Chef Jason Bangerter Talks Romance & the Art of Food for Valentine's Day

Milton resident, Jason Bangerter, is the executive chef of O&B Canteen and LUMA at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto. Not only a renowned and well-travelled chef, Jason Bangerter is passionate about family and living life to the fullest, which includes taking pleasure from food by embarking on culinary adventures as part of your special occasion celebrations.

How should you choose ingredients or restaurants for your Valentine's Day celebration? Chef Bangerter says that it all depends on what your idea of romance is and how you wish to celebrate. What is his idea of romance? A log cabin, fireplace, low lights, comfortable chairs and fairytale ambience. The most romantic restaurant in the Toronto area in his opinion is the Auberge du Pommier, stating that there is nothing like it that better fits his idea of romance. However, he is quick to point out that there are many ways to decide on the ideal setting for your romantic dinner.

Use the internet: These days, reviews and user experiences are well-documented online. Googling restaurants by region, type of cuisine or price point allows you to explore establishments from the comfort of your own home. You might also visit one of the many restaurant review sites such as urbanspoon.com, or zagat.com, where you will find diner reviews, ratings, and photos of menu items. Use their search directories to find your new favourite restaurant. Whether searching restaurants located in Milton or downtown Toronto, you're guaranteed to find plenty of diner comments using the internet.

Visit the restaurant for a drink or a snack: Before committing your special occasion dinner to an untried eatery, Chef Bangerter suggests a preliminary visit for a quick drink or a snack. Evaluate the service, the ambience, and of course the food! Give it a test run before the big night. "Experiment," says Jason, "get out there and try new places."

Don't be afraid to create your own gourmet Valentine's dinner: A romantic gourmet celebration doesn't have to take place in a luxurious establishment. Be brave. Create your own Valentine's menu. Do a little ingredient research online, and shop locally at grocery stores in Milton where Chef Bangerter says you can easily find fresh, exotic, and diverse ingredients. From a leisurely food voyage with the perfect fondue to aphrodisiacs such as oysters, chocolate and passion fruit, creating your very own gourmet Valentine's feast is a wonderful alternative to going out for dinner.

What are some favourite Valentine's foods? Oysters, raw, with lemon juice (no need to feel daunted, Chef Bangerter suggests visiting Youtube for video instructions on shucking and preparing raw oysters). For dessert you can't go wrong with a chocolate fondue for two served with strawberries or bananas, biscuits such as Madeleines, small pastries and marshmallows. Instead of wine, try an artisanal beer, or Fruli—a Belgian strawberry infused beer produced by the Huyghe Brewery.

If you do wish to venture out for your Valentine's dinner, try to find a hidden spot that no one knows about. Start a new Valentine's Day tradition. Chef Bangerter will be behind the stoves at LUMA this Valentine's Day. If you are heading downtown, look him up for some heartwarming creations. "Love it, live life." Simple, but powerful instructions from Chef Bangerter to take with you on your epicurean journey.