How I Got My Job As Host Of Top Chef Canada & Restaurateur

How I Got My Job As Host Of Top Chef Canada & Restaurateur
Instagram/@edeneats

Ever wondered what it takes to get into the restaurant biz and be a TV host? Well, you’re in luck because we caught up with superwoman Eden Grinshpan and found out how she got her job as not only a restauranteur in NYC, but also as the host of Top Chef Canada.

Keep reading to get to know Eden and see how she got to where she is today!

Full name: Eden Grinshpan

Current job title: Executive Chef and Co-founder of DEZ, Top Chef Canada host

First thing’s first, what was the first job you ever had? The job after that? And how did it lead you to where you are today? 

The first job I ever had was working at the front desk at a gym. I then got a job spinning crepes at a creperie in Toronto. After that I got my fist job in a kitchen in London, England working at the Providore in the pastry department. An Italian restaurant after that…I forget the name. Oy

Then I back packed all over India and Israel. Worked in a kitchen named Nana and then moved to NYC and worked FOH at Babycakes. After that I sold my first show called Eden Eats to the Cooking Channel, then Log on and Eat with Eden Grinshpan. I judged shows like doughnut showdown and sugar showdown and landed a judging job on Chopped Canada. I am now the Host of Top Chef Canada and year ago I co-founded DEZ in Nolita, NYC with Samantha Wasser. I am currently working on my first cookbook coming out fall 20/20. I can’t believe it! So excited 

Just by looking at your IG, you clearly have a love for food! How did you get into food?

I fell in love with food and food television in high school and have been pursuing a career in the industry ever since. I love food, trying new food, and experiencing new foods.

What’s your culinary style? 

eden grinshpan how i got my job
Instagram/@edeneats

Easy Middle- Eastern/Mediterranean inspired food. I am not a precious cook. Love that home cooked feeling but always leaning towards the lighter healthier side without trying too hard. Middle-eastern and Mediterranean food just so happens to be very fresh and light.

What’s it like coming home to Toronto to work on Top Chef Canada?

The best! Ido, Ayv and I move in with my parents and have the best time. Shooting Top Chef Canada is a dream come true job. I always pinch myself.

What’s a typical day like on set of Top Chef Canada?

It really depends. It could be a quick fire challenge where we are typically in studio or we are at a fun Toronto location. Call time is very early for the ladies, since we are full glam but we have such a fun time during it. Always listening to music and teasing each other.The rest of the time we are on set either eating/or judging.

What’s been your favourite challenge so far on Top Chef Canada?

The Middle Eastern challenge last season.

What’s the most memorable dish you’ve eaten on Top Chef Canada?

I would say every finale meal…they are next level

eden grinshpan how i got my job
Instagram/@edeneats

Where’s one of your fave places to eat in Toronto?

Joso’s is my absolute fave.

What’s one of the craziest things you’ve ever eaten?

Balut- fertilized duck embryo 

What’s a surprising fact about yourself?

I’m afraid of open water and swimming in large open water…so scary. Whats underneath me!!!

eden-grinshpan-interview
Instagram/@thedailyplate

You recently opened DEZ in NYC, what advice would you offer to someone looking to open their own restaurant?

Find partners that you love working with and that compliment your skill set.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt while opening a restaurant?

Learning how to go with the flow and be fluid with menu items and ideas. You can start with a very clear vision and it’s so important to have that but once you open things might change depending on what your customer wants and you want that customer to be happy, so work with that

Who are your role models/inspirations?

Role models- My parents

Inspirations- Janet Zuccarini, Misi Robbins, Alison Roman