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Chef Chris’ Background
Chef Chris Babcock’s passion for food began on his grandfather’s farm, where three generations worked together growing vegetables, raising animals, and preparing food straight from the land. Influenced by his grandmother’s home cooking, Chris developed a deep respect for ingredients and the effort it takes to bring good food to the table.
From his first job at age 15 to earning his Red Seal designation at 20, Chef Chris has dedicated over 50 years to the craft. His upbringing has shaped not only his cooking but his philosophy: to cook with love, treat ingredients with respect, and let local, fresh food speak for itself.
Q&A with Chef Chris
Q: What’s your role at The Scotsman Hotel?
A: I’m the head chef here at The Scotsman Hotel. I’ve been here since we opened in early 2024. I design the menus, source the ingredients, and cook everything myself. We exclusively offer breakfast, and I make sure each guest gets something memorable to start their day.
Q: What inspires your cooking?
A: I come from an agricultural background, so it’s second nature to work with fresh, local ingredients. I was raised to understand where food comes from and how animals and land contribute to what we eat. That understanding drives how I cook—everything is done with purpose.
Q: How do you source your ingredients?
A: The Niagara region is a treasure trove. I often drive out after breakfast service to visit farm gates and small producers. I try to avoid factory-raised or mass-produced foods. Instead, I bring back the freshest produce, fruits, and vegetables I can find. Our guests get to enjoy food that’s been picked fresh that day.
Q: How do you see yourself within the Niagara culinary community?
A: Niagara has some incredibly talented chefs, and the level of excellence here is unmatched. It motivates me to push myself, to stay relevant, and to always bring my best to the table.
Q: What makes breakfast at The Scotsman special?
A: Guests are going to be treated to a grand experience at The Scotsman, and breakfast is a key part of that. It’s going to be fresh, vibrant, exactly how they ordered it. It will set them up for the day, and it’s one of the ways we complete the full Scotsman experience—it’s not just the beautiful rooms or the views, it’s the whole feeling, and I’m proud to contribute to that.
The Breakfast Experience
At The Scotsman Hotel, breakfast isn’t just another meal, it’s the moment where tradition, taste, and care meet. Chef Chris’s signature Scottish breakfast features house-baked pastries, farm-fresh eggs, and pressed juices, all sourced with intention.
His cooking brings the farm-to-table philosophy to life every morning, creating a sense of place that reflects the best of Niagara. Guests leave the table energized, satisfied, and cared for.
Book your stay
Discover the joy of a breakfast made with heart, heritage, and the best ingredients Niagara has to offer.
