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 began with an emergency trip to the hospital from a lovely little bout of Anaphylaxis. No big deal right? What’s wrong with a little life threatening near death experience between friends?
Several tests and few more ER trips later I found out I was allergic to food additives and preservatives. No problem, super easy to avoid……
Not so much, however, it definitely upped my cooking game. Starting my culinary career in 1999 at Liaison College in Hamilton Ontario Canada, then came the creation of Sunflower Catering in July of 2002. I really wanted to help others who might find it difficult finding great meals without the added pressure of hospital visits. Those are just no fun. Imagine being in the hospital because you are allergic to food additives and then having to eat hospital food…. dun dun dun….
Deciding to further enhance my skills and culinary development I enrolled in McMaster University’s immersive 5 year Culinary Apprenticeship Program in the fall of 2005. From there Graduating with Honours from Humber College in their Culinary Arts Program in 2007.
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 travelled to over 70 countries! The best 5 years of my culinary life.
Today I am back on solid ground and while I may have out grown my severe allergies to food (I know, shocked me too!) I still take pride in being able to offer 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 Achievements:
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
McMaster University Apprenticeship Completion 2008
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.