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PREMIER CRU HOSPITALITY
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WINE EDUCATION – A 2026 PERSPECTIVE
Wine education is something near and dear to my heart. Having worked in the hospitality industry for many years, I soon realized the importance of pairing wine with food. This realization led me on a journey of wine discovery and education. The marriage of food and wine is a key component of the dining experience at any quality restaurant. Wine education is an area of continual growth, with consumers eager to learn more. They understand that when wine is paired well with food
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


WHAT IS CANADA’S BEST WINE VARIETAL? — 2026 INSIGHTS
The Case for Riesling — and Its New Competitors Canada’s wine industry continues to mature, with several varietals gaining international recognition. Wine production in Canada continues to grow across the provinces producing excellent wines coast to coast. 2026 Standouts Riesling (still the most consistent across regions) Traditional-method sparkling wines Gamay Noir Cabernet Franc Cool-climate Chardonnay Whilst each Canadian region favor’s climatically specific varietals Rie
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


WHERE TO STAY – HOTEL OR BED AND BREAKFAST
“It’s All About Choosing the Right Experience”. Travelers in 2026 seek authenticity, personalization, and meaningful experiences. As a past luxury B&B owner there is great opportunity and satisfaction in running a B&B for a seasoned hospitality operator that provides opportunity for a controlled work life balance. Hotels Offer · Amenities · Restaurants · Meeting spaces · Smart-room technology B&Bs Offer · Personalized service ·
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


UNDERSTANDING MOLECULAR GASTRONOMY - 2026
Where Science Meets Culinary Art Modernist cuisine continues to evolve, blending scientific techniques with traditional culinary foundations. 2026 Innovations Edible aromatics Vapor infusions Textural transformations Accessible modernist equipment Culinary science programs in Canadian colleges Molecular gastronomy is no longer a fad — it’s a respected culinary discipline. “The joy of this style of cooking is that as a Chef, it challenges your science and food knowledge”. As a
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


“HOW TO NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH A RESTAURANT WINE LIST IN 2026”
It is your Anniversary. You and your partner arrive at a fancy restaurant you have never been too before. You are warmly greeted by the hostess, who takes you to your table and shortly thereafter your server appears, impeccably dressed. They explain today’s features and pass you the wine list. You start to sweat…as you have no idea why the wine list is like a novel…where do you start? Confidence at the Table Wine lists can be intimidating, but with a few simple strategies, an
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


THE GROWING POPULARITY OF CULINARY SCHOOLS AND COOKERY CLASSES
While culinary schools remain popular in 2026, the landscape of culinary education has changed now with the introduction of online learning. In 2025, research valued the cooking class market at $220 billion USD, with projections for it to rise to $450 billion USD by 2032. Though online classes are convenient, I still prefer in-person classes because I find the interaction much more enjoyable. In-person sessions are a great activity to enjoy with friends or as a corporate team
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


THE ART OF THE PASTRY PROFESSIONAL - 2026
At the age of 13, I realized I wanted to become a chef. I was studying home economics at school, which included both baking and cooking. For my final project, I had to make "something," so I baked my first cake for my mother’s birthday. Thirty years later, unlike becoming a sommelier, I have yet to master the art of pastry. (P.S. My mother appreciated the effort! Luckily, there was a cake shop down the street!) The role of Executive Pastry Chef, a position typically found in
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20252 min read


PREDICTED HOSPITALITY / RESTAURANT TRENDS FOR 2026
As a business operator and owner, staying current with industry trends is crucial for the survival and growth of your business. From a hospitality perspective, here are some interesting trends to watch for in 2026. The first five are restaurant trends, and the second five are broader hospitality trends. Top Five Hospitality Trends for 2026 What Operators Need to Know Top Hospitality Trends AI-driven personalization Sustainable operations Wellness tourism Hybrid hospitality sp
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


The New Standard of Hospitality Excellence in 2026
Customer expectations have evolved dramatically. In 2026, exceptional service requires a blend of technology , empathy , and employee empowerment . What Defines Great Service Today Personalized guest experiences AI-assisted reservation and preference systems Strong employee culture and retention Consistency across every touchpoint Emotional connection, not just efficiency The number one reason customers don’t return? Poor staff attitude. Invest in your people — they are your
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read


BBQ – A CANADIAN INSTITUTION
Coming from the United Kingdom, I was fascinated by how popular BBQ cooking is here in Canada—something I had never experienced until I arrived. Canada's BBQ school teaches students from across the country, facilitated by BBQ champions. For more details, visit https://bbqclass.ca . Hosting a barbecue creates a fantastic social atmosphere among friends and neighbors, allowing people to interact casually for all sorts of occasions while enjoying great food and cold beer. BBQs i
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20252 min read


THE CONTINUAL GROWTH OF ORGANIC FOOD — 2026 INSIGHTS
Food statistics in Canada for 2025 show that Canadians’ desire to purchase organic produce is still going strong. Why Organic & Regenerative Agriculture Are Here to Stay Organic food demand continues to rise across Canada, but the conversation in 2026 has expanded to include regenerative agriculture , carbon-neutral farming , and traceability . Key 2026 Trends Over 70% of Canadians purchase organic or “clean label” products weekly. The global organic market is projected to s
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20252 min read


A HEALTHY START TO YOUR DAY
Modern Breakfast Trends for a 2026 Better You A healthy breakfast remains one of the most important contributors to long-term wellness. In 2026, consumers are more informed than ever about the connection between morning nutrition, cognitive performance, and energy levels. Research continues to show that a nutrient-rich breakfast supports: Improved concentration and mental clarity Better endurance and physical performance Balanced blood sugar and reduced cravings Long-term car
andy Lee
Dec 27, 20251 min read
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