Island chef takes home national award

Island chef Irwin MacKinnontook homethe Canadian Culinary Federation's Chef of the Year award at the federation's annual conference heldin Charlottetown this week.

The conference broughtchefs from acrossCanada together to learn more about P.E.I's culinary scene.

MacKinnon was voted chef of the year by his colleagues in the industry. Hesaid receiving the award was especially meaningful because he could share it with his friends and familyon the Island.

"It's extra special because my wife was in attendance and other family as well," he said.

"It's a nice award to win knowing that you are being recognized from your peers across the country."

Another award for the trophy case

MacKinnon, who's alsothe president of the Culinary Federation of P.E.I., has worked in the restaurant industry for 35 years, starting his career as a dishwasher and then taking courses at the Culinary Institute of Canada.He said he's travelled throughout Canada and Europe over the years, learning about different cuisine.

He now worksasexecutive chef of Papa Joe's restaurant in Charlottetown.

He's also no stranger to winning awards. MacKinnon wonPrince Edward Island chef of the yearlast year, and is a two-time winner of the Best of Sea.

He attributes his success to the mentorship of local chefs like Hans Anderegg, who is also a past recipient of the award.

"In my acceptance speech, Imentioned the fact that cooking is a passion and you have to do it from the heart," MacKinnon said.

He said he likes toto cook withregionalingredients like mustard pickles or pickled beets.

"Simple, local, fresh. That's how I like to cook," he said.

His favourite thing though is watching people enjoy his meals.

"Whether it's for customersor for family and friends, it's a very enjoyable trade to have and do, and I love it a lot."

MacKinnonsaid he plans to stay in P.E.I, whilecontinuing to promote the Island's food.

"It's a great chef community here. The people that help me every dayare equally as passionate about food and equally deserving of this award," he said.

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