Michael Bonacini
Michael Bonacini is a celebrity chef and co-owner of Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants, which operates eight successful restaurants in Toronto, Oakville, Collingwood and Waterloo. Born and raised in South Wales, he trained classically under Chef Anton Mosimann at London’s Dorchester Hotel before immigrating to Canada in 1985, and joining in partnership with veteran restaurateur Peter Oliver in 1993. The company’s portfolio of restaurants ranges from upscale casual to extraordinary fine dining, and is well known for its signature mix of style, quality and service. Michael was among the first chefs to showcase regional Canadian cuisine in Canada and in 1996, he was awarded the Ontario Hostelry Institute's first ever Gold Award in recognition of his significant contribution to culinary excellence in Ontario. In 2010, Oliver & Bonacini is slated to open three new restaurants including two unique restaurants in the Bell Lightbox, future home of the Toronto International Film Festival Group.