A new exchange program is bringing the World’s Best Chefs to YYC
Photo by zhang kaiyv on Unsplash
When you think of Canadian cuisine, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Poutine was probably numero uno, right? But Canada is so much more than just cheese and gravy! Calgary’s Chef Darren MacLean is determined to show the world what we have to offer beyond ketchup chips and Tim Hortons with his Cultural Chef Exchange program.
Maclean has partnered with Food Tourism Strategies for a year-long project, that will bring influential chefs to Calgary. Each month, the chosen chef will visit restos in and around the city to collaborate and learn. Essentially, this will be a sort of ‘Michelin Star study abroad.’
The hope is that with the Cultural Chef Exchange, the Final Table finalist can establish an international narrative about Canadian food and product. Not a bad idea, hey?
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Tomorrow! #SAIT hosts @ChefDMaclean for his first cultural chef exchange panel session feat. fellow ‘The Final Table’ contestant @chefintro. Details: https://t.co/TELdMbQfd1 #SAITculinary #yycevents #yyceats pic.twitter.com/eCpxIXHRvR
— SAIT Culinary (@SAITculinary) February 18, 2020
This whole program is kind of a win, win, win. Chefs get experience and hospitality and MacLean gets to ‘spread the word.’ But SAIT students and people who dine at select restaurants, like EIGHT will also benefit. We can always get behind someone sharing the wealth!
The “Chef of the Month” (request for fireman-type calendar pending) will present during a panel discussion at the Calgary campus. SAIT School and Hospitality and Tourism Students will participate in an open dialogue and meet and greet with whoever the guest might be. Fun right?
It all kicks off with this month’s chef, Ángel Vázquez. Vasquez won ‘Best New Restaurant’ at Mexico’s Gourmet Awards and brought home gold at FHA Singapore. Fancy.
To participate, register or attend one of MacLeans Cultural Chef Exchange dining experiences, you can do so here! You won’t want to miss your chance to check it out. Man, 2020 is going to be a tasty year.
