Toronto’s Michelin Chefs Reveal Their Pre-Service Playlists—Silence is Golden for Some

As Toronto's Michelin chefs prepare for their star-studded dining nights, they're sharing the music that gets their kitchens going. From high-energy electronic dance music (EDM) to the blissful silence of focused minds, each chef has a unique pre-service soundtrack that sets the tone for their culinary adventures.

Eric Chong, aKin: At aKin, the kitchen revs up to the sounds of Tomorrowland DJ sets, FISHER, Dom Dolla, John Summit, and ARTBAT. Chef-owner Eric Chong explains, 'The kitchen plays a lot of these artists to get everyone energized and keep the mood light before we switch gears and get serious for service.' Sometimes, the music even changes with the theme of the week, where the team might match the prep music to the theme, like playing German music during a German-themed week.

Zachary Barnes, Enigma Yorkville: In contrast, Enigma Yorkville's executive chef, Zachary Barnes, prefers silence. He says, 'The focus and clarity that silence brings are invaluable in the kitchen. The quiet allows the team to concentrate on their tasks without distractions.' Occasionally, music is introduced, but only to break the silence and add a different kind of focus.