Toronto’s first ever Tastemaker 2018 experience [With Video]

I had received a pair of tickets complimentary from Tastemaker to cover the event. All opinions are my own.

I had a chance to attend Toronto’s first ever Tastemaker held at the Evergreen Brickworks on May 18th and 19th, 2018. The all-inclusive ticket allowed guests to access all programming and events on a session-based entry, with unlimited food and drinks. I went to the sold out May 18th evening session.

Check out my short 1 minute video to see what it was like to be at Toronto’s very first Tastemaker. Please SUBSCRIBE to my channel (monthly videos).

Guests were able to watch the Chef collaborations in action, and taste their delectable dishes. For the Paderno Challenge Kitchen, Carl Heinrich (Richmond Station) and Ted Corrado (The Drake) competed to produce dishes based on a specific ingredient using Paderno cookware. The competition was hosted by TV personality Pay Chen.

Carl Heinrich (Richmond Station), Pay Chen, and Ted Corrado (The Drake)

In the Sobey’s Tastemaker Kitchen, collaborations included Afrim Pristine (Cheese Boutique) and Alida Solomon (Tutti Matti), as well as Michael Hunter (Antler Kitchen & Bar) and Vikram Vij (Vij’s).

Chef Michael Hunter @ Toronto’s Tastemaker 2018

The dishes from Michael Hunter and Vikram Vij included coconut curried vegetable; roast venison; fire roasted lamb spiced with garam masala served with cucumber raita; and a seafood medley with fenugreek cream curry. I didn’t have a chance to taste the seafood medley, but the other dishes were incredible! The meat was flavourful and tender, and the spices made each dish appetizing.

Roast Venison on Venison Madras Curry, Scented Basmati Rice, and Sumac Apricot Chutney.

There was also a Toronto Life Pairing Table, which allowed guests to experience unique food and drink pairings.

Vendors

The dishes from the chef collaborations were my favourite dishes of the evening. Other notable items I enjoyed were:

Artisan chocolates from The Chocolate Messenger.
Scallop ceviche from The Donnelly Group
Pizza from Piano Piano
Jeow Bong chili paste and hot sauce from Inthisorn Foods

Check out the full list of vendors here.

Overall experience

I went with my husband and we made the most of our evening by staying until almost closing and tried as many dishes and drinks. The place was definitely happening on a Friday evening with a gorgeous outdoor patio, and guests dancing to the live DJ. It was also jammed packed with lineups galore!

Like any event, I am confident there are lessons learned to make next year even better. For lineups at this event or any busy event, I suggest attending with a group and break off into different lines, and grab extra dishes for your friends when you get to the vendors. That way, no one is hangry.

I would suggest leaving your car at home, or park in a nearby parking lot and take alternate transportation. We learned our lesson by trying to park at the venue which was full before the event started.

As for the ticket price of $60 before tax, it is worth it for attendees like me who tried many dishes and drinks.

Thank you again to Tastemaker for allowing me to experience the first ever Tastemaker in Toronto.