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Chef Nick Benninger is a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, seamlessly blending culinary excellence with advocacy and entertainment. Nick discovered his passion for the culinary arts early, starting in the kitchen at a summer camp in Northern Ontario. After honing his skills at George Brown College, he completed his culinary apprenticeship throughout Ontario before settling in his hometown of Kitchener-Waterloo to pursue his vision of a “taste of place.” In 2008, Nick and his wife Natalie opened Nick and Nat’s Uptown 21, which marked the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey. They founded the Fat Sparrow Group, a dynamic enterprise encompassing restaurants, a bakery, a butcher shop, and catering operations based in St. Jacobs, Ontario, serving communities from Waterloo to Killbear.
Nick's culinary expertise has been showcased on the Food Network, with multiple appearances, including on "You Gotta Eat Here" featuring his restaurant Taco Farm and winning the top prize on "Donut Showdown." Additionally, he hosts Bell Fibe’s "Farm to Fork TV," highlighting the incredible farms and artisans in Waterloo Region and beyond.
Today, as the Director of Experiential Tourism at The Bruce Hotel, Nick brings his passion for food, hospitality, and community to every guest experience. He is dedicated to showcasing the best of The Bruce Hotel and the surrounding area's farms and culinary destinations. Beyond his professional achievements, Nick is a champion of local food and community-building. He has written columns like "519 Schmecks" for The Community Edition, created engaging videos such as "Nick and Taylor Make a Food Show" on YouTube, and served on various volunteer boards, including Community Support Connections, Uptown Waterloo BIA, and the St. Jacobs BIA. At The Bruce Hotel, Nick Benninger's unique skills and experience ensure that every guest experience is infused with his passion for great food and heartfelt hospitality.