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A Taste of Taste: Chef Cory Vitiello

Fort York will soon be filled with foodies. From July 24 to 27, Taste of Toronto will be taking over the historic space to feature the culinary creations of some of the city’s most notable chefs. It marks the North American debut of the world-renowned food festival. And yes, we’ll be there in all our diet-breaking glory

Fort York will soon be filled with foodies.

From July 24 to 27, Taste of Toronto will be taking over the historic space to feature the culinary creations of some of the city’s most notable chefs. It marks the North American debut of the world-renowned food festival.

And yes, we’ll be there in all our diet-breaking glory.

But we decided you should probably know some of the chefs who’ll be backing this monumental festival if you want to get a better idea of what you’re in for. So that’s why we’ll be profiling a different one each week leading up to the event. And hey, if knowing a thing or two helps you score free seconds, we’re happy to help. 

Kicking it off this week is Chef Cory Vitiello, the easy-on-the-eyes culinary creator behind Toronto staples The Harbord Room and THR & Co…

What can we expect to see and taste from you at Taste of Toronto? 
We have fun and refreshing summer menu, featuring plays on a few of our favourites – including my go-to hot weather dessert. 

What is the best part about participating in a food and drink festival? 
It’s really all about being involved within the community for me, and it’s always a great experience cooking alongside my chef friends as well. 

What is the best part about the Toronto culinary scene? The worst? 
The best:  

This city’s restaurant scene is one big family – there is so much positive support among chefs and restaurants. It’s really special to be part of it all.   

The worst: 

Anthony Rose’s chest hair. 

What’s always in your fridge?
Space. Lots of space. 

What city or country would you visit/move to for the food alone? 
Vienna for their pastries and sausages. 

What’s the biggest mistake you can make as an up-and-coming chef? What lessons have you learned? 
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Just do your thing and the rest will unfold.

What makes you come back to a restaurant after a first visit? If it wasn’t all you expected, would you try it again? 
The staff makes the place, in my opinion. Restaurants have good and bad days like anything else, but it’s the personalities within a restaurant that make me come back. 

What is your favourite way to spend a Sunday in Toronto? 
Usually I’m cooking at the restaurant on Sunday. If I’m lucky enough to have it free, I’m cooking in my backyard, never leaving the house.  

What now closed former Toronto gem (restaurant, store, etc) do you miss the most? 
Niagara St. Cafe. 

Who is the most notable person to eat your food? Any celebs, etc? 
I would never divulge… so let’s just say my mom. 

Predictions for Toronto’s culinary scene in the next five years? 
I think burgers could be a thing. Oh, wait…

Stay tuned next week for Anthony Rose (Rose and Sons, Big Crow and Fat Pasha) and find more details on Taste of Toronto here.

#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)

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