Whether you were glued to your television set throughout Season 5 of The Great Canadian Baking Show or you only tuned in from time to time, it didn’t take long for fans to realize Toronto-based baker Vincent Chan was a tenacious competitor with top-tier technical prowess and a penchant for precision.
The talented graphic designer flexed his creative muscles and demonstrated a focused appreciation for fine detail and artistry in nearly every challenge. Yet despite his cunning competitive nature, Chan never failed to show compassion and camaraderie towards his fellow Canadian competitors.
Outside of baking and graphic design, Chan is an avid gardener, golfer, kayaker, and presides as president of Toronto’s first and only LGBTQ2+ badminton league. As a longtime resident of the GTA, he’s also become closely acquainted with the region’s food and beverage scene, so we decided to ask the GCBS champion to recommend a few of his favourite places to eat and drink.
Breakfast
My go to breakfast place is Sunset Grill in Oakville. They have the most incredible Crab Cake Benedict that is not on the menu. So yum!
Lunch
I have been going to Mimi Vietnamese Restaurant in the East end Chinatown for the last 20 years. The food is fresh and out of this world. The staff treat you like family and put you at ease the moment you step through the door. My go to is #98, BBQ Pork and Spring Roll on a bed of rice noodles.
Dinner
Living in The GTA provides me with so many food options for dinner. Every ethnic cuisine is represented. I can have bougie or eat street food any time. I love Richmond Station, and Café Boulud (please have the steak tartare).
Drinks
I am not a big drinker, but I do love to hang out in beautiful spaces with friends. Here are my recommendations for great bars: The Writers Room Bar (spectacular views of the city), and Maison Selby (go into the tiny speakeasy on the lower level)
