Image number 32 of the current section of Chef at Work: A tour of Overbudget Inc., Chef Grant van Gameren’s New Toronto Office of Cosentino USA

Chef at Work: A tour of Overbudget Inc., Chef Grant van Gameren’s New Toronto Office

Grant van Gameren, one of Toronto’s leading chefs, has never settled for the status quo. When his growing business called for a new space, he demanded the end result wear many hats: Test kitchen, office, clubhouse, and event space. And, in the spirit of fusion, he envisioned a blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design influencers.

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Together with Christine Ho Ping Kong, Peter Tan, and Carlos Arce Cruz of Studio Junction Architect and Design Studio, van Gameren designed the space to be a creative platform and central hub for partners and employees under the Overbudget Inc. umbrella: One to suit weekly financial meetings, fine-tuning a dish, or testing a new cocktail concoction. The space was created to elicit discussion and, most importantly,  encourage feedback.

Functionality is equally as important as the design of the Overbudget Offices. Ultra-compact Dekton and Silestone quartz surfaces play a significant role in the design — utilized throughout as countertops, backsplashes and wall cladding. This allows Van Gameren and his team to work in a worry-free environment resistant to stains, heat and scratches. Dekton in Glacier was used for the kitchen island, bartop, the bar prep area’s countertops, and backsplash where it consistently stands up to stubborn stains. He selected Silestone in Charcoal Soapstone for the kitchen countertops and backsplash, creating a striking juxtaposition between the kitchen and the rest of the open space. Dekton in Glacier was used for the kitchen island, where it continually demonstrates extreme durability when faced with the unforgiving force of a working chef.

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Today, the self-taught chef and restauranteur owns six different restaurants and bars across Toronto. He first rose to prominence as co-owner and head chef of The Black Hoof; others on his roster include the award-winning Bar Isabel and Bar Raval,  El Rey, Tennessee Tavern, Harry’s Charbroiled and PrettyUgly. Prior to Overbudget, he opened Quetzal in early 2018, which features authentic, regional Mexican cuisine. He recently launched Victor Dries, an innovative catering service with partner Chris Brown.