Alumni Story: A Recipe for Success

As a child, Harrison Liao (Concordia Class of ’12) found joy in cooking for his family and himself, always striving to create meals so enjoyable that no bite was left behind. That passion has taken him to Boston, where he serves as the co-founder and head chef of Flavor Boom!—a popular restaurant chain recognized by the Boston Globe as the “Best of the Best” for its exceptional culinary experiences at an accessible price.

Leaping into Culinary Arts

With a bachelor’s degree in playwriting and screenwriting and a master’s in journalism, Harrison made a bold transition to the culinary world, driven by his curiosity and desire to chart new territory.

His journey has been a dynamic exploration of passions: at 15, he began screenwriting; by 22, he was teaching snowboarding; at 25, he was writing as an NBA columnist; and by 27, he had launched his first food business. “I go for whatever I think I’d regret not doing,” Harrison explains.

What started as a single location in Watertown has grown to include spots in Jamaica Plain and Boston, offering comforting, home-style meals through a modern counter-service model. This innovative approach proved invaluable during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to thrive in the evolving dining landscape.

The Concordia Impact

Throughout his journey, Harrison’s identity as a storyteller has remained constant. Whether through film, writing, or now his culinary creations, Harrison has always found ways to connect with others by sharing meaningful narratives. As a chef, he brings this storytelling to life through his dishes, crafting a menu that honors his cultural heritage and captures the flavors of his travels—from the savory dishes of China and Singapore to the bold spices of Thailand and Morocco.

This passion for film and storytelling was nurtured during his high school years at Concordia and continues to be a fundamental part of his identity.

“My interest in film really went to the next level during high school. I still remember starting a film club with Mr. Bryan Munson (shout-out to Mr. Munson). We would host movie nights in the Concordia lounge area on bean bags and discuss motifs, themes, etc."

As a member of the Varsity Boys Basketball team, Harrison also learned valuable lessons in teamwork and perseverance. “Playing high school sports has really shaped my character,” he reflects. Just understanding the difference training, preparation, and mental strength can have on your work life has been pretty crucial for me.” 

When asked to describe himself in a few words, Harrison humbly chose, “pretty normal.” It’s this relatability that helps him connect with people through his food, proving that success doesn’t require extraordinary beginnings—just a willingness to embrace the journey and pursue your passions.

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