You will get hooked!
The Freshwater Story
Quality Product Sourced in Ontario
Upon returning to Kenora to become executive chef at a local restaurant, Chef Barnard had a vision for his restaurant that truly incorporated freshwater fish on the menu. Drawing on this vision he continued to develop dishes that we’re based on local freshwater fish, including Northern Pike, Whitefish, and Tullibee just to name a few.
Building the business
Using his valuable connections in the food industry, and local restaurants as testing sites, Chef Barnard developed a number of freshwater fish products and has made significant inroads in the industry.
In the Fall of 2016, a local fish plant became available on the market, and Chef Barnard and his team moved in. From there they began to develop relationships with the local First Nations fishermen, and expand overall operations. Today Freshwater Cuisine works in partnership with over 45 independent fishermen who supply them with 100% wild caught fish. Freshwater Cuisine is now the largest operating fish processing facility in Northwestern Ontario, supplying the region with freshwater fish fillets, Walleye Wings, Northern Pike Cakes and so much more.
Our Team
Meet the team that will get you hooked below! With our passion for creating unique Northern inspired food products and our partnerships with restaurants and distributors Freshwater Cuisine has enjoyed a great year. Be sure to stay tuned, as we continue to reveal more and more innovative freshwater fish products.
Meet The Chef
Jay Barnard
Chef Barnard’s expertise, business connections and experience in media relations, along with his proven ability to develop new and innovative products, has, and will continue to serve Freshwater Cuisine very well as we continue to expand.
Using his valuable connections in the food industry, and local restaurants as testing sites, Chef Barnard developed a number of freshwater fish products and has made significant inroads in the industry. He has invented and brought to market a variety of value-added freshwater fish products.
Business Manager
Torin Bergagnini
The newest addition to the Freshwater Cuisine team is heading up the growth and expansion of the business. Actively negotiating in order to make Freshwater Cuisine available from coast to coast.