Gather round THE STAGE where industry leaders are not only providing a platform for meaningful engagement and thought-provoking discussions, but helping pave the way for how you can grow your reach and impact. This year's Speakers Stage will embrace the goal of reframing the insights and experiences that unite people and communities in foodservice, while simultaneously unlocking key topics that aim to elevate and celebrate our industry. We invite you to three full days of engaging and relevant content focused on how to FUEL the future of foodservice.
Presented By
AMEX
Schedule Highlights
State of the Industry
Presented by OpenTable. Chris Elliott, Chief Economist and VP of Research at Restaurants Canada, cuts through uncertainty with a data-driven look at what’s ahead for foodservice. As consumer behaviours shift, technology evolves, and politics reshape the world, change is inevitable—but so is opportunity. This essential briefing delivers the insights you need to navigate disruption, adapt…
Opening Ceremony
Presented by Restaurants Canada. Kick off RC Show 2025 by joining Restaurant Canada’s President and CEO, Kelly Higginson, to hear about all of the information-packed sessions, demos and competitions that are sure to FUEL your inspiration and business acumen over the 3 exciting days of the Show. Then, we’ll welcome Kim Wheatley, Annishinaabe Grandmother, with…
Future Proof Foodservice with Tech & Digital Leaders
Presented by Moneris. The future of foodservice technology is now. Industry leaders reveal how smart tech integration is driving efficiency, enhancing guest and staff experiences, and improving restaurant operations from the inside out. Discover cutting-edge innovations in ordering, payment processing, personalization, and cybersecurity—designed to streamline workflows, build customer trust, and keep your business and supply…
Women Transforming Hospitality Coast to Coast to Coast
Presented by Skip. Don’t miss hearing from three trailblazers that will bring unique perspectives to the table, by sharing their biggest challenges and successes, their stories of mentorship, and their strategies for creating a more equitable and inclusive future. They have navigated entrepreneurship, broken barriers in traditionally closed-off spaces, and have empowered the next generation…
RC Show 80th Anniversary Headliner: A Fireside Chat with Chef José Andrés
Presented by Restaurants Canada and High Liner Foods Join us at the Speaker Stage for a landmark fireside chat with Chef José Andrés, renowned chef, humanitarian, and founder of World Central Kitchen (WCK), as RC Show celebrates its 80th anniversary. Presented by Restaurants Canada and High Liner Foods, this transformative conversation with one of the…
The Canadian Food System: Opportunities & Challenges for Your Menu
As global supply chains and trade relationships face increasing uncertainty, the foodservice industry must adapt to shifting food systems that will impact sourcing, costs and menu planning. How can the food industry collaborate to build a more resilient, sustainable and forward-thinking food supply? Join Jillian Rodak, Restaurant’s Canada VP of Sustainability, and a panel of industry…
A Success Story: Mo Jessa and the Evolution of Earls
Presented by Canadian Food Safety Group. Mo Jessa went from prep cook to President at Earls. With over three decades of guiding the company through challenges, impressive growth, and a wide variety of changes and concepts, we thought it’s time we hear from one of the best in the business. We’ll sit down to hear…
Where Are Diners Headed in 2025?
Presented by Technomic. The dining consumer landscape is constantly shifting beneath our feet. Traditional restaurant usage is alive and well, however, significant behavioural changes among younger cohorts and emerging consumer segments are creating new opportunities to fuel success for your restaurant. Join Technomic’s Robert Byrne for a look at trends for 2025 and begin building…
Viral Fame to Restaurant Success with Chef Tuệ Nguyen aka. @TWAYDABAE
Presented by Restaurants Canada. Like many during the 2020 lockdowns, Chef Tuệ Nguyen wanted to help people feel a little less alone. She started posting how-to videos of simple Vietnamese dishes. Right away, her energy and charm instantly connected her to watchers around the world. From the balanced approach to modernizing traditional dishes to the…
Building the Future of Foodservice – Education & Career Pathways
From foundational training to advanced skills, educational institutions like George Brown provide the tools, mentorship, and hands-on experience necessary to succeed in foodservice and hospitality. This panel will explore how structured education, industry partnerships, and alternative career pathways are shaping the workforce of tomorrow. Discover how to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world…
Restaurant Canada Exhibitor Awards
It’s time to shine! Who has the Best Booth? Restaurants Canada welcomes everyone at the show to attend to both recognize and congratulate the heart and soul that goes into the creativity and determination of the operators, producers and suppliers who FUEL the hospitality industry and bring the best of their business to RC Show.
Golden Kirin Awards
Presented by Chinese Cuisine & Hospitality Association. The CCHAC is all about celebrating and sharing Asian food culture across Canada, proudly supporting a vibrant community of over 800 entrepreneurs and 1,000 restaurant brands. Enter the Golden Kirin Award — a major moment in Canada’s culinary scene! Presented by CCHAC, this award shines a spotlight on…
Trends & Innovations Shaping the Future of Full-Service Restaurants
Presented by American Express Canada. Full-service restaurants—whether neighbourhood gems or Michelin-starred icons—are pushing the limits of creativity, culture, and guest experience. This session kicks off with a 10-minute data snapshot, revealing where the industry stands and what’s next. Then, a panel of chefs and operators will share real stories of reinvention, from blending global influences…
Success Story: After Born Hungry, Sash Simpson is Ready for the Next Course
Few culinary journeys are as compelling as Chef Sash Simpson’s. From a hungry child on the streets of Chennai to leading some of Toronto’s top kitchens, his story is one of resilience, talent, and transformation. His first major return to India—captured in the powerful documentary Born Hungry—reignited his connection to the complexity and nuance of…
Closing Reflections for a Stronger Industry with Anishinaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley
Presented by BDC. As we enter the last day of RC Show 2025, we gather in reflection, gratitude, and renewal. Join Anishnaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley for a powerful closing ceremony that honours the connection between food, culture, and community. Through storytelling and traditional teachings, Grandmother Kim will share wisdom on sustainability, reciprocity, and the sacred…