Tidings Maverick Chefs On The Move
Oh those dynamic Maverick Chefs…
Let it never be said that the chefs who are featured every October in Tidings’ Maverick Chefs issue are content to rest on their laurels. The chefs we choose to interview are individuals who explode boundaries. They consistently seek out new ways of expressing their craft while still paying homage to traditional techniques and flavours.
Alida Solomon, who appeared in Maverick Chefs ’08, has gone on to win the coveted Leccio d’Oro 2009 award. Given out by the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino, it’s a huge accomplishment for a female chef from Toronto. Robert Clark, also appearing in Maverick Chefs ’08, takes every opportunity to share his passion for environmental stewardship and culinary expertise with the community-at-large. In an effort to help Food Banks Canada raise funds for its Thanksgiving drive this year, Clark participated in Canon Canada’s Other Side of the Lens program. Its theme was “Food for Thought” and focused on the importance of feeding all people healthful and sustainable food.
Maverick Chefs ’09 is barely off the presses and already a couple of this year’s chefs are on the move.
As I write this, Jeff Kreklau and Ray Bear have left their homes (Suede Lounge and Bear Restaurant, respectively) and are pursuing opportunities that will see them practice their art in other parts of the country and perhaps the world. If there’s anything a Maverick Chef loves, it’s the chance to build on what he or she knows by visiting different locales and tasting, learning and cooking a wide variety of cuisines.