Keynotes

Chef José Andrés

Chef. Entrepreneur. Humanitarian. Global Icon.

Monday, April 7 - 3-4pm | Speaker Stage

Presented by Restaurants Canada and High Liner Foods

As an extension of their deep commitment to the empowerment and elevation of the Canadian foodservice industry, Restaurants Canada and High Liner Foods proudly present a fireside chat with Chef José Andrés—the globally celebrated chef, humanitarian and founder of World Central Kitchen (WCK), who has transformed the way the world thinks about food and the role of hospitality.

From disaster zones to dining tables, Chef Andrés has shown how food and foodservice can be a force for good, solving some of humanity’s biggest challenges, as he recently stated upon being awarded the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom: “Chefs like me feed the few, but our destiny is to feed the many. To be an army of goodness where a plate of food becomes a plate of hope…a light in dark times. Together, we can change the world through the power of food.”

In a candid and intimate conversation with Kelly Higginson, Restaurants Canada President and CEO, Chef Andrés will highlight the vital role restaurants play in building healthy, vibrant communities, celebrate the industry’s resilience, and inspire foodservice professionals to lead with purpose and thrive in an era of rapid transformation.

Through the success of his vision and the example of his work, Chef José encourages us to embrace bold thinking, act with empathy, and channel our expertise into meaningful change.

Why You Can’t Miss This

• Big Ideas, Real Action: Learn how to leverage your business for social and environmental impact without sacrificing success.
• Insights from the Frontlines: From feeding millions in crisis zones to revolutionizing sustainability, Chef Andrés’ stories will challenge and inspire.
• Fuel for Your Passion: Walk away with bold ideas to help reimagine what’s possible for your operation, your community—and the world.

This is more than a special event—it’s an opportunity to learn from one of the most innovative and impactful leaders in food. Don’t just witness the future of the industry—help create it.