Our Chefs for this Season

Juan Salinas

of Christine Cushing Live

Learning the secrets of authentic Mexican cooking in his mother's kitchen blossomed into a lifelong passion for Chef Juan Salinas. Surrounded by an abundance of natural ingredients, Juan honed his culinary skills in Mexico and abroad with some of the world's best chefs. Today, he is one of Canada's leading ambassadors of Latino cuisine. Juan is the Executive Sous-Chef on The Food Network's Christine Cushing Live, runs an exclusive catering company DeJuan, and instills a love of cooking as an instructor of innovative Mexican and international cuisine.

Bouchra Sidali

Moroccan cuisine is well known for its variety and authentic, complex flavours. Bringing this seductive cuisine to our kitchen is Bouchra Sidali. Bouchra learned all about her native cooking from her mother, a Cordon Bleu chef and TV personality. Upon arriving in Toronto, she and husband Abell realized their dream of opening an authentic Moroccan restaurant. Cooking from scratch and using the best of aromatic spices, dried fruit, nuts and a large variety of vegetables, Bouchra Sidali creates a truly traditional selection of dishes.

Albino Silva

of Chiado

As one of the few four-star restaurants in Toronto, Chiado lures patrons from all over the world to its elegant tables. With common purpose and truly Portuguese souls, owner Albino Silva and chef Manny Villela offer a dining experience not to be missed.

Steve Song

of Ultra Supper Club

Once you try Steve Song's desserts, you'll never be the same. This original, imaginative chef made his name at Oro before wowing patrons at Senses. He now has diners swooning over his breads and sweets at the new and elegant Ultra Supper Club. Join Steve as he prepares an assortment of most memorable hits.

Manny Villela

of Chiado

As one of the few four-star restaurants in Toronto, Chiado lures patrons from all over the world to its elegant tables. With common purpose and truly Portuguese soul, chef Manny Villela offers a dining experience not to be missed.

Susie Weinthal

Cookbook author Susie Weinthal is joined by her son Owen in a one-of-a- kind cooking event. Susie grew up in a frantic Jewish home in Brooklyn where eating was a religion, and all kinds of food were enjoyed. Through well-loved stories and recipes , Susie and Owen offer a window into what makes the modern Jewish family tick. Great Food!

Winlai Wong

After graduating from the Stratford Chefs School, Winlai Wong’s exceptional skills quickly propelled her to the position of executive chef at Monsoon. This award-winning chef combines her heritage, talent and experience to create an intoxicating selection of New Asian culinary inspirations. Be treated to an exceptional cooking experience as you share in Winlai’s flair and passion for truly delicious and unique dishes.

Joanne Yolles

of Pangaea

Joanne, whose career began in her mother's kitchen, trained at Tante Marie's Cooking school in California. She then established herself as one of the best pastry chefs in this city creating desserts at Fentons and Scaramouche. Her recipes and techniques have proven very useful for many bakers.