From restaurants, bakeries and wineries to accommodations and outdoor adventures, women play a vital role in shaping Ontario’s food, drink and recreational landscape.
Here is a small sampling of women-led businesses in Ontario.
Jen Agg, owner and chef, Grey Gardens
Bringing her bold energy to her kitchens, menus and spaces, Jen Agg offers distinct flavours, designs and vibes to Toronto’s dining scene. Visit one of her popular restaurants across the city.
Suzette Foucault, founder and chef, Manitou Bistro
As an Indigenous and French Canadian, Suzette Foucault set out to cook food that reflects her unique identity and heritage. Every recipe on Manitou Bistro’s menu is her own, learned from childhood and throughout her culinary journey.
Ambica Jain, co-owner and restaurateur, Adrak Yorkville
One of Toronto’s youngest and most dynamic women restaurateurs, Jain aims to redefine Indian fine dining by elevating the hospitality and cuisine at Adrak Yorkville to a MICHELIN-recognized experience.
Paula and Jayde Naponse, co-owners and chefs, Beandigen Cafe
Mother-daughter duo Paula Naponse and Jayde Micah-Naponse designed Beandigen Cafe to be a welcoming space for Indigenous people and for non-Indigenous people to learn and engage with their culture.
Tabitha Cranney, chef, The Wood Owl
As head chef at The Wood Owl, Tabitha Cranney leads the kitchen with a seasonal, technique-driven approach that complements a curated wine program and the cozy Danforth setting.
Stephanie Duong, co-owner and baker, Roselle Bakery
For Stephanie Duong, co-owner and baker of Roselle Bakery, opening this French-style pastry shop in Toronto’s east end was a dream years in the making. Created with partner Bruce Lee, Roselle crafts sweet treats and pastries inspired by moments of joy.
Stefi Van Wijk, director, Madawaska Kanu Centre
Spending time outdoors is a must for Stefi Van Wijk, who developed a deep connection with nature during her childhood. She seeks to share the beauty of rivers by enriching people’s relationships with whitewater canoeing and kayaking.
Jenifer, Sharon and Lana Rudski, owners and founders, Oceah Oceah
First Nation sisters run this Toronto-based stand up paddle boarding, yoga and kayak business with the goal of creating a connection and community on the water.
Erica Herbert, co-founder and co-owner, Ode Hotel
A shared family vision led to the creation of Ode Hotel, a modern, Black-owned boutique hotel in Toronto’s Little Portugal neighbourhood. Rooted in pride of place, the property features uniquely designed rooms that reflect Herbert’s commitment to community and creative expression.
April Brown and Sarah Sklash, co-owners and co-founders, The June Motel
Bonded by a shared love of travel, good wine and creative design, friends April Brown and Sarah Sklash took a leap of faith and bought a roadside motel, the first June Motel. Today, the brand has grown to three Ontario locations, thanks to Instagram-worthy interiors and stylish, experience-driven stays.
Tara and Lisa Carr, owner, Cypress Sleeper Barrels
A somatic breathwork practitioner, energy healer and nervous system educator, Tara Carr invites guests to slow down and reconnect with the natural world at Cypress Sleeper Barrels. This one-of-a-kind accommodation offers group yoga and sound-healing experiences in the tranquil natural setting of northwest Ontario.
Lydia Tomek, head winemaker, Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery
At just 23 years old, Lydia Tomek became one of the youngest winemakers in Canada. She’s demonstrated her talent and expertise at several wineries, currently delivering a sustainable and innovative approach to Ravine Winery’s red, white, Icewine and peach, apple and pear ciders collection.
Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli, co-proprietors and founders, Two Sisters Vineyards and Stone Eagle Winery
Siblings Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli run Two Sisters Vineyards, a vast estate located at the northern tip of the Niagara River featuring dining, tasting and tours. They’ve also founded Stone Eagle Winery, a luxurious destination serving ultra-premium wines and elevated food pairings.
Mackenzie Brisbois, winemaker, Trail Estate Winery
Mackenzie Brisbois has travelled and worked at wineries in Ontario, British Columbia, New Zealand and South Africa before returning to her roots in Prince Edward County. She draws on her extensive experience to produce flavourful Chardonnay, Riesling and sparkling wines perfectly suited to the local terroir.
Mallory Jones and Jessica Nettleton, co-founders and co-owners, Matron Fine Beer
A comprehensive knowledge of beer-making using local ingredients results in elegant farmhouse ales, aromatic IPAs and lower-alcohol lagers at Matron Fine Beer. Friends and co-owners, Jones and Nettleton, selected a name that reflects a strong, feminine and authentic character.