The Best of the 2013 Delicious Food Show

Very rarely do I get to attend Food Shows. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “don’t you work at food shows all the time?” Yes, that’s true, however there is something completely different about working a food show and attending a food show. So when I was presented with the opportunity to attend the Delicious Food Show yesterday afternoon I took it!

Let me tell you this is one food show not to be missed. With rows upon rows of gourmet foods, natural foods, and sweet treats galore… it’s food heaven. Add on top of that hourly appearances by celebrity chefs on The Home Depot cooking stage, and I call this a foodies day out!

Here are my Top 5 Favourites from the 2013 Delicious Food Show:

5 // Jelly Modern Doughnut’s Creme Brûlée Doughnut

Locally made and preservative free, Jelly Modern Doughnut takes their doughnuts to a whole new level. With gourmet flavours like s’more, maple bacon, and creme brûlée, it’s no wonder why they are Toronto premium doughnut catering shop! After walking by their booth several times, I finally caved and bought the creme brûlée doughtnut, and boy it did not disappoint! I also couldn’t help but marvel at their Halloween inspired doughnuts – so fun and festive!

4 // Wildly Delicious’ Stout Beer Mustard

Stout Beer + Mustard… not the first thing I think of when it comes to mustards, but definitely a combo that is now on the top of my list thanks to Wildly Delicious Fine Foods. With a freezer full of organic pig, there was nothing that could stop me from buy this.

3 // Buster’s Sea Cove Lobster Roll

I have been craving a lobster roll for a very long time. Ever since I had my first one in San Francisco, I’ve been on the lookout… and after trying Quizno’s terrible excuse for a lobster roll I decided to abstain from all things “lobster roll” until I could find the real thing! And boy and I glad I held out for this one! Made with fresh ingredients, Buster’s Sea Cove sure knows how to satisfy a craving.

2 // Be Nourished Kale Chips

I’m a big fan of Kale Chips and make them regularly at home, so when I came across Kale Kickers‘ flavoured kale chips by Be Nourished I instantly knew I would love them! The owner and creator, Julie McClure, not only took the time to tell me all about these crispy treats (they are organic, vegan, raw, and locally available), but allowed me to sample my way through all 5 flavours. Unfortunately they are not available in my neck of the woods, but if you are interested in giving them a try, they can be found at Pusateri’s, The Big Carrot, Summerhill Market, Bloor St. Market and Farm Boy. My personal favourite? Maple Curry followed by Sour Cream & Onion.

1 // Martha Stewart presented by The Home Depot

Of course the highlight of the show was seeing Martha Stewart, and hearing her talk about the release of her 82nd cookbook, Martha Stewart’s Cakes. She’s so witty, smart, and comfortable on stage. She even offered up some of her most guarded baking tips like how to prevent a cheesecake from cracking, and why it’s so important to use the best-of-the-best ingredients.

Honourable Mentions go out to Hot Bunzz for their innovative “meals in a bun,” and The Apple Crumble Company for their stunning packaging and branding.

Did you attend the Delicious Food Show? What were some of your favourites?