FIESTA!
If the cloudy skies and unseasonal cool temperatures have you feeling a bit down, have no worries because Friday is Cinco de Mayo and it’s time to celebrate!
Cinco de Mayo (translation: Fifth of May) is an annual celebration to commemorate the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over France at The Battle of Puebla in 1862 during the Franco-Mexican War. And while school children in Mexico may have the day off to view military parades, Cinco de Mayo is an even bigger deal north of the border. Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in many American and Canadian cities with lively Mexican folk music, festivals, delicious food and drink, and colourful parades. It is truly a day to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage, recalling the great pride of victory in 1862.
Although it’s a bit late to arrange a parade here in Stratford, and it is, after all, a normal work day, I know where I’ll be for dinner! Chef Alondra Galvez (SCS Class of 2003) and her team at El Cactus Taco Shop have put together a wonderful Cinco de Mayo meal to enjoy either at the restaurant or as a Home Kit for takeaway. Chef Alondra was born in Mexico, has worked, travelled, and eaten her way around the world, and knows a thing or two about Mexican cuisine. I can’t wait to join Chef Alondra and her team to celebrate the day, sip a Margarita, and tuck into frijoles rancheros and seared flank steak with spicy avocado cream. It will be delicious, perhaps we’ll see you there!
Turn up the Mariachi music, it’s time to party!
New OPEN KITCHEN Classes
Our Open Kitchen Our Open Kitchen Cooking Class Calendar for June through early October is available to book – reserve your favourites online now! Classes are limited to 12 participants each and sell out quickly.
There is an Open Kitchen class for every interest. Choose from a variety of hands-on sessions that include guest favourites like Inspired by Thailand and Sourdough Bread, and new classes like Home ‘Hacks’, a Pastry Series, and more! Classes fill up quickly – book in now.
Chef Instructor: ELI SILVERTHORNE
REGISTER NOW for our 16-WEEK SUMMER PROGRAM
Two spots remain!
June 5 – September 22, 2023
* Exclusive Program
* Low Student to Teacher Ratio
* Hands-On Training
* Weekdays
“The Summer Program was the beginning of my culinary adventure and it just keeps getting more exciting.” – E. Kerr (Class of 2021)
“After learning more about Stratford Chefs School Summer Program, it felt right to choose this path to continue my educational journey.” -B. Letman (Class of 2020)
“There is no better place to kick-start a culinary career!” -S. Riekenbrauck (Class of 2021)
Contact: Elizabeth Kerr 519.271.1414 or admissions@stratfordchef.com.
“When I decided to be a chef, I made it a goal to pick the best culinary school in the country to build a solid foundation. I chose the Stratford Chefs School, mostly for its reputation for producing talent, for its intense training program, and for the intimate student – teacher ratio. I certainly wouldn’t be where I am in my career without the connections I made and the skills that I learned there.”
Carl Heinrich | Executive Chef and Co-owner, Richmond Station, Toronto | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2005 | Top Chef Canada 2012
“The Stratford Chefs School provides the training to create world-class chefs who are comfortable working in any kitchen environment. Its immersive, approachable, interactive curriculum provided me with the tools and confidence that I needed early on in my career to make the transition from the school setting to the workforce. Perhaps most important to me are the lasting friendships that were made, the ongoing support from the SCS community, and exciting collaborations with other alumni.”
Alondra Galvez | Owner/Chef, El Cactus Taco Shop | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2003
“At the Chefs School, I was given the opportunity to challenge myself, and expand the limits of my culinary skill and knowledge. SCS gave me the ability to trust in my own skill and allowed me to expand my knowledge. Now I confidently pass that skill and knowledge to my students.”
Mel Athulathmudali | Teacher, Strata Montessori | Owner, Chef Mel Catering | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2016
QUESTIONS? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page or email Admissions at: admissions@stratfordchef.com
Photography by Terry Manzo (SCS Class of 1985)