Here’s your chance to work hand in hand with one of Toronto’s top chefs!
Aspiring chefs have the opportunity to gain invaluable career-building experiences alongside acclaimed culinary professionals with Resident Chef by Cookin.
This exclusive experience pairs one Cookin chef with a renowned culinary master to create a one-of-a-kind tasting menu at one of Toronto’s top restaurants. Participants not only collaborate in crafting this unique dining experience, but they also receive hands-on mentorship and guidance in the lead-up to the event, setting the stage for their future success in the culinary world.
Resident Chef is a once-in-a-lifetime immersive hospitality master class for one lucky Cookin chef.
This season’s collaboration is with Chef Victor Barry at his restaurant Piccolo Piano Pizzeria on November 25th, 2024.
UPCOMING RESIDENCY WITH
Chef Victor Barry
Victor Barry has deep roots in Ontario. His strong work ethic, a trait inherited from his father, has propelled him to become one of Toronto’s top culinary talents. A self-taught chef, he has honed his skills through experiences around the globe, leaving a lasting impact on Toronto’s restaurant scene.
As the former Chef de Cuisine at Splendido, Victor helped the restaurant achieve a prestigious #5 ranking on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list. He is the Chef-Owner of Piano Piano, which has four locations, as well as Piccolo Piano Pizzeria and Piano Piano Frozen Pizza. Recently, Victor expanded his brand by acquiring rival General Assembly, adding to their lineup of frozen pizzas. Always pushing culinary boundaries, Victor continues to innovate on the Toronto food scene.
Victor Barry debuts his 100 Layer Lasaga with Cookin
2023 WINNER
Patrick Kriss and Chef Sand
For our inaugural event, Michelin-starred chef Patrick Kriss, the owner and head chef of Alo, collaborated with Nuengluethai Tsoi of Baan Thai Food at his restaurant, Salon by Alo.
SUMMER 2024 WINNER
Nuit Regular and Chef Zulfikar
Zulfikar Fahd, chef of Java Bali Kitchen, earned the title of Resident Chef and worked with Chef Nuit Regular on a beautiful collab at KIIN.
FAQs
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants must register on the Resident Chef landing page and be an active user of the Cookin platform and achieve at least one sale through your storefront on the Cookin platform by October 29, 2024 to demonstrate your ability to succeed in this experience. The winner must be located in Canada and/or able to commute to Toronto, Ontario, to participate in the event.
When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be randomly selected and announced on October 30, 2024. The winner will be contacted directly and additionally across Cookin’s social media channels and email.
How is the Resident Chef selected?
The Resident Chef will be chosen at random from those who actively participate and meet the specified criteria.
How do I join the Cookin Platform?
Setting up your Cookin storefront is quick and easy, with no commitments or contracts—cancel anytime! New users can enjoy a 14-day free trial upon signing up. Get started at my.cookin.com
What is the time commitment?
In addition to your presence in the kitchen on November 25th for the event, you’ll engage in a virtual menu development session and a face-to-face mentorship session with Chef Victor Barry. This session will also serve as a content shoot for the program. There may be media opportunities as well that you’d need to make yourself available for.
Am I going to get paid?
No, funds collected for the event will be used to pay for the dinner itself via Piccolo Piano. You will get to enjoy the exposure of your business, and you’ll also get the amazing experience of being mentored by Chef Victor Barry and working alongside him for the evening.
How do I influence the menu?
This will be a collaborative process between you and Chef Victor Barry where you’ll be able to influence the event’s menu. There will be an opportunity to share your food journey, promote your cuisine, and your business, and present each course that evening to the guests.
Is this going to cost me any money?
No, this won’t cost you anything but your time. Piccolo Piano is responsible for paying for or shopping for any of the ingredients used.
