Amuse is an all-inclusive tasting event with a little friendly competition thrown in. Our talented Presenters participate in the best bite, best sip and best pairing competition and vie for both People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice.
Introducing the Amuse 2026 Judges
CHEF ROGER SLEIMAN
Chef Roger Sleiman brings a wealth of experience and quiet charisma to the table, qualities earned over a career defined by intention, integrity, and an unwavering respect for place. A graduate of Vancouver Community College, where he finished top of his class, Sleiman refined his craft in notable kitchens including Ottawa’s Café Henry Burger and Whistler’s La Rua and Val d’Isère restaurants.
Since joining Quails’ Gate Winery as Winery Chef in 2006, Sleiman has shaped the culinary vision of Old Vines Restaurant with a philosophy rooted in simplicity and seasonality. Long before “farm-to-table” became shorthand, he cultivated deep relationships with local growers and producers, helping define what is now recognized as the Okanagan’s regional food movement.
In recognition of his lasting influence on British Columbia’s culinary culture, Chef Sleiman was inducted into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame. Today, he remains a trusted voice in Canadian gastronomy, one defined not by trends, but by time, place, and purpose. His presence as a judge at Amuse reflects a career spent championing excellence with humility and taste.
CHEF SCOTT JAEGER
Born and raised in Canada, Scott Jaeger began his culinary career apprenticing under Bruno Marti at La Belle Auberge in Ladner, BC, before training at the Waldorf Hotel in London and gaining formative culinary experience in France, Switzerland, and Australia.
In 1997, Scott and his wife, Stephanie, opened The Pear Tree Restaurant in Burnaby, BC. Over 23 years, it became a cornerstone of Canada’s fine dining scene, earning Best New Restaurant, multiple Best Fine Dining awards, Canada’s top Zagat rating, and recognition in Where Chefs Eat and Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants.
Scott was named Restaurateur of the Year by the BC Restaurant Association, received multiple Chef of the Year awards, and was inducted into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame. He also earned Vancouver Magazine’s Mentorship and Lifetime Achievement Awards. As President of the Chefs’ Table Society of British Columbia, he championed mentorship and industry advancement.
Internationally, Scott represented Canada at the Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, leading the team to a 7th-place finish. He earned six gold medals at the Culinary Olympics with the Canadian National Culinary Team and later served as National Team Captain.
In 2024, Scott and Stephanie began a new chapter in Grindrod, BC. At Hunter Farms, they cultivate hazelnuts, garlic, and pears, continuing their lifelong passion for food, hospitality, and community.
CHEF JEFF VAN GEEST
Executive Chef & Restaurateur
Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek
BC Restaurant Hall of Fame
Chef Jeff Van Geest is one of British Columbia’s most celebrated culinary leaders and a member of the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable producer partnerships, he has been instrumental in shaping the province’s farm-to-table movement.
As Executive Chef of Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, Jeff’s cuisine reflects a deep respect for the land and the people who cultivate it. Raised in St. Catharines in Ontario’s Niagara region, he was inspired early on by his grandparents’ farming roots — a foundation that continues to influence his ingredient-driven philosophy and the on-site garden at Miradoro.
After training at Vancouver Community College, Jeff apprenticed at Bishop’s Restaurant, one of Canada’s early pioneers of sustainable cuisine, rising to Sous Chef before opening his own acclaimed restaurant, Aurora Bistro. His field-to-table approach earned him a reputation as a chef who truly walks — and cooks — the talk.
In 2010, Jeff moved his family to the Okanagan to lead Miradoro, drawn back to agricultural roots where his cuisine continues to honour the region’s seasonal bounty.
Prior Years Judges
Past Judges
| Amuse returns Saturday, March 6th, 2027! |