A Gourmet Drive: Michelin’s Collaboration with Turo in Toronto and Vancouver
Recently, a unique culinary experience emerged from the partnership of the renowned Michelin Guide, talented chefs from Toronto and Vancouver, and Turo, the innovative car-sharing company. This collaboration, aptly named “Drive to Table,” invites food lovers and thrill-seekers to intertwine fine dining with the joy of driving luxury vehicles.
The Concept of “Drive to Table”
The Michelin Guide has long celebrated the idea that extraordinary food deserves a noteworthy journey. With “Drive to Table,” guests embark on a gourmet adventure, blending exquisite dining with the thrill of driving luxury cars. For just $250, participants could secure a highly exclusive package that included not only the driving experience but also intimate culinary interactions with some of the best chefs in the business.
A Day of Luxury in Toronto
In Toronto, two Michelin-starred establishments took part in this remarkable offering. Chef Steven Molnar, renowned for his innovative Mexican cuisine at Quetzal, handpicked a striking 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL convertible for his guests. This vehicle became more than just transportation; it served as a portal to explore Toronto’s hidden gems.
As part of the experience, guests enjoyed a curated tour of the city, including a visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario. After a delightful day of exploration, they indulged in a sumptuous dinner at Quetzal, complete with a table-side conversation with Chef Molnar himself. Guests ended their evening in style at the Hazelton Hotel, Canada’s only five-star luxury boutique hotel, nestled in the vibrant Kensington Market area.
Culinary Adventures in Yorkville
In Yorkville, Chef Rob Rossi took a different yet equally luxurious approach. He selected the bold 2019 Porsche Panamera for his visitors, offering them an exhilarating driving experience throughout the city. Following their exciting tour, guests were treated to a culinary journey at Osteria Giulia, Chef Rossi’s Michelin-starred kitchen, where guests savored Northern Italian delicacies.
Just like Molnar’s guests, they found comfort and luxury at the Hazelton Hotel, ensuring that every facet of their “Drive to Table” experience reeked of opulence.
Vancouver’s Flavorful Offerings
Moving west, Vancouver hosted its own “Drive to Table” events, featuring the culinary prowess of its own Michelin-starred chefs. Chef JC Poirier opted for the sleek Audi Q4 e-tron, immersing his guests in a unique driving itinerary through Vancouver’s most scenic spots. Later that evening, they relished a carefully curated three-course meal at St. Lawrence, a stunning restaurant offering a delightful blend of classic French and Quebecois cuisines.
Exploring Chinatown with Chef Wantanabe
Chef Joël Wantanabe showcased the fusion of innovative cuisine and fine automobiles by selecting a luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class for his guests. In Chinatown, he arranged a driving itinerary that highlighted both the vibrant streets and the cultural richness of the area. After their culinary tour, guests were treated to an unforgettable meal at Kissa Tanto, which brilliantly marries Japanese and Italian flavors. As with the other culinary experiences, attendees ended their evening at the luxurious Fairmont Pacific Rim.
A New Take on Fine Dining
The “Drive to Table” series not only garnered media attention but also sparked conversations about the intersection of cuisine and automobile culture. While it might initially appear unusual for Michelin-starred chefs to team up with a car-sharing service like Turo, it reflects the Michelin Guide’s roots in promoting road travel to gourmet destinations.
This collaboration has created a fulfilling opportunity that indulges the senses—one that tantalizes taste buds while providing the exhilaration of luxury driving. As guests traverse through Toronto’s and Vancouver’s culinary landscapes, they are reminded that both incredible food and breathtaking journeys are indeed worth the detour.
For more on the intersection of cars and food culture, be sure to check out the latest episodes of Under the Influence on CBC, where stories like this one come to life through engaging storytelling.