As you probably already know, Tastet is interested in all things restaurant related, and we love discovering the best places to eat and drink. There’s just nothing better than toasting to good food in a beautiful setting! But the best part of our job is meeting the artisans who make the experiences possible. From restaurateurs to chefs, famous foodies and the heroes behind the scenes, we’re always thrilled to learn more about the people who help the restaurant industry thrive. Our encounters with them spark the excitement we want to share, so we’ve concocted this fun Tastet questionnaire to help you get to know some of our favourites!
Tiny but mighty, Chef Aicia Colacci has an impressive track record that includes a stint at Nora Gray and five years at the helm of Impasto and has earned her a ton of respect on Québec’s culinary scene. She’s known for her tremendous knowledge of pasta and Italian cuisine and never backs down from a challenge, including an offer to teach cooking classes online. Aicia also recently made headlines when she appeared on the ninth season of Top Chef Canada. Considering all the projects she’s got in the pipeline, she’s just getting started!
If you were a superhero, what would be your superpower?
I’m a fan of science fiction, fantasy and comic books. I loved those years when the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings movies kept coming out! If I had a superpower, it’d be something like Wonder Woman’s to help with small and bigger things.
What’s the ingredient or food you can’t live without?
Avocado because it’s so delicious! And it’s an easy way to get nutrients and good fats. In the kitchen, you can use it in almost anything. It’s just so versatile!
What are three things you learned from Top Chef Canada?
That I talk really fast (laughs). My mouth works as fast as my brain but I’ve learned to slow down. Also, to take the time to recognize that what you’re experiencing is really cool. And keeping it simple with a twist.
What’s your favourite restaurant?
I’d have to say Pumpui. Or Damas. I go there for special things I don’t cook at home. I also want to try Beba, but I live on the other side of town, so it’s far!
Who would you most like to cook for?
For Chef Fisun Ercan! She cooks with so much passion, and I respect her style and integrity.
What would you do if you weren’t a chef?
I’d be a sports nutritionist. I even have a certificate in nutrition. I like to combine nutrition and taste. It’s like everything else: balance is key. But it’s too late now. I’m a chef, and there’s no turning back!
Quick-fire questions
Fruits or vegetables? Vegetables
Sweet or salty? Salty
Bread or pasta? Both!
Beer or wine? Wine
Favourite food? I love ice cream. I don’t have any in my fridge right now because I would eat it all the time. In summer, I eat it every day!
Written by Marc-Antoine Ranger
