Chef of the Week: Alexandra Feswick

In celebration of the upcoming The Big Feastival, we’re running a special edition of Chef of the Week. We’ll be profiling five of our favourite chefs in anticipation of the inaugural event, which takes place at Burl’s Creek from Friday, August 18 to Sunday, August 20. Check back daily for a new profile on one of the city’s top chefs and a sneak peek at what to expect at the festival. 

First up in this week’s The Big Feastival special edition of Chef of the Week is the Chef du Cuisine at one of the most popular establishments in Toronto.

Allow us to introduce you to Alexandra Feswick. 

Chef Feswick began working with Drake Hotel Properties in 2014, and it’s a position that she worked hard to get. Prior to her impressive title as Chef du Cuisine at the Drake Hotel, she was a student at George Brown Culinary school and working as an apprentice at the Ancaster Mill under Chef Jeff Crump. Afterwards, Chef Feswick gained experience by working in kitchens at notable establishments like Wine Bar, Brockton General and Samuel J. Moore. Since then, she was recognized by competing in the invitational Gold Medal Plates in 2014, and has made huge contributions to her community by working with organizations like The Ontario Hostelry Institute, The Stop, The Daily Bread Food Bank and Willow Breast & Hereditary Cancer Support.

We had the opportunity to chat with Chef Alexandra Feswick about who she’s most excited to see at the Big Feastival, what she’ll be cooking up, and the other chefs you can’t miss.

What made you want to take part in the Big Feastival?

The Big Feastival seems like the perfect weekend to spend with my family!  There is going to be a load of really talented Chefs, so I know we’ll be eating well all weekend – it’s going to take camping to another level of fun with my family!

What are you most excited for at Ontario’s inaugural Big Feastival? 

I’m most looking forward to see Weezer!  I’ve always wanted to see them live, and The Big Feastival is the perfect opportunity!  I’m also looking forward to all of the events for the kids, and having the chance to bring little guy to a festival that’s full of fun activities for the whole family!

What’s your favourite dish that you’re serving at the Big Feastival?

I’m most excited to cook Shakshuka with Chef Ted at The Cooking School and teach everyone how easy and fun this perfect campfire dish can be!

Who are some other vendors Big Feastival attendees should check out?  

Same as Chef Ted, I’ve gotta rep the Chefs!  You can’t miss Rob Gentile, Michael Hunter, Victor Berry and so many more! It’s going to be great weekend!

A lot of families will be camping this weekend — do you have any campfire meal tips or recipes you’d like to share?

SHAKSHUKA!!!

RELATED LINK: Chef of the Week: Shawn Jackson of Bier Markt and Goose Island Brewhouse

Are there any other chefs you’d like to see profiled? Let us know in the comment section or tweet us at @ViewtheVibe.