2023 Restaurants Canada Emerging Leader Award of Excellence Winner: Chef Imrun Texeira

Chef Imrun Texeira, celebrated for his entrepreneurial spirit in the hospitality industry, received the 2023 Restaurants Canada Emerging Leader Award of Excellence for blazing a new, entrepreneurial path for industry talent and working to change the industry for the better.

Founder of Wanderlust Private Dining, Imrun is known for his exceptional cuisine, innovative and gracious leadership, and advocating for better working conditions for foodservice professionals, including his role as a Canadian Ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project, dedicated to combating mental health stigma in hospitality. With over 15 years of experience, including at the three Michelin starred Noma, Imrun has been recognized as a Top 30-Under-30 hospitality leader in Canada and a rising talent by The Art of Plating. His TV appearances include being a semi-finalist on Food Network’s Top Chef Canada and a finalist on Chopped Canada. He was also recognized with the Alumni of Distinction Award from Algonquin College and nominated for the 2016 Premier’s Awards as a distinguished Ontario college graduate.

While Imrun has earned more recognition than most, his humility, gratitude and focus on using his platform to elevate others has blazed a new path for future industry leaders.

MENU Magazine: How did you feel when you won your Restaurants Canada Award of Excellence?

Imrun Texeira: Winning the Restaurants Canada Award of Excellence was a deeply humbling and exhilarating experience, signifying a significant career milestone and underscoring the dedication and passion I’ve invested in my culinary pursuits. The announcement evoked a range of emotions, from joy and gratitude to a profound sense of accomplishment.

This prestigious recognition from Restaurants Canada adds a new dimension to my commitment to culinary innovation, exceptional service and memorable dining experiences. It motivates me to push boundaries, explore new culinary horizons and elevate industry standards.

I remain committed to upholding the excellence that the award represents. It is a privilege to be acknowledged by such a reputable organization, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunities and challenges ahead as I continue my journey of culinary excellence.

MM: How has your work changed or grown over the past year? Did your win play a role? If so, how?

IT: Over the past year, my work has undergone transformative changes and notable growth, influenced by the invaluable recognition received through Restaurants Canada. This prestigious win has served as a catalyst for innovation and prompted me to explore new horizons in my offerings, services and aspirations.

The acknowledgment has not only boosted my morale but has also instilled a heightened sense of responsibility to maintain and surpass the standards set by the award. The increased visibility and reputation associated with the recognition has played a pivotal role in attracting a broader audience and fostering stronger connections with the community. Overall, the award has been a driving force behind my continuous evolution, influencing positive changes in the scope, quality and impact of my work.

Over the course of the past year, the Wanderlust brand has flourished, establishing itself as the preeminent selection for discerning individuals seeking unparalleled private dining experiences in the city. Concurrently, I have had the privilege of collaborating with prominent entities in the food and lifestyle space, marking a notable chapter in my professional journey. Looking ahead, I aspire to further cultivate such collaborations, as there is an inherent fascination in seamlessly merging the realms of fine dining artistry with the foremost brands on a global scale.

MM: What can a nomination or win do for a person – professionally, personally and philosophically?

IT: A nomination or win can significantly impact an individual both professionally and personally. Professionally, it brings recognition, validation, and enhanced credibility to one’s work, opening doors to career advancement, collaborations, and increased industry visibility. The networking opportunities stemming from nominations or wins can lead to valuable connections and collaborations.

On a personal level, acknowledgment boosts confidence and self-esteem, serving as tangible validation for dedication and hard work. The satisfaction derived from recognition fuels motivation, inspiring ongoing excellence. Philosophically, the experience prompts reflection on values and principles, reinforcing a commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement. In essence, a nomination or win transcends accolades, influencing an individual’s professional trajectory, personal well-being, and guiding principles, shaping their ongoing pursuit of success and fulfillment.

MM: Why do you feel other industry professionals should take the time to nominate people in their professional or social communities?

IT: Nominating individuals in professional or social communities is a powerful way for industry professionals to contribute to the recognition and appreciation of outstanding achievements. Taking the time to nominate someone not only highlights their accomplishments but also elevates the collective standard of excellence within our community.

Recognition fosters a positive and collaborative atmosphere, inspiring individuals to strive for greater achievements and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement. Moreover, nominations provide a platform to showcase diverse talents and perspectives, contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant professional or social environment.

By participating in the nomination process, industry professionals actively contribute to building a community that values and celebrates the accomplishments of its members, fostering a sense of pride, motivation, and camaraderie.