With vibrant cities like Vancouver, Toronto and Halifax, it’s no surprise that Canada can claim some serious food talent. And with the increasing popularity of cooking shows and TV competitions, Canadian chefs are finding themselves with more outlets to share their culinary skills. If you’re looking for an exceptional meal, head to one of these hot spots, headed by some of Canada’s best chefs.
Vikram Vij
For a taste of authentic Indian cuisine, try to get a table at one of Vikram Vij’s restaurants in Vancouver. In 1994 Vikram opened his first fine-dining restaurant – aptly named Vij’s – which received high praise from foodies across North America. Ten years later he opened a second, more casual eatery called Rangoli.
Where to get the experience: Vij’s (Vancouver, BC) and Rangoli (Vancouver, BC).
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Mark McEwan
Toronto chef Mark McEwan has left his mark all across the city. With four restaurants and as the head judge on Top Chef Canada, he has made himself a household name.
Where to get the experience: ONE Restaurant (Toronto, ON), North 44 (Toronto, ON), Fabbrica (Toronto, ON) and Bymark (Toronto, ON).
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Lynn Crawford
With experience as the executive chef at the Four Seasons in Toronto and New York and her own show (Pitchin’ In) on Food Network Canada, Lynn Crawford has made a name for herself as one of Canada’s leading female chefs.
Where to get the experience: Ruby Watcho (Toronto, ON) and Ruby Eats (Toronto, ON).
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Chuck Hughes
French-Canadian Chuck Hughes is making headlines in Quebec and is the youngest Canadian chef to win Iron Chef America. Fans can find him at two Quebec restaurants and on Food Network Canada with his show Chuck’s Day Off.
Where to get the experience: Garde Manger (Old Montreal, QC) and Le Bremner (Old Montreal, QC).
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James Walt
Known for his use of local ingredients, James Walt has made an impact on the West Coast. In 2000 he opened Vancouver’s definitive seafood destination, Blue Water Café, before heading north to work as executive chef at Whistler’s Araxi. In 2009 Gordon Ramsay filmed the sixth season of Hell’s Kitchen in Whistler, with the winner receiving a place in Walt’s kitchen.
Where to get the experience: Araxi (Whistler, BC) and Blue Water Café (Vancouver, BC).
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Craig Flinn
Craig Flinn began his culinary career as an apprentice to celeb chef Michael Smith at The Inn at Bay Fortune in P.E.I. In 2001 Craig opened his own restaurant in Halifax which focuses on seasonal and local ingredients.
Where to get the experience: Chives (Halifax, NS).
