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?
That’s a tricky question. I learned so much in culinary school, and I loved every minute of it. I went to Niagara College, where we covered everything from fresh pasta, butchery, and sushi to sauces, wine, beer, and even horticulture.
If I could go back and cook one thing on the very first day, it would be something deeply comforting like a simple pasta with a really great sauce. The first day can be intimidating, and sometimes what you need most is a warm, familiar dish that feels like a hug.
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?
A dish I’m best known for is my squab pastilla. It’s the dish that ultimately won me Top Chef Canada. The pastilla is a flaky pastry filled with braised squab leg, caramelized onions, raisins, almonds, and cinnamon. It was inspired by a street food I fell in love with while traveling in Morocco, and I wanted to reimagine it as a composed, fine-dining plate for the Top Chef Canada finale. I served it alongside a seared squab breast, a silky cauliflower purée with foie gras foam, and a sherry-infused squab jus. It’s a dish that hits my heart every single time.
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?
People don’t usually love it when I’m on DJ duty. I’m unapologetically all about country music. So, you’ll definitely catch me blasting Lainey Wilson.
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 find me on Instagram at @chefericak and @bringonthekarbs, or visit my website for private events at www.karbscatering.ca.
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