Yes Shef, Yes Shef! Q&A With Lesle Gibson

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 give advice to your younger self on your first day entering the industry, what would it be?

I never thought of a career in wine let alone the restaurant industry, so when my younger self entered the world of wine and restaurants, it snowballed into this pretty great run in the industry now totalling 30 years. Advice to my younger self: don’t change a thing. Trust your instincts, stay the course. Be honest and open. This industry will evolve, I promise. It is truly remarkable how many amazing, talented women are now recognized. 

Of all the wine programs, pairings, or dining experiences you’ve developed throughout your career, which one holds the most personal story for you, and where can our readers experience it right now?

My intro into the restaurant scene was forever ago, taking a serious turn when I became a somm in 1996. Since then I’ve opened enough restaurants, hired the best staff and created every wine list to warrant the wrinkles – and I loved every minute. Now I’m at the highlight of my career with Gibson Family Group, creating my dream wine list with the best staff and much better sleep! 

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

It’s been way too long since my last Friday night service to remember. Set up, staff meal, countless reservations – it’s all a blur! But after service, that you never forget. At my very last resto Grace, it was all about Beyonce and runway.

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

A BIG cold glass of rose. With ice. 

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

You can follow along at @gibsonfamilygrp on Instagram. We’re always sharing what’s happening at GFG, the wines we’re currently excited about, and the incredible team behind it all. We also post fun, informative videos, everything from delightfully whacky food pairings to educational series that break wine down in an approachable way. It’s a real time snapshot into our world, where great wine, great people, and a little playful chaos all share the table.