August 14 - The Chef's Table / Chef à l’affiche

World-class Chefs, innovative cuisine, a spectacular setting, reconnecting with friends, and the beauty of a summer evening by the Rideau Canal...

The Chef's Table is a farm-to-table feast with menus curated by Canadian chefs and musical entertainment. Presented by the Ontario Festival of Small Halls, this year's series will run for one weekend in June, two weekends in August and one weekend in September, in collaboration with the National Arts Centre's Resident Chefs Program.

This multi-weekend event will once again showcase world-class chefs and great live music, from the patio of the NAC's 1 Elgin Restaurant, by Ottawa’s gorgeous Rideau Canal. The 2026 Chef’s Table lineup will include some of the region's most celebrated musical acts and menus curated by Chef Kenton Leier (of the National Arts Centre), along with several of Canada's finest chefs.

Celebrate a special occasion with a three-course meal from world-class chefs - or just enjoy reconnecting with your closest friends over food, music, and the beauty of a summer night by the Rideau Canal.

Small group bookings accepted; tables of 2, 4, 6, and 8 available (must book entire table).

Featured Chefs: Ian Carswell (black tartan kitchen); Kenton Leier (NAC)

Chef Ian Carswell

Chef Ian Carswell's path to becoming Chef/Owner of black tartan kitchen started in a family diner in North Bay and took him as far as Helsinki, Finland, where he worked at the 2 Michelin Starred "Chez Dominique", ranked 21st in the World's 50 Best Restaurants in 2009.

Chef Kenton Leier

Executive chef Kenton Leier brings enthusiasm, passion, and creativity to the kitchens at Canada’s National Arts Centre. His culinary philosophy relies on the use of sustainable and locally sourced ingredients of the highest quality, and letting their inherent qualities stand out in his dishes.

Music: Kristine St-Pierre

Soulful folk with a country kick. Kristine St-Pierre sings about love, detours, and betting on yourself. The ‘chansonnière au coeur voyageur’ weaves together a rich blend of folk, roots and country music, captivating listeners in English and French. She received a Canadian Folk Music Award nomination for her album La Promesse, and she was named Francophone artist of the year by the Country Music Association of Ontario in 2025.

Please note: All sales are final, there are no refunds, exchanges or reschedules.

Set Menu. *Please indicate requests for any vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meal choices during check-out, as well as any food allergies or restrictions.