Renée Lavallée

Chef Renée Lavallée was born and raised in Shawville, QC. She left home at an early age to attend George Brown College in Toronto. After more than 20 crazy years in the business, including many stints in restaurants around the world, Renée has now called Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, home for 15 years.

After a brief hiatus to raise her family, Renée jumped back into the ring to open The Canteen. After fewer than three busy years, The Canteen opened up a brand new full-service restaurant and takeout shop called Little C only two blocks from its original location.

Renée has a long list of professional accolades, which include a first place in The Gold Medal Plates in 2014, and has been the spokesperson for a number of culinary brands and organizations, including Taste of Nova Scotia, Select Nova Scotia, Community Food Centres Canada and Dairy Farmers of Canada. Some may also recognize her from her appearance on Top Chef Canada in 2019.

Renée is an ardent supporter of local farmers, fishers and various other types of food producers. She can often be spotted at any number of local farmers’ markets with Doug, daughter Zoe and son Philippe in tow. We’re very excited she’s returned to share her award-winning vision of East Coast cuisine!