Acclaimed chef Michael Smith teases our taste buds for an entire weekend at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Feb. 21 to 23.
The bestselling cookbook author and host and judge on too many Food Network shows to count hosts East Coast Eats, an interactive culinary adventure bringing Maritime gastronomy to Muskoka.
“Deerhurst has a long history of being a culinary destination, and this event just reinforces that reputation,” says Deerhurst general manager Andrew Buwalda. “I love chef Smith’s brand, his support of local farmers, everything he’s doing for culinary arts across Canada. His culinary philosophy aligns with our resort’s brand.”
East Coast food is about fish and other seafood, of course, but more than that, it’s about hospitality and warmth — family and friends dining together in good company. That’s what this event promises: a party.
“This is our second year holding East Coast Eats, but this year, it will be even better than last,” enthuses Buwalda. “We’ll be making it more interactive, which is exciting because chef Smith has such great energy and passion.”
Smith is as authentically and passionately East Coast as one can find. He is, after all, Prince Edward Island’s honourary food ambassador. Guests can expect a true taste of the Maritimes. (When he flew in last year, Smith brought with him 2,000 freshly caught Atlantic oysters.)
The weekend kicks off with a Friday night welcome reception with culinary stations featuring East Coast dishes from Smith’s cookbooks. Highlighting the evening will be a showstopping demonstration of the art of sabering — cutting off a champagne cork with a knife, for those of us who aren’t sommeliers.
Saturday’s schedule includes opportunities to connect with and learn from Smith. Bring your favourite Smith cookbook or purchase his latest, Farmhouse Vegetables, and have it signed by the chef himself. Then, attend a How to Write a Cookbook Q&A, during which Smith will share behind-the-scenes stories and cooking tips from his well-loved cookbooks. It’s your chance to ask questions and have an expert response.
The Cook’s Edge, Canada’s largest importer of artisan Japanese chef knives, will have a pop-up shop where guests can discover and browse hand-forged chef knives.
A Saturday evening cocktail reception is followed by the highlight of the weekend — an interactive dinner with live oyster shucking, fire-driven chef stations, and Smith’s inimitable charm. Guests will enjoy exclusive access to Deerhurst Resort’s kitchen, where they will witness Deerhurst’s culinary team working side by side with those of Smith’s P.E.I. boutique hotel, The Inn at Bay Fortune. The dining experience will be memorable.
“What I love about East Coast food — and I think so many others agree — is that it’s elevated but not pretentious,” says Buwalda.
The same can be said of East Coast Eats as a culinary festival. Ingredients include a celebrity chef, a prestigious resort, and great food, sure, but the dish is pure downhome — approachable, lively and fun.
Weekend packages include the event and accommodations. Locals may wish to take advantage of weekend event or the Saturday tickets.
Whichever way you choose to participate, East Coast Eats promises a weekend of fun and indulgent cuisine you won’t want to miss.
“East Coast Eats,” says Buwalda, “is one of the most exciting events we’ll be hosting all year.”
Just the facts
Location: Deerhurst Resort, 1235 Deerhurst Dr., Huntsville
Dates: Feb. 21 to 23
Price: Weekend package, starting at $480 per person; weekend event, $289; Saturday event, $239
For more information: East Coast Eats - Deerhurst Resort - Muskoka