If you’re a food enthusiast craving an authentic culinary adventure, Prince Edward Island (PEI)—fondly known as Canada’s Food Island—needs to be on your travel list. This charming island offers more than just breathtaking landscapes; it’s a destination where every meal is a story, and every bite connects you to a rich food heritage.

A Food Scene Like No Other

Prince Edward Island’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise is no accident. From the salty tang of world-renowned oysters and mussels to the buttery richness of lobster, the island is a haven for seafood lovers. But it doesn’t stop there. PEI is also celebrated for its tender beef, creamy dairy products, and the humble yet versatile potato.

This is where farm-to-table dining thrives, where you can trace the journey of your meal from the ocean or field to your plate. Whether it’s enjoying a classic lobster supper, sampling fresh shellfish at a local festival, or indulging in artisanal cheeses, PEI’s food scene is a sensory experience you’ll never forget.

Meet the Faces Behind the Flavor

The food culture of Prince Edward Island isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the passionate people who bring them to life. The island is home to budding food entrepreneurs who are transforming local ingredients into extraordinary products. With the support of a robust food ecosystem led by Food Island Partnership, these innovators find the resources, mentorship, and community to turn their culinary visions into reality.

For anyone dreaming of launching a food business, there’s no better place. Food Island Partnership doesn’t just believe in your vision—they show you how to achieve it.

A Memorable Evening at Ada’s Culinary Studio

Our journey began with a welcome dinner at Ada’s Culinary Studio, a warm, welcoming space where creativity meets cuisine. Guided by Chef Adam Loo and his team’s passion for local ingredients, they curated a 3-course meal featuring a shellfish course showcasing oysters, scallops, and mussels paired with tarragon and Gruyere. The Surf and Turf entrée combined tender beef, smoked lobster tail, and root vegetables, brought together with a mole crunch and charred onion hollandaise. For dessert, we enjoyed a fabulous pumpkin dessert with milk crumb, praline, and maple honeycomb.

Ada hosts pop-up dinners and events in an intimate private dining space, offering guests a front-row seat to the culinary team's artistry. The venue comfortably accommodates 32 seated guests or up to 50 for standing events. Their Grab and Go, available Monday through Friday, features freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Committed to innovation and creativity in every dish, Ada delivers a dining experience unlike any other on Prince Edward Island.

Exploring Mussel Farming with Prince Edward Aqua Farms

The next day, we set sail on a mussel boat with Prince Edward Aqua Farms, delving into the fascinating world of mussel farming. It was incredible to see first hand how these shellfish are cultivated in the island’s pristine waters, gaining an appreciation for the sustainable practices that make PEI mussels a favorite worldwide. Fun fact: PEI supplies 80% of North America's mussels.

Mastering Oyster Shucking with Raspberry Point Oysters

Later, we headed to Raspberry Point Oysters, where Devan guided us through the fascinating journey of oysters from sea to table. Our adventure began with a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of New London Bay. Along the way, we observed the storage pods, identified by colorful buoys, which ensure the oysters are kept at the ideal temperature until they’re ready for harvest.

After we learned the art of shucking oysters. With tips from Devan and many hands-on demonstrations, we tasted some of the freshest oysters imaginable, their briny flavor reflecting the island’s coastal charm. Fun fact:  30% of Canada’s oysters come from PEI and there are over 90+ PEI brands.

A Relaxed Lunch at North Shore Canteen

A midday stop at North Shore Canteen where Chef Alex and Chef Kelly offered us a fabulous family-style lunch featuring dishes like beef tartare, scallop crudo with fermented jalapenos, lobster gnocchi with caramelized fennel, and beef tenderloin with wold mushroom gravy.

There we met, forager and chef Nick Chindamo, who introduced us to the island’s wild edible treasures. From mushrooms to fruit to flowers and more! Nick shared his deep knowledge of foraging, reminding us that nature’s pantry is as diverse as it is delicious.

Tours of Potato and Beef Farms

Then we went to Smith Farms where we met, Andrew Smith, a 5th generation farmer. PEI’s potato farming heritage spans over 200 years, flourishing in the island’s distinctive environment. The nutrient-rich, iron-red soil and mild climate provide the perfect conditions for cultivating potatoes with exceptional flavor, quality, and texture. Today, PEI produces approximately 2.5 billion pounds of potatoes annually.

After we visited the Francis Farm, we had the pleasure of meeting David and Brett Francis, a father-and-son team. The Francis farm raises Angus and purebred Charolais cattle with a commitment to humane treatment and exceptional care, producing some of the most tender and flavorful beef.

Dining Perfection at Sims Corner

Dinner at Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar was a fitting way to celebrate the day. We were treated to a 3-course private dining experience, led by the remarkable Chef Brian. I choose the creamy seafood chowder followed by the Atlantic halibut featuring miso chive butter, capers, citrus, and dill. Dessert was sticky date pudding paired with Cow’s caramel ice cream and toffee sauce - such a great combination of rich and indulgent flavors. The fabulous food, the great company, and the laughter made for such a memorable dining experiences.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Culinary Institute of Canada

Our journey concluded with a tour of the Culinary Institute of Canada, where the next generation of chefs and food innovators are trained. Known for its top-tier, industry-focused training programs, the institute specializes in Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Operations, as well as Tourism, Travel, and Event Management. Students gain hands-on experience in The Dining Room and The Marché, both offering stunning views of the harbour, and also prepare meals for the Grab & Go station.

As we enjoyed our lunch, we were treated to an exciting Shucking Competition featuring the Jr. Chefs. Following the event, Chef Allan Williams gave us an exceptional tour of the institute, highlighting its butchery courses, pastry arts program, and culinary expertise. We also had the chance to watch students in action, skillfully crafting a variety of dishes for the institute’s vibrant dining room menus.

A Heartfelt Thank You

This unforgettable experience would not have been possible without the Food Island Partnership team, who graciously invited and hosted us on this incredible tour. Their passion for showcasing the best of PEI’s food culture, their dedication to sustainability, and their commitment to supporting local producers made this journey extraordinary.

Plan Your Culinary Adventure

Visiting Prince Edward Island isn’t just a trip; it’s a journey through a rich food culture that beckons you to slow down and savor every moment. Take part in culinary tours, immerse yourself in hands-on food experiences, or explore the island’s numerous farmer’s markets. Don’t forget to dive into the iconic flavors that make this island a food lover’s dream.

Your food story truly starts here. Ready to experience it for yourself? Discover more about Canada’s Food Island and start planning your unforgettable culinary adventure by visiting Canada’s Food Island.

Come for the food, stay for the memories, and leave inspired by the flavors of Prince Edward Island.

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One Comment

Elaine & James
Reply

What an incredible trip it was! We were so fortunate to be part of this unforgettable culinary adventure in PEI. From indulging in the freshest seafood to exploring the island’s rich food culture, every moment was a feast for the senses. PEI truly is a food lover’s paradise, and this article beautifully captures its magic. Thank you to everyone involved for organizing such an amazing experience! We are already planning our trip back!

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