Which farmers' markets do you shop at?

Our Island Chefs Bastion square market and various farm gate markets.

What products do you like to purchase from the market?

I really like the variety available at these markets; I always try to showcase the first of the season and also try to keep up with the various berries and fruits as they reach their peak. There is so much beautiful produce available locally that sometimes it's hard to keep up... yeah... pretty great problem to have!

Why do you like to shop at the farmers market?

I enjoy meeting the various growers and producers, learning about their quality products and sharing passionate conversations about food. I always leave inspired.

What do you think about the "local food movement," from a chef's perspective?

I love it! The more we promote local foods the more people awaken to the flavours of “fresh, artisan and seasonal”. The demand is beginning to dictate the supply and our local farming communities are feeling the support. People are voting with their forks.

The relationships we have created with our growers enable us to educate our cooks and servers with weekly Farm, Winery, and Processor tours. This knowledge is then passed on to our guests and beyond. We are very fortunate to live in such a bountiful area of our country.

As a proud member of the Island Chefs Collaborative, it is our mandate to help protect our valuable farmland from development.

You can find Ken's creations at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, where he is the Executive Sous Chef. Ken is also the President of the Island Chef's Collaborative.