Ivan Castro

Ivan Castro

Michelin-Awarded Chef

“I went vegan for the animals, but it gave me so much more—clarity, connection, and the power to create change through every meal I serve. Every dish becomes a love letter to the planet, the animals, and our future.”

Ivan has been passionate about plant-based cooking for several years. He completed the four years Chef Program at CESSA University in Mexico City. He has perfected his culinary skills while attending the highly respected Natural Gourmet Institute for diverse programs in New York City and in Plant Lab by Matthew Kenney. Ivan found his passion for cooking at an early age in his hometown of Mexico City. This is where he was inspired by his mother and grandmother, who taught him the art of homemade Mexican cooking.

Ivan strives to bring his passion for authentic Mexican flavours and international contemporary cuisine, his commitment to organic, zero-waste cooking & plant-based ingredients, and a creative new twist to his new projects.

Ivan was the head Chef of La Bartola, a plant-based restaurant that was awarded a Bib Gourmand in Toronto's Michelin Guide.