illustrious Picasso’s restaurant in Las Vegas' Bellagio Resort. Additionally, she spent 6 years as chef-owner of her own restaurants: Chef’s Place in New Brunswick (2008 - 2011), a modern American restaurant; and a Portuguese-driven concept: Cafe Cafe in Newark (2011 - 2014). In 2014, as she and her husband were starting a family, she closed Cafe Cafe but due to her former restaurant clientele’s continued request for her to cater their events, she then started a catering business.

Chef Covas Catering channels Lauren’s passion for both creating unforgettable culinary experiences and fostering memorable moments with loved ones. Lauren has become the go-to chef in her community for those who want to impress their guests while still enjoying precious time with family and friends.

In 2016, Lauren made her national TV debut on Food Network’s Chopped cooking competition, which she won. She then appeared on Food Network’s Supermarket Steakout in 2019 and also earned the championship. Her television experience led to her becoming a popular social media personality, where she is known for her entertaining character, culinary creativity, and time-saving, accessible recipes for the home cook that inspire them to bring the family back to the dinner table.

As a first-generation American raised in a traditional Portuguese family, she emphasizes family time and togetherness in her cooking and considers her cooking style to be anchored to heritage, simplicity, and connection. Her goal is to share recipes and tips that help families set the table beautifully, enjoy delicious meals, and create cherished memories together.

Lauren’s first cookbook is being published by Page Street Publishing in May 2025. It is a collection of her family recipes, some reimagined in her own way, alongside family culinary stories.