ROOTS + WAVES

Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of this rugged region, where ancient rainforests meet the wild Pacific. Each of our stops is more than a picturesque backdrop—they are integral chapters in the story of the Pacific Rim’s gastronomic evolution.

ROOTS + WAVES is about much more than food—it’s about the people, traditions, and natural abundance that define this region. Through storytelling and behind-the-scenes access, you’ll uncover the evolution of Pacific Rim cuisine, from its roots as a fishing village to its reputation as a destination that shapes world-class chefs.

You’ll explore the deep connection between land, sea, and plate, witnessing how foraging, fishing, and farming practices are interwoven into the dishes you’ll savour. Through this journey, ROOTS + WAVES celebrates sustainability, creativity, and the unique sense of community that thrives on the Pacific coast.

Your ROOTS + WAVES adventure offers:

• 6.5 hours with your host, celebrated Chef Lisa Ahier, exploring the Pacific Rim’s culinary landscape.
• Exclusive tastings at four distinctive culinary destinations across Ucluelet and Tofino.
• A foraged flight of beverages by Tarah Buchanan, highlighting ingredients like sea asparagus and pine.
• A hands-on pizza-making experience, where you’ll learn the art of wood-fired pizza using sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
• Personal stories and insights shared by Chef Lisa Ahier.
• Direct connections with the chefs shaping the region’s food scene.
• Seasonal ingredients showcased through creative cooking techniques.
• Sommelier-selected wine pairing.
• Private transportation between all locations.
• All gratuities and taxes included.

Other than your morning coffee, you probably won’t need to plan for any other meals on this day—so come hungry!

ROOTS + WAVES brings together a lineup of culinary visionaries, each with an incredible connection to this region:

Lisa Ahier (Your Host): Chef Lisa Ahier, a celebrated culinary innovator, leads your journey. From her iconic SoBo food truck to becoming a Top Chef Canada finalist, Lisa’s “grassroots gourmet” philosophy celebrates locally sourced ingredients, sustainable practices, and heartfelt storytelling.

Chef Cory Crabbe (Abbondanza Pizzeria): A community staple since 2014, Cory combines authentic Italian pizza-making techniques with his love for local ingredients. His wood-fired creations are more than food—they’re an exercise in community, tradition, and sustainability.

Tarah Buchanan (Forager and Mixologist): In the garden at Heartwood Kitchen, Tarah blends her foraging expertise with her passion for crafting unique syrups, shrubs, and cocktails. Her flight of beverages weaves together locally foraged ingredients like sea asparagus and pine with incredible stories about the land and sea.

Chef Ian Riddick (Heartwood Kitchen Food Outfitters): Ian brings decades of experience in global and local kitchens to his innovative dishes. A master of seasonality and improvisation, Ian showcases the Pacific Rim’s bounty in creative and approachable ways.

Chef Shaun Snelling (The Great Room at Long Beach Lodge Resort): Shaun’s deep connection to the west coast is evident in every dish, which features sustainably sourced seafood, foraged ingredients, and a love for this region’s natural beauty.

Chef David Provencal (Ombre Restaurant): Blending Mediterranean techniques with Pacific Rim flavors, David’s sharing plates offer a glimpse into the future of Tofino’s food scene while honouring the legacy of SoBo, the restaurant that originally called this space home.

Together, these chefs and collaborators represent nearly 100 years of life and experience on the Pacific Rim.

Price: CA$619 per guest

Availability: Exclusively from April 22–June 10, Tuesdays only.

PLEASE NOTE: Minimum group size is six guests. If you’re booking as a solo traveller or small group, please contact us at info@chewonthistastytours.com to join an existing group.

We partner with local chefs and producers who prioritize sustainable practices to honour Vancouver Island’s delicate ecosystem. By weaving storytelling with responsible sourcing, ROOTS + WAVES fosters a lasting appreciation for environmental stewardship.

We also warmly welcome all guests and are committed to making this experience adaptable and safe for everyone. Let us know about any special culinary needs, and we’ll ensure a delightful experience tailored to you.

ROOTS + WAVES is the perfect way to explore the flavours and stories of the Pacific coast. Let us help you plan your ideal trip with insider recommendations, from accommodations to must-see activities.

Email us at info@chewonthistastytours.com to start your adventure today!

“ROOTS + WAVES isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how deeply intertwined we are with this place. It’s about honouring the fishermen, farmers, foragers, and chefs who bring these flavours to life, and celebrating sustainability, creativity, and community.