Pedal Pub Food Tour - The New Foodie Experience You Need to Try!

Toronto is a city full of life, culture, and most importantly, incredible food. As someone who is always on the lookout for unique ways to experience the city’s culinary scene, when I heard about Pedal Bike Toronto and their new Food Tour, I knew I had to check it out and share my experience with you all!

• Also check out Toronto’s Only Brunch Food Tour with Culinary Adventure Co

The Pedal Bike Experience

You may have seen these giant bikes in various cities around the world on your previous travels just cruising down the streets. Did you know that Toronto also have these same bikes?! Imagine cruising through Toronto’s bustling streets on a giant bike with 14 other adventurous souls. That’s what you get with Pedal Bike Toronto. This isn’t your average bike ride; it’s a pedal-powered pub on wheels. With everyone working together to pedal, it’s a fantastic way to bond with friends or make new ones while exploring the city. The energy is infectious, and the laughs are plenty as you navigate through the heart of downtown.

Each ride is a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and a good workout (yes, you’ll be burning calories!). The pedals are not a gimmick. They do work and teamwork is required to move the bike. The bike itself is designed for comfort and fun, with a professional driver (or “Beerless Leader” they call it) guiding the way so you can focus on pedalling, chatting, and enjoying the ride. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this experience offers a fresh perspective on Toronto’s vibrant cityscape.

The New Food Tour: A Culinary Adventure

Pedal Bike Toronto has upped the ante with their newly launched Food Tour, running every Thursday and Sunday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. For $79.99 per person (plus 18% gratuity and HST), you get a two-hour tour that combines the thrill of the pedal bike with the joy of sampling some of the best food Toronto has to offer within the Entertainment District. Drinks aren’t included in the price, but they’re available for purchase at each stop.

Our journey began at Fat Bao at Stackt Market, a trendy spot known for its delectable bao buns. Serving delicious neo-Chinese snacks anchored by their famous bao line up and an array of Asian snacks, the flavors were explosive and set the perfect tone for our culinary adventure.

From there, we pedaled our way to WVRST, a modern beer hall that specializes in artisan sausages, craft beer, and good times. The variety of sausages, from traditional to exotic, paired with their wide selection of craft beers, made this stop a highlight of the tour. The lively atmosphere and communal tables added to the fun, making it a place where you could easily lose track of time enjoying the company and the food. If you’re an adventurous eater, they even serve Kangaroo sausages here.

Next up was Saint John's Tavern, where we immersed ourselves in the charm of a British tavern and oyster house. From fresh oysters to hearty pub classics, the authentic flavors transported us straight to the UK and Ireland. The ambiance was cozy, and the dishes were comforting, making it a great place to relax and refuel. Lobster rolls were on the menu here, and you bet I grabbed more than just one!

Our final stop was Courage Cookies, a sweet ending to our savory journey. Born out of the lockdown, Courage Cookies started with a simple idea: to share the surplus of delicious treats with friends and loved ones. Their cookies are simply divine, with the perfect balance of chewiness and flavour. I had to choose Oreo, there was just no other choice for me! Each bite was a little piece of heaven, making it the ideal conclusion to our food tour.

Conclusion

The Pedal Bike Toronto Food Tour is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to explore the city, meet new people, and enjoy some of the best food Toronto has to offer, all while getting a bit of exercise. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening, this tour is a must-try. I absolutely loved seeing all the stranger’s reactions as we biked throughout the entire tour. So many people were dancing along with us, waving, taking pictures, and just absorbing all of the infectious positive energy the Pedal Bike experience naturally exudes.

So gather your friends, put on your pedalling shoes, and get ready for a unique and delicious adventure. The Pedal Bike Toronto Food Tour is waiting for you, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it!

Toronto’s Only Brunch Food Tour with Culinary Adventure Co!

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of getting a sneak peek into Toronto’s only brunch food tour, set to officially launch on August 4th, 2024. Hosted by Culinary Adventure Co., Toronto’s number one rated food tour company, this experience was nothing short of spectacular. Guided by the ever-enthusiastic Kaitlin, we embarked on a culinary journey that showcased the best of King West and the Entertainment District neighborhoods.

A Journey Through Toronto’s Hippest Hoods

Our adventure began with a stroll through King West and the Entertainment District, an area known for its trendy eateries and vibrant nightlife. As we wandered the streets, Kaitlin pointed out significant landmarks and shared fascinating stories about the neighborhood's history and culture. Our first stop was at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, where many top musicals play to sold-out crowds every night. Did you know that Toronto is the third most popular city in North America for watching musicals, only behind New York City and Chicago? And that Ed Mirvish, the man behind the theater, is the same Ed from Honest Ed’s? I’ve lived in Toronto my whole life, and there are still facts about the city that surprise me. This brunch tour offers something new and educational to locals and tourists alike.

A Surprise Treat: Lemon Meringue Caramel Popcorn

One of the delightful surprises of the tour was the Lemon Meringue Caramel popcorn from Comeback Snacks. Kaitlin pulled this treat out of her bag of goodies, highlighting local businesses. This unique treat offered a perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet caramel, creating an explosion of flavors that was both unexpected and delightful. The best part was learning its origin story: the founder came up with the business idea while in prison. Their slogan, “Popcorn So Good, It’s Criminal!” is spot on! This was the ideal snack to keep us energized as we continued our journey, and I was thrilled to take home an entire bag of this delicious popcorn.

A Visit to the TIFF Lightbox

No tour of the Entertainment District would be complete without a stop at the TIFF Lightbox. Home to the Toronto International Film Festival, this cultural hub celebrates the art of cinema and was a fitting venue to highlight the tour’s inspiration. One of the fun stops included Varda at TIFF Lightbox, inspired by the film festival’s red carpet elegance. The Lightbox’s sleek, modern architecture and rich cinematic history made it a memorable stop on our journey.

Capturing Iconic Views

Kaitlin ensured we had ample opportunities to capture the best photo ops of the iconic CN Tower. The towering structure, set against Toronto's skyline, provided a breathtaking backdrop for our photos, adding a touch of grandeur to our brunch adventure. Even though this tour focuses on Toronto’s brunch scene, it also highlights picturesque moments along the way with plenty of photo opportunities.

Middle Eastern Brunch at East Tea Can

Our brunch experience reached new heights at East Tea Can, located at Wellington Market at the Well. Here, we indulged in a Middle Eastern feast that was both exotic and comforting. It’s not everyone’s typical idea of brunch, but that’s what makes this tour worth every penny. It challenges our taste buds and our view of brunch, proving it’s more than just eggs benedict and pancakes. The aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes transported our taste buds to distant lands with a variety of dips and spreads served with freshly baked Samoon bread. It was a true testament to the diversity and richness of Toronto’s culinary scene.

Sweet Endings at Forno Cultura

The tour concluded on a sweet note at Forno Cultura, an Italian bakery renowned for its delectable cookies and treats. We sampled a variety of goodies, each one more delicious than the last. The highlight for me was the Coffee Lemonade – a unique concoction I was initially skeptical about but ended up loving! Created by a company based in Quebec, this drink, called the “Cafelimo Fizz,” paired refreshing citrus with robust coffee, creating a carbonated drink that was both invigorating and refreshing.

Tour Highlights

• 18+ tastings … get ready to indulge.

• Bubbly + boozy Mimosas

• Australian morning classic

• Hand-crafted Turkish Coffee

• Decadent French Pastries

• Savory Middle Eastern

• Artisan Canadian Cheeses

• Locally made ‘Movie Snacks’

• Italian Cookies + Treats

• Fun and filmic stops

• A perfect tour for friends + celebrations

• Our most decadent food tour

Cost

• $129 Adult

• $119 Senior (60+)

Final Thoughts

Toronto’s only brunch food tour is set to redefine Sunday brunch. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable culinary journey through some of Toronto’s trendiest neighborhoods. So, invite your friends, pick a Sunday, and get ready for a brunch experience that serves laughs, memories, and special moments with every bite. As Culinary Adventure Co. aptly puts it, “Come Hungry… Every Bite Tells A Story.”

Stay tuned for more delicious adventures and make sure to book your spot on this decadent brunch tour. You won’t want to miss it!

Inside SIAL Canada 2024: The Best of Food Innovation in Montreal!

For the past six years, I have had the incredible opportunity to partner with SIAL Canada, one of the premier food innovation trade shows in North America. This is my third time attending the event in Montreal, and each year it feels like a homecoming. SIAL Canada has become one of my favourite tradeshows to look forward to, not only because of the sheer scale and diversity of the event but also for the unparalleled networking opportunities it offers. As a food blogger, there is nothing quite like witnessing firsthand the unveiling of amazing, innovative food and beverage products that push the boundaries of the industry.

Read a recap of my Montreal SIAL Canada 2022 experience here.
Read a recap of my Toronto SIAL Canada 2019 experience here.
Read a recap of my Montreal SIAL Canada 2018 experience here.

Every year, the creativity and passion of the exhibitors just gets better and better. It's a fantastic chance to meet like-minded individuals who share a deep love for food and innovation. The atmosphere is always electric, buzzing with excitement as thousands of professionals gather to showcase their latest creations and explore new possibilities. This year was no exception, and I was thrilled to dive into the culinary wonders that SIAL Canada 2024 had to offer. The anticipation of discovering new trends, tasting cutting-edge products, and attending insightful conferences makes this tradeshow a highlight of my calendar year.

Being a media guest at SIAL Canada not only allows me to stay ahead of the curve in the food industry but also gives me the privilege to share these experiences with all of you! It’s an event that truly celebrates the future of food, and I’m always eager to bring those stories and innovations back to you. So, join me as I recount my incredible journey through SIAL Canada 2024, starting with my delightful stay at Hotel Monville and exploring the myriad of experiences that made this trip unforgettable.

A Cozy Stay at Hotel Monville

My home base for this adventure was the chic and contemporary Hotel Monville, nestled in the heart of Montreal’s Quartier international on De Bleury Street. Hotel Monville is a four-star hotel that targets both business people and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the Montreal experience. From the moment I checked in, Hotel Monville impressed me with its sleek design and modern amenities. The location couldn’t have been more convenient—just literally a one minute walk from Palais des Congres de Montreal where SIAL Canada was hosted. My room was a perfect blend of comfort and style, featuring a stunning view of the city skyline.

One of the unique features of Hotel Monville is its autonomous delivery robot, developed by the California firm Savioke. This robot carries orders directly to guests’ rooms in record time, making room service a truly futuristic experience. Guests can also check in easily and quickly at electronic kiosks, where they automatically receive their room keys. This efficient system allows the hotel’s human receptionists to dedicate more time to helping guests discover Montreal’s many attractions.

The hospitality at Hotel Monville was also top-notch. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, ensuring my stay was as pleasant as possible with room service every day so you know you’ll be coming into a clean and made-up bed each and every night. After long days at the trade show, it was a relief to return to such a welcoming and restful environment. I couldn’t have asked for a better home away from home during my Montreal trip.

Exploring SIAL Canada 2024

SIAL Canada 2024 was a gastronomic wonderland, with over 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 44 countries showcasing their innovative products. There were so many exhibitors this year that it was the very first time the tradeshow took place over two floors. Walking through the expansive halls, I was amazed by the diversity of offerings, from gourmet snacks and beverages to cutting-edge food technology. Each booth told a unique story, reflecting the passion and creativity of its creators. I had the chance to sample an array of delectable foods and drinks, many of which were new to me. It was inspiring to see so many businesses pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the culinary world and to me is one of the key reasons why anyone should make a visit to SIAL Canada.

The SIAL Innovation Awards

One of the highlights of the event was the annual SIAL Innovation Awards. This prestigious ceremony recognizes the most groundbreaking products in the food industry. Among the 200 applications from 17 countries, competition co-presidents Isabelle Marquis and Xavier Terlet selected 74 products from 13 countries that embody the innovative spirit of SIAL Canada exhibitors.

These products were chosen by the Grand Jury based on several criteria:

• The product was launched from January 2023 onwards.

• It offers something new or different from what is known in the Canadian market and has the potential to expand to several markets.

• It creates value for the intended target and is likely to inspire other food companies to replicate or enhance the concept.

• It is innovative in at least one of the following areas: recipe and composition, packaging, manufacturing process, or marketing positioning.

This year’s grand winners were particularly impressive. The Gold Award went to El Gusto Foods, a high-quality ground coffee in a compostable bag that clings to the rim of the cup for perfect brewing. This product was selected for its practicality and quality of execution, allowing premium coffee to be enjoyed anywhere.

The Silver Award was claimed by Huile d'Olivia by Dear Goodness, a line of olive oils created to pair with specific dishes. The jury was impressed by the blending of selected olive varieties to match distinct dishes and the aromatic descriptions provided for each type.

The Bronze Award went to La Presserie for their line of Asian-inspired frozen and vacuum-packed soups made from natural ingredients. These soups were selected for their authentic recipes and the innovative skin pack packaging.

Additionally, the Packaging Award was given to ABC Emballuxe Inc. for their reusable pizza box, suitable for three sizes of pizza. This product was recognized for its sustainable attributes and design flexibility.

The Opening Ceremony

The excitement began with the grand opening ceremony right after the all the SIAL Innovation Awards were handed out to the recipients. The opening ceremony is a vibrant celebration that will set the stage for the three-day event. It featured keynote speeches from industry leaders who shared their insights on the future of food innovation with a blend of inspiration and enthusiasm that highlighted the event's significance. The energy in the room was infectious, and it was clear that everyone in attendance was passionate about the future of food.

The Start Up Pitch Competition

Another event that stood out was the Start Up Pitch Competition. This competition gave emerging food startups a platform to showcase their innovative products, technologies, or services to a panel of judges and an enthusiastic audience. The creativity and ingenuity on display was truly remarkable. I found myself rooting for several of the participants, each presenting unique solutions to some of the industry's biggest challenges. The competition was fierce, but it was a fantastic opportunity to see the next generation of food entrepreneurs in action. With only three-minutes to impress the panel of judges, each competitor needed to quickly showcase and convince them why their product is unique from everything out there already and deserves the spotlight.

This year’s competition highlighted some truly inspiring startups. The first-place winner was Epic Tofu, a company offering pre-chopped, marinated, and ready-to-cook tofu products that taste out of this world. Artisan-made in Montreal, Quebec, with non-GMO and organic ingredients. Epic Tofu stood out for its convenience and commitment to quality. As a busy food blogger who loves plant-based options, I was particularly impressed by how easy and delicious Epic Tofu makes it to enjoy a healthy meal. Their innovative approach to tofu preparation is set to revolutionize how we incorporate this versatile protein into our diets.

The second-place award went to Dunord, which offers plant-based meal kits made from local farm surplus and inspired by the abundance of the boreal ecosystem. Dunord’s focus on sustainability and reducing food waste resonated deeply with me. Their meal kits not only provide nutritious, plant-based meals but also support local farmers and promote eco-friendly practices. It’s a win-win for consumers and the environment, and I’m excited to see how Dunord will continue to grow and impact the food industry.

In third place was Maison Théier, a company brewing alcohol-free wine made from the finest tea in the world. Their alcohol-free tea wine is a new product based on the fermentation of exclusively imported tea from Asia. They import very high-quality tea from terroirs in Asia and infuse it with high-quality water, creating a unique and sophisticated beverage. As someone who appreciates both fine tea and innovative non-alcoholic beverages, I found Maison Théier’s product to be a refreshing alternative to traditional wine. It’s perfect for those who seek the complexity and enjoyment of wine without the alcohol content.

These winners not only showcased incredible products but also demonstrated how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. The Start Up Pitch Competition was a highlight of SIAL Canada 2024, offering a glimpse into the future of the food and beverage industry.

A Feast for the Senses

One of the most enjoyable aspects of SIAL Canada was the opportunity to sample an incredible variety of food and drink. Walking up and down the two floors of the event, I was treated to a sensory overload of tastes and aromas. From artisanal cheeses and gourmet chocolates to exotic beverages and innovative snacks, there was something for every palate. Each sample provided a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship of its entrepreneurs. It was a food lover’s paradise, and I made sure to savour every moment. Here were some of my favourite booths this year!

Conferences and Industry Insights

SIAL Canada is not just about showcasing products; it’s also a hub for knowledge exchange. The event hosts a plethora of conferences where speakers from across the industry share their expertise and insights. I attended one of the final conferences on the last day of the tradeshow, which focused on food marketing on TikTok in the social media space. It was fascinating to learn about the strategies brands are using to engage with a younger audience on this rapidly growing platform. Lindsey Tracey - Head of Industry (Growth) who currently works at TikTok provided valuable tips on creating viral content and leveraging TikTok’s unique features to boost brand visibility. This session was particularly relevant for me as a food blogger, offering fresh ideas to incorporate into my social media strategy.

Conclusion

My trip to Montreal for SIAL Canada 2024 was an unforgettable experience. It was a privilege to be a media guest at such a significant event in the food industry, and I returned home with a wealth of new knowledge and inspiration. I can’t wait to see how the innovations I witnessed will shape the future of food. Until next time, Montreal! We’ll be back in Toronto for SIAL 2025!

SIAL Canada 2022 Back Better Than Ever in Montreal Post Pandemic!

North America’s largest food innovation trade show has made its much anticipated in-person return to Montreal after going 100% virtual over the past few years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. After participating in SIAL Canada back in 2018 and 2019, it’s become my favourite trade show to attend in the food industry and I’ve been itching to go back in person to witness all the marvellous food innovations and technological and sustainable advancements that many of the participating food companies have excitingly achieved.

Read a recap of my Montreal SIAL Canada 2018 experience here.
Read a recap of my Toronto SIAL Canada 2019 experience here.

SIAL Canada is the only national trade show that offers a complete range of food products under one roof with more than 1,200 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries, alternating host cities between Montreal and Toronto. It’s become a key to the Canadian agrifood industry and acts as an entryway to the US and international markets with over 25,000 buyers from all around the world attending. It’s pretty simple here, the exposure you get when you have a booth at SIAL Canada is unparalleled to any other trade show you’ll find in Canada.

This year in 2022, SIAL Canada was back in Montreal (and in person as well, no more zoom meetings!) from April 20th to April 22nd at the always lovely Palais Des Congres in the heart of the downtown core. I was so ecstatic to be invited back to the trade show this year and quite simply just be back with people! It was the first flight I’ve taken in two years since the pandemic began, and I couldn’t be happier that it was going to be in the world-class city of Montreal.

If you are planning to one day visit SIAL Canada in Montreal, choosing a convenient accommodation is going to be one of the first important decisions you will have to make. Since SIAL Canada runs over a span of 3 days, you’re going to want easy access to the Palais Des Congres. The first time I was in Montreal, my hotel was about a 10 minute Uber ride away. Although that may not sound too far, being mere minutes away walking wise from the facility was a total game changer this year and a huge convenience to have. I was able to quickly go back to my hotel room for breaks and recharge whenever I felt like it, and then being able to quickly go right back to the action whenever I wanted was amazing. With all that being said, if you’re looking for a modern and affordable hotel that is literally a one minute walk to the Palais Des Congres in downtown Montreal, look no further than Hotel Le Dauphin - Montreal Centre Ville. You don’t even need to bring your own laptop with you because every room is equipped with your very own Macbook!

During the first day of SIAL Canada, my favourite event happens in the early morning which is the annual SIAL Innovation Awards! In its 14th edition this year, the top finalists are each trying to take home the Gold ($10,000 prize), Silver ($5,000 prize), Bronze ($5,000 prize), and Sustainability ($3, 750 prize) awards for being the most innovative products of the year. This is always measured on four criteria: packaging, manufacturing process, merchandising, and recipe. This competition is open to all exhibitors where the winners will undoubtedly receive international recognition thanks to the World Champion Tour where they will be showcased in other SIAL trade shows around the world, and is why winning this prestigious honour can really catapult a product’s reach from a national audience to world-wide.

Read a recap of the 2019 SIAL Innovation Awards here.

Here are this year’s 2022 Finalists and Winners!

GROUNDUP - GROUNDUP ECO-VENTURES - CANADA (GOLD AWARD)

Range of flours and baking mixes made of upcycled ingredients. Selected as a new example of circular economy made accessible by the valorization of rejected ingredients into convenient, nutritious and tasty products.

TEMPEHINE - LES ALIMENTS MERJEX INC. - CANADA (SILVER AWARD)

Range of organic marinated and precooked ground tempeh. Selected for the quality of composition and the use of a new process to make tempeh a ready-to-use and versatile ingredient, enabling the addition of vegetable proteins to a wide variety of meals.

LA PRESSERIE - LA PRESSERIE - CANADA (BRONZE AWARD)

Range of raw and unpasteurized vinaigrettes made from cold pressed fruits and vegetables. Selected for their simple and natural composition, the use of fresh ingredients and the cold pressing process which adds culinary appeal to the products

GOOD CHIPS - PARAMO SNACKS - COLOMBIA (SUSTAINABILITY AWARD)

Organic beet and yacon chips with no added oil or sugar. Selected for the naturalness and authenticity of the product resulting from the origin of the ingredients, for the transformation process and the manufacturer's relevant commitments to sustainable development.

FARO - BRÛLERIES FARO ROASTING HOUSES - CANADA

Coffee beans aged in microbrewery oak barrels. Selected for the manufacturing process using an ageing technique that is unusual for coffee, for the sophistication of the product and the original packaging.

CLUB SÉLECT - CLUB KOMBUCHA - CANADA

High-end kombucha presented as wine. Selected for the premiumization of the kombucha offer and the proposed varieties. This product reinvents kombucha as a shared experience to be enjoyed over a nice meal.

ALTERNATIVE KITCHEN - LOC INDUSTRIES - CANADA

Range of products made from organic textured vegetable proteins. Selected for the diversity of the range allowing multiple applications as meat or carbohydrate substitutes, as well as the more ecological transformation process.

SIGNÉ CAMÉLINE - OLIMÉGA SIGNÉ CAMÉLINE - CANADA

Roasted camelina oil. Selected for the new taste experience due to the roasting of the camelina seed, offering a local, gourmet and allergen-free alternative to sesame oil

BAR TO COOK - THE FOODIE FAMILY - CANADA

Bars of sauce with world recipes. Selected for the originality of the format that makes the creation of culinary experiences very easy and accessible to all home cooks. Simple ingredients make it all the more appealing.

Once the SIAL Innovation Awards are handed out, the world was than my oyster here as I had three days to walk around the trade show floors, booth-to-booth, exhibitor-to-exhibitor, from one country to the next learning and finding what the next big food product is. If you’re one of those people who are trying to get their step counter in for their fit bit, coming here will definitely grant you those 12,000 steps you are looking for. This place is huge and you’ll have no problem filling up your day with things to do.

Besides the exhibitor’s booths here at SIAL Canada where if you’re lucky enough you may even be able to take some samples home with you, there are also a variety of other activities scheduled throughout the three days for you to enjoy.

You’re able to book some conferences in where you can take a sharp look within the food industry by sitting in on a variety of talks hosted by expert trend hunters in the agri-food industry. A selection of experts from various backgrounds speak at SIAL Canada each year to share with us the most up-to-date information on the food industry such as the any concerning issues, innovation, market trends and opportunities, and changes in purchasing behaviour.

If you’re a bit more of a thrill-seeker, you can also attend one of the many exciting competitions that play out throughout the trade show (outside of the SIAL Innovation Awards). Pick from the International Cheese Competition, the Olive d’Or Competition, and the Start-Up Pitch Competition. And of course you’ll be able to also see some live cooking demos while mingling with some other culinary professionals at the La Cuisine and the Inspire Drink workshops. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy!

One of the great perks of also going to SIAL Canada is that you’re in a world-class city of Montreal, and if you’re like a foodie like me, you’ll have nothing short of a laundry list of wonderful places to go eat out at when you’re not walking the trade show floors and want to satisfy those cravings you may be having after seeing all the food at the exhibitor’s booths.

Here are some of my top cafes to eat at while you’re visiting Montreal for SIAL Canada that is all in walking distance from the Palais Des Congres. I didn’t use any form of public transportation or car sharing services during my time here in Montreal, just my two feet!

La Finca Cafe (Two Minute Walk from SIAL Canada)

Mandy’s (Six Minute Walk from SIAL Canada)

Olive et Gourmando (Six Minute Walk from SIAL Canada)

Patrice Patissier (Thirty Minute Walk from SIAL Canada)

The planning for SIAL Canada 2023 is already under way. Next year it’ll be back in Toronto at the Enercare Centre from May 9th to May 11th, 2023 where we get to do this all over again! Hope to see you all there!

The Stella Supper Club is the Stella Artois x HYR Live Collaboration We've All Been Waiting For!

There are many different clubs out there in the world. The night club where you dance the night away. The book club where you can get lost in an imaginary universe. Or just a school club where you join not always because you’re interested in it, but because all your friends are there (been there, done that!). Now where is the club for foodies? The club for learning by interacting with seasoned professionals? Well folks, I’m here to invite you to the best foodie club there is. It’s called the Stella Supper Club and it just might be the club you’ve all been waiting and searching for to join!

Stella Artois and HYR Live have partnered together to create The Stella Supper Club, where it brings a variety of all-inclusive live and on-demand cooking classes with Canada’s top Chefs right into your kitchen. All of the ingredients are then delivered straight to your door within the Stella Supper Club meal kit to make this interactive cooking class as stress-free and easy as possible. All you need is an internet connection, some basic cooking utensils, maybe one or two kitchen helpers, and just an appetite to not only feed your stomach but also your mind as you learn from some of the very best chefs in our country.

With great skill in eating a diverse range of food, but not so much in the actual creation of it, I was very excited in getting a chance to take part in one of these live cooking classes. I mean I need all the help I can get when it comes to the kitchen, and who better to teach me then acclaimed Chef Nuit Regular from the highly acclaimed Thai restaurant Pai Northern Kitchen in Toronto!

In preparation for my live cooking tutorial, Stella Artois also sent me a beautiful Home Chef essentials kit to give me a taste of what was to come. Within this package was a beautiful leather Stella Artois apron, a marble charcuterie board, and a couple of their iconic chalices to go along with a 6-pack of beer. As you can see, it was a perfect way to spend a day out on the balcony with some delicious charcuterie and a cold glass of Stella Artois.

As the much anticipated day of the cooking class finally arrived, I had a knock on my door and a fresh delivery of produce and ingredients was dropped off at my doorstep thanks to Chefdrop. For anyone that signs up for a Stella Supper Club experience, you’ll not only get all the required ingredients to make your dishes that night, everyone will also receive a 6 pack of Stella Artois and two Stella Artois chalices. It’s safe to say you can never have enough of those beautiful chalices in your home. Such a simple way to elevate your kitchen!

Once your box of ingredients arrives that morning/afternoon, open it up and refrigerate any items in your box right before the event starts that evening. On the menu for me that evening with Chef Nuit Regular was getting to turn up the heat inside by learning how to make her signature Thai Red Curry Chicken (Gaeng Phed Gai), complemented by her bold Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum Thai). Two dishes that I loved ordering whenever I visited her restaurant, so being able to make it at home was absolutely incredible!

Once it was 7PM it was time to go! I laid out all the necessary ingredients in front of me, hooked up my laptop and laid it out on the kitchen counter, opened up the email link that contained the direct link to the cooking class, and voila - class was in session! It was a seamless process with Hyr’s interactive chat and video capabilities making it super easy to ask any questions live to Chef Nuit Regular whenever I needed any clarification to a step. I also loved the fact that they really seemed to care about the participants who signed up for the class as they called out and thanked individuals by name who was part of the class which I think was a very nice touch.

The first part of the class was learning how to make the Red Curry and man oh man if you guys could smell the aromas in the kitchen when this was being cooked on the stove top. The scent of the red curry paste, thai basil mixed in with the Chinese eggplant, coconut milk, and fresh red spur chili was phenomenal! It really was a restaurant quality dish being made at home. And then to top it off with the homemade Papaya Salad was just a great way to end the night as the sweetness and sourness of the signature Pai salad dressing perfectly cut the heat of the spicy red curry. At the end of the night I just kept repeating to myself…. “I can’t believe I made this!”

One of my favourite parts of The Stella Supper Club is after the class is over, you can then watch the entire class all over again. On-Demand. Stream anytime, anywhere. It’s so convenient to have that capability because if you decide to re-create the dish at a later time on your own, you can easily pull up the video again of the cooking class you attended and follow along once more.

The Stella Supper Club is something I would highly recommend anyone to join, because not only do you get to learn from some of the very best chefs in the country, it’s also a great excuse to start downing some Stella Artois beers because hey… it’s all part of the cooking experience!

To see all the upcoming cooking classes and to register for one of their live tutorials, please visit the website here. Cheers!