Oakville's Hexagon Chef Mentors Rising Talent, Recalls Top GTA Restaurants

Strategic Insights -

Rafael Covarrubias, executive chef at Oakville's Hexagon, has earned numerous accolades for his contemporary cuisine. As a 2024 Michelin Guide Toronto Young Chef Award winner and a 2020 S.Pellegrino Young Chef North American semifinalist, Covarrubias has paved the way for his team members to shine. Victoria Rinsma, Hexagon's sous chef, is now representing Canada in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef world championship in Milan. Covarrubias highlights the importance of caring for his team, stating, "You need to care for the people that work with you to create good food or good environments." When not running his kitchen, Covarrubias recommends visiting top GTA restaurants, including Restaurant 20 Victoria, Tatin Bakehouse, Sakai Bar, and others.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rafael Covarrubias, executive chef at Hexagon, has won the 2024 Michelin Guide Toronto Young Chef Award and the 2020 S.Pellegrino Young Chef North American semifinal.
  • Victoria Rinsma, Hexagon's sous chef, is representing Canada in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef world championship in Milan.
  • Covarrubias emphasizes the importance of caring for his team members to create good food and environments.
  • Covarrubias recommends visiting the following GTA restaurants:

+ Restaurant 20 Victoria (best date-night spot)

+ Tatin Bakehouse (best bakery)

+ Sakai Bar (hidden gem)

+ Quetzal (repeat reservation)

+ Liliana (last best thing you ate)

+ Osteria Giulia (fancy dinner)

+ Seven Lives (comfort food)

+ Alder (best dessert)

+ Manita (best lunch spot)

+ GUS Tacos (best late-night craving spot)

+ FLOCK (best takeout)

+ Dad's Breakfast & Coffee (favourite weekend breakfast place)

+ Bar Pompette (cocktail bar)

Statistics:

  • 2024: Covarrubias wins the Michelin Guide Toronto Young Chef Award.
  • 2020: Covarrubias wins the S.Pellegrino Young Chef North American semifinal.
  • October 28-29, 2023: Victoria Rinsma competes in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef world championship in Milan.

Sources:

  • [www.thestar.com]
  • [www.thestar.com/article/18372114]
  • [www.scora.com]
  • [www.michelinGuide.ca]