A screen capture of the first episode of the "WhatsCooknNiagara?" video series. Click on the image to watch the video on Destination Niagara Falls' Facebook page.
Video: Destination Niagara Falls
Ever wondered who the chef is behind your favourite dish at that amazing restaurant - the one you just have to visit every time you come to Niagara?
Now, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the talented chefs that create some of the most delectable menus across the region - at least on video. Destination Niagara Falls is launching a new video series titled “WhatsCooknNiagara?”, which will feature bite-sized behind-the-scenes looks at what’s on the stoves of Niagara’s most popular chefs.
The first installment - a 34-second episode - features celebrity chef and restaurant consultant Massimo Capra’s famously delicious risotto with sauces and zucchini. Also in the video are Destination Niagara Falls president Joyce Morocco and Nalina Williams, managing director of Platinum Hospitality Group Incorporated.
There’s much to explore when it comes to discovering what Niagara has to offer, and food and video make a natural pair, said Morocco.
“People love food, so why not create short video clips of some of the fabulous chefs’ creations and food experiences in the Niagara Region, and share them on Instagram or other social media outlets?
“It’s all about having fun and sharing the places I discover within the Niagara Region!”
Capra owns Massimo’s Italian, located in Sheraton on the Falls Hotel in Niagara Falls, as well as three more restaurants in the Greater Toronto Area.
The risotto is a favourite menu item for many, he said, adding “We did very well. I’m very happy with (the video).”
For Capra’s restaurants and others, the competition is fierce and the pressure is always on to be top of mind for foodies and average diners alike. Video is a pillar of any effective marketing strategy in 2018, and is only getting more popular, with a predicted 80% of all consumer internet traffic consisting of video by 2021, according to data from Cisco.
It’s an especially hot medium for restaurant owners looking to connect with hungry customers and attract them to their places with the promise of delicious dishes, a warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly faces.
Customers need to feel a connection not only to the restaurant but to the people who craft the menu and serve the food.
“You really have to see yourself not just buying the food and coming to eat, but also buying the whole philosophy (of the business),” said Capra.
His goal is to leave a lasting impression on the taste buds of each guest who walks through the doors of Massimo’s. He and his staff attempt to create as comfortable an atmosphere as possible for their customers.
“The staff in the kitchen and dining room are so accommodating and wonderful, so friendly and knowledgeable. It’s just beautiful to see and wonderful to be working with these people because they really put their heart and soul into it.”
Massimo’s relocated to the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel in February 2018 and is celebrating its 10th year in business. He relishes the dedicated kitchen and staff at his new digs, as it means the quality of the authentic Italian fare they serve has improved even more.
The new atmosphere is “younger, fresher and more modern. That’s my Italy - nice, clean and sleek.”
He invites everyone to Niagara to experience all there is to explore in the region, in addition to his restaurant. “We take (the area) for granted because we’re always around, but there’s so much to be experienced...to have something so close that can take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city is great,” he said, adding one of his favourite things to do is to take the picturesque drive into Niagara Falls from Fort Erie.
Follow the hashtag #WhatscooknNiagara on Instagram and like the Destination Niagara Falls Facebook page to see each new episode and find out about other activities happening in the Niagara Region.
September 7 to 9
FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre
September 14 and 15
13th Street Winery, St. Catharines
Photo: HandMade Market
In its 67th year, the two-week Niagara Grape & Wine Festival offers more than 100 events for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Montebello Park is the hub for the festival and will be full of those imbibing over three weekends in September. This year, the festival showcases 23 award-winning wineries. There’s also the Meridian Grand Parade to enjoy on September 29 in downtown St. Catharines, and the Discovery Pass to enjoy.
Photo: Allison Smith
See these and more photos of this month's events on our Facebook page, and be sure to 'Like' us! Get out and enjoy all Niagara has to offer!
Milling Day at Morningstar Mill - St Catharines
Photos: Allison Smith
Photos from our Media Partner
Enter our Monthly Draw to win a $50 gift card to Massimo's Italian!
You could be the lucky winner...enter today!
Visit our Monthly Draw page to enter the contest. You will receive our monthly e-newsletter, Destination Niagara Falls News, and your name could be drawn as our next winner.
Check out our blog, Destination Niagara's Hot Spot, for upcoming events, news and activities.
Check our Best Deals often for exciting special deals offered exclusively through Destination Niagara Falls.
Our valued partners offer Niagara's best first-class accommodations, premiere attractions, decadent culinary experiences, unique shops and much more. Visit Niagara Helicopters, Vintage Hotels and Embassy Suites for their latest promotions.
For our past newsletters, click here