Not only is Toronto chef Ivana Raca laid back and friendly, she has succeeded in some of the toughest restaurants, making her mark in every kitchen she's worked in.
After a series of roles in McEwan's kitchens, from ONE to the McEwan Foods, she travelled to Australia's Gold Coast, where she worked under two-star Michelin chef Paul Froggatt at the Palazzo Versace.
She returned to Canada to showcase her competitive spirit on Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped Canada, and eventually opened up her first restaurant, Raca Cafe and Bar. She recently moved onto her newest venture, a partnership with Brad Smith, Resto Boemo.
Now, she's back on TV as one of the contestants on Top Chef Canada season six (which premieres on Food Network Canada on Sunday, April 8 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.), hoping to take the ultimate prize and title. Needless to say, Raca knows good food and she has some suggestions for food lovers in Toronto. Here are a few of her favourites.
Breakfast and brunch
Brunch is my favourite thing to eat. I usually go to Baro for the eggs Benny Blanco. If I'm feeling like eating something sweet, their pancakes with guava, queso, ripe plantain and birch honey are amazing!
Lunch
I like sesame shio ramen from Ramen Isshin.
Dinner
For dinner, I like to go to Chantecler. I like their tuna confit and steak tartare.
Drinks
For drinks, I like to go Chantecler as well. I like their Lady Problems cocktail. It's made from green Chartreuse, lime, cucumber and absinthe.
