From the Chef

Michael Levins

Chef Michael Levins began his career in 1986 as a line cook at Trappers Restaurant in Toronto, Ontario. He moved through various Sous chef and Chef positions in Toronto, Markham and Edmonton until becoming Executive Chef at Sweetwater Grill Milton, Ontario. Michael joined the Pepperwood restaurant group as the Executive Chef at La Costa Nuova in Burlington, Ontario, after three years with the company he accepted the Executive Chef position at their newest concept Walkers Fish Market .

Originally from Quebec, Michael started cooking as a hobby . After completing high school followed by an electronic instrumentation diploma, Michael chose to attend Sheridan College in pursuit of a Business degree. When it became clear that a business degree would likely lead to a desk job, he decided to pursue his other passion - cooking. Michael attended George Brown Community College, where he earned his Culinary management diploma with honours in 1987.

At home in his kitchen, Michael enjoys working with fish, artisan cheeses and experimenting with ethnic ingredients and methods passing along a curiosity and passion for food to his children Conner and Kelsey.

On his days off Michael spends as much time outdoors as possible either paddling his kayak or canoe, or rock climbing on the Niagara escarpment. One of Michael's personal outdoor highlights was ice climbing an icefall in Elora Ontario