Forum Dinner Series
This series of exclusive meals will take you on a journey of the senses, complete with informative speakers, incredible entertainment and an exquisite atmosphere. We've partnered with some of the nation's most celebrated chefs to present a distinctively theatrical culinary experience.
Tickets are $165 and include dinner and drink pairings.
Ticket purchases for all events in the Forum Dinner Series must be made five days prior to the scheduled event.
Tastes from Turtle Island: An Indigenous Culinary Experience
Across Turtle Island, Indigenous recipes have been passed down through generations, inspired by the land and fresh, local ingredients. Join us for a meal that will take your senses on a journey across this land through traditional cuisine and modern techniques.
About Chef Tawnya Brant
Mohawk Nation Turtle clan citizen Tawnya Brant is the Chef-Owner of Yawékon Foods, a takeout lunch counter and catering service that focuses on Haudenosaunee traditional and contemporary cuisine. Tawnya grew up in her home community of Six Nations of the Grand River, where she spent her foundational years in a kitchen filled with Indigenous harvests and wild game. She has worked in the restaurant industry for 29 years and is a Top Chef Canada Season 10 finalist! Tawnya has also been featured on The Social, Food & Drink Canada (cover June 2023), APTN In Focus, Canadian Living, Food & Drink and Chatelaine Magazine. After becoming a mother, she switched her focus to Indigenous foods and catering, founding Yawékon Foods as a focus on Haudenosaunee culinary roots. Since 2014, she has travelled across North America, sharing her cuisine and food philosophy. Two and a half years ago, Tawnya opened Yawékon by Chef Tawnya Brant in her home territory of Ohswé:ken to amplify her impact on sharing indigenous foods with both her community and internationally.
The evening is hosted by Jani Lauzon, co-playwright and director of last season’s 1939 and actor in 2021’s The Rez Sisters. Guests can enjoy a traditional grass dance by Festival company member Chris Mejaki followed by an evening of discussion led by Elder Elizabeth Stevens from Kettle and StonyPoint First Nation.
Curated by chef Matthew Sullivan with The Food Dudes.
