Chef Chantz's Culinary Odyssey: From Crisis to Cuisine
A life well Travelled…
Who is Chef Chantz?
All good stories begin with a crisis, do they not? My culinary journey kicked off with an emergency trip to the hospital due to a lovely bout of anaphylaxis. No big deal, right? What’s wrong with a little life-threatening experience between friends?
Several tests and a few more ER trips later, I discovered I was allergic to food additives and preservatives. No problem, super easy to avoid… Not really. However, it definitely upped my cooking game.
Starting my culinary career in 1999 at Liaison College in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, I then founded Sunflower Catering in July 2002. I wanted to help others who might find it challenging to find great meals without the added pressure of hospital visits. Those are just no fun. Imagine being in the hospital because you’re allergic to food additives and then having to eat hospital food… dun dun dun…
Deciding to further enhance my skills and culinary development, I began McMaster University’s immersive five-year Culinary Apprenticeship Program in the fall of 2005. As part of this program, I completed my formal education at Humber College, graduating with honors from their Culinary Arts Program in 2007. I then continued and completed my full apprenticeship in 2010.
The biggest adventure of my life though was still to come in 2015, when I began my journey at sea. Working as a chef onboard several Celebrity Cruises ships, I learned from some of the best in the industry and traveled to over 70 countries! The best five years of my culinary life.
Today, I am back on solid ground, and while I may have outgrown my severe allergies to food (I know, shocked me too!), I still take pride in offering delicious and wholesome meals that make you feel good.
I promise to take your senses around the world on a culinary tour with each bite. Trust me when I say Adventure Awaits!
— Chantel Mackay a.k.a Chef Chantz —
Highlights:
Personal Philosophy on Food: Food is more than a requirement, it is art, passion, joy, entertainment and a way to share who we are. It feeds our bodies as well as our souls. Creating emotional spaces and memories that bind us
Professional Highlights:
Liaison College Graduation 1999
Opened Sunflower Catering 2002
Featured in Hamilton Spectator 2005 and 2006
Toronto Culinary Salon Bronze Medal 2007
Humber College Honours Graduation 2007
Apprenticeship Completion 2010
Winner Community Votes Hamilton 2021, 2022, 2023
Corporate Clients Include:
Tell Tale Heart Productions: The Curse of Oak Island Season 11
Praxes Medical Group
Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada
Gerdhardt Property Management
Novacorp Properties Ltd
Community Engagement and Services we Support:
Souls Harbour Rescue Mission NS
Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department
Member in good standing with the Bridgewater Chamber of Commerce
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do you only price per person?
Explore our flexible pricing options! We tailor our services to your event, offering per person rates, a la carte, and comprehensive full service. Let's customize a solution that perfectly fits your needs.
Do you charge automatic gratuities?
No. At Sunflower Catering, we've led the way since 2002, ensuring our team receives a fair, living wage. We believe in ethical practices over relying on tips. While we appreciate any extra thanks for exceptional service, there are no obligatory gratuities.
How far ahead should I be booking my event?
The ideal booking time varies by event type. For weddings, we suggest at least 30 days' notice to ensure perfection, but other events can often be arranged with a minimum of 2 weeks' notice. We're also here for your last-minute needs if our schedule allows.
What makes Sunflower Catering stand out?
Our global culinary expertise, spanning over 20 years, brings diverse, exquisite flavors to your table. We're known for meticulous on-site preparation, unrivaled attention to detail, and a passion that's evident in every dish we serve.
Can you cater to my allergies and dietary restrictions?
Dietary needs are our specialty. Whether it's vegan, pescatarian, keto, or specific religious dietary requirements, we are committed to delivering a safe and delightful culinary experience for everyone.