July 04, 2021
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HOST: KEVIN CASTONGUAY
There is nothing more momentous this year than a family gathering. To gather at all is cause for celebration, but to be able to do it with the ones you love most—the ones you haven’t been able to see or hug or pass food around a table with—feels both new and joyous and festive, but also deeply comforting. This was the atmosphere of our first private Piena of 2021 (one that Ezra and I were so blessed to be part of), and to mark the occasion we chose a chef who embodies all of these things.
“It’s honest food, but prepared with a lot of thought and consideration. I’m always thinking about the seasons, different textures and the play of colours with every dish."
Kevin Castonguay founded his catering company Provisions eight years ago in order to bring fine dining to everyone. Previously Sous Chef and Executive Chef at both beloved Toronto restaurants Woodlot and Grace, Kevin never hides his humble beginnings. As he once proudly remarked to Notable: “I didn’t start at The French Laundry—it was an Applebee’s.” Today, he continues to marry the nostalgia of family-style food and gatherings with his contemporary and artistic approach to well-known classics.
“It’s honest food, but prepared with a lot of thought and consideration. I’m always thinking about the seasons, different textures and the play of colours with every dish. I love cooking for people. I still get that same euphoric feeling that I had when I first started cooking, and if I can make everyone walk away feeling that blissful—well, what more could you ask for?”
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Photography: Marissa Joan Ho
Editing: Aliyah Craig
Art Direction / Styling / Design: Lune
