In a major achievement for the Canadian culinary scene, The Pine, located in Creemore, Ontario, and led by George Brown College (GBC) alumni Jeremy and Cassie Austin, has been awarded a prestigious Michelin star.
The Canadian restaurant received one of only four stars awarded this year by the Michelin Guide. This recognition elevates the husband-and-wife team to the ranks of the global culinary elite, marking a significant milestone in their careers and for the college's culinary programs. Known for its contemporary Chinese cuisine, The Pine features a 17-course tasting menu inspired by the couple’s extensive work and travel experiences in China.
Partners in both life and cuisine for 16 years, the Austins began their journey at GBC when Jeremy enrolled in the Culinary Arts Italian program and Cassie pursued Food and Beverage Management. Post-graduation, the couple honed their craft internationally, working in Italy, Wuxi, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. This global experience refined their techniques and expanded their culinary vision. They credit their time at George Brown as being foundational to their success.
"Attending GBC was the most important thing I've done in my life. The connections and skills I gained there introduced me to the industry," said Jeremy. “The program offers critical hands-on experience and crucial industry connections with its internationally renowned teaching roster.”
The Pine’s farm-to-table philosophy is driven by Cassie’s family farm, where the couple sources heirloom vegetables and microgreens to create a unique and seasonal dining experience.
"Jeremy and Cassie embody the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit we strive to instill in our students, and their success is an inspiration to current and future culinary and hospitality students," said Rudi Fischbacher, Dean of George Brown's Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
This Michelin star recognition highlights their dedication to culinary excellence and their innovative approach to dining.
ABOUT THE CENTRE FOR HOSPITALITY AND CULINARY ARTS AT GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE
Since its establishment in 1967, the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (CHCA) has become one of the leading culinary, hospitality and beverage schools in Canada. Graduating over 1,500 students and educating over 9,000 students every year, CHCA continues to be applicants' first choice for culinary and hospitality programs. With an impressive body of over 21,000 alumni, the CHCA is dedicated to producing passionate, service-obsessed professionals for the evolving hospitality, culinary and beverage industry.
For media inquiries: Saron Fanel, External Communications Specialist, saron.fanel@georgebrown.ca.
