One of British Columbia’s most anticipated culinary events is back! Yes Shef returns on November 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the prestigious Fairmont Pacific Rim. The exclusive evening, hosted by WORTH Association, celebrates the remarkable contributions of women in the food and beverage industry.
Yes Shef is a powerful gathering where seasoned chefs honour the importance of nurturing new talent, blending mentorship with the joy of sharing their craft through food that delights and inspires. “Yes Shef is a vibrant celebration of the extraordinary women shaping our hospitality community,” said Joanna Jagger, Founder of WORTH Association. “It’s a platform to recognize their exceptional talent and contributions to the industry. This is the event I wish I had access to when I was starting my restaurant career, as I was often the only woman cooking on the line.”
Set in the opulent Star Sapphire ballroom of the Fairmont Pac Rim, this event promises an unparalleled culinary journey featuring an outstanding lineup of top women chefs from across the province. With over 20 tasting stations —16 culinary and multiple beverage offerings— attendees will indulge in a cocktail-style reception, savouring a curated selection of craft beverages and culinary creations from both returning favourites and new participants hailing from some of B.C.’s most acclaimed restaurants:
- Ying Ying Gao, Araxi
- Nutcha Phanthoupheng, Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine
- Eleanor Chow Waterfall, Cadeaux Bakery
- Tia Kambas, Chambar
- Marisa Gonzales, Hawksworth
- Kaeli Robinsong and Berenice Balbuena, Tacofino
- Stacy Johnston and Minette Lotz, The Restaurant at Poplar Grove
- Cactus Club Cafe
- Fairmont Hotels
- Tasha Sawyer, Growing Chefs (new for 2024)
- Brittney Lygo, Homer St. Cafe (new for 2024)
- Meeru Dhalwala and Shira Blustein, Lila (new for 2024)
- Discover more about the talented chefs leading this stellar event by visiting www.worthassociation.com/resources/meet-the-shefs-yes-shef-2024.
Ticket holders will also be thrilled by live entertainment featuring an all-women lineup, along with a wine wall and a show-stopping silent auction filled with luxury experiences.
Event Highlights:
- Date: Wednesday, November 6, 2024
- Time: 5:30 p.m. Welcome Reception | 6:00 p.m. Tasting Stations Open | 8:15 p.m. Awards Presentation | 9:30 p.m. Event Conclusion
- Venue: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Star Sapphire Ballroom
Tickets are now available for $200 at www.tickettailor.com/events/worthassociation/1333668. A limited number of presale tickets are offered at $175 with the promo code 2024EarlyBird.
Yes Shef is more than just a night of fine dining; it embodies a deep commitment to nurturing future culinary talent. The event pairs participating chefs with student apprentices from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts. Chef Tia Kambas of Chambar Restaurant describes Yes Shef as “a true passion project” and “a great way to give back to the culinary community, fostering development and mentorship across hospitality as a whole.” Echoing this sentiment, Chef Marisa Gonzales of Hawksworth shares, “Returning to Yes Shef is a joy for me. I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge with future pastry chefs, especially because I was fortunate to have strong female mentors who supported me when I was starting out. I also love showcasing our beautiful creations and embracing the opportunity to learn from my peers while networking with fellow female chefs.”
