Yes Shef, Yes Shef! Q&A With Suman Ali Sayed

As Yes Shef, the celebrated culinary event spotlighting women in the food and beverage industry, gets set to make its Ontario debut on Monday, March 9, 2026 at RC Show 2026, taking place at The International Centre in Mississauga, some of Canada’s most talented women chefs are prepping to take centre stage. We caught up with one of this year’s culinary stars to talk mentorship, inspiration, and what she’s serving up at this landmark celebration of women in food and drink. —Noa Nichol

Since Yes Shef! is all about pairing established pros with the next generation of talent, if you could go back in time and cook one meal for your younger self on your first day of culinary school, what would it be?

I still remember this vividly, it was my most memorable meal: tomato chutney with white rice and Loomi marinated fish (dehydrated lime is loomi). I was a scholarship student, and that first day of culinary school marked the fulfillment of a dream I had waited over three years to pursue after high school & working in professional kitchen. The meal was deeply personal,I had prepared everything the night before and cooked the fish fresh after coming back. It was a way of celebrating that moment, both for me and for the journey I had worked so hard to begin.

Of all the signature dishes you’ve created throughout your career, which one holds the most personal story for you, and where can our readers find the recipe (or a table to taste it) right now?

Bison kebabs hold a very special place in my heart. I created them for a Bahraini Majlis-style dinner in Muskoka in collaboration with Take Your Seat. The dish is a fusion of cultures: Canadian meat, Bahraini spices, and cooked over pit fire on cedar sticks. The experience and the storytelling behind it were even featured at Toronto Pearson International Airport in the form of Art. It’s a dish that represents connection, culture, and celebration and I love sharing it with people who want a taste of that story. On my IG Page & YouTube Channel.

What is the one song or album that is guaranteed to be playing in your kitchen to get the team hyped during a busy Friday night service?

‘Hall of Fame’ by The Script is my go-to. It brings power, adrenaline, and positive vibes. I still listen to it before TV appearances, major events, or locking deals, it’s my anthem for focus and energy.

After a long night of hosting tasting stations and mentoring students, what is your ultimate, “no-judgment” comfort food that you crave the second you get home?

Chicken Machboos with spiced shorbat addas (bahraini style lentils, chicken, and rice) is my ultimate, no-judgment comfort food. It’s hearty, familiar, and instantly grounding after a busy night.

You are doing incredible work for women in the hospitality industry—where can our readers follow your journey and keep up with your latest culinary adventures online?

You can follow my journey on Instagram at @chefsumanali, on LinkedIn as Suman Ali Sayed, and on YouTube at Chef Suman Ali. I love sharing everything from culinary tips and recipes to behind-the-scenes moments and collaborations. For mentorship, workshop programs etc on Playbook Edutainment app.