Stewart was a devoted and inventive fan of Canadian farmers and chefs, a frequent guest on CBC, author of cook books and one of the founders of Canada Food Day.
The chefs will be featuring some of her favourite local, award-winning recipes.
Denis Fontana said “I am very proud of the incredible event we have put together to celebrate Anita's philosophy to care about what is around you!
“When I think of Anita Stewart, I think of what the hospitality and culinary world should represent: passionate individuals who care about food, more than just for nourishment.
“Anita directed us to become a center of showcasing what's available in our ‘backyard’, even when featuring a foreign cuisine.”
Bangerter said “Anita Stewart was a long-time mentor, supporter, close friend and a national culinary icon in her tireless advocacy for Canada’s food industry.
“Using Canadian ingredients is at the forefront of our ethos at Langdon Hall, and Food Day Canada provides an important opportunity to educate and celebrate our local foods, farmers, fishers, home cooks, chefs, bakers, brewers, wine makers and so much more.
“I’m so happy we can honour our nation’s cuisines and the legacy Anita has left us. I miss her dearly and I am so proud to be able to continue her work and cook Canadian with Canadians on Food Day Canada on July 31st.”
The dinner and Food Day Canada kickoff will be hosted on July 29, 2021 at LaFONTANA restaurant in Anita Stewart’s hometown of Elora.
Proceeds will be directed to the Anita Stewart Tribute Fund at the University of Guelph.
Among the many contributions Stewart made to farmers was support for beef farmers when Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (mad cow’s disease) banned exports and sent prices diving.
She was also a strong supporter of the Elmira Produce Auction which provides a market for farmers growing produce on their farms, many of them Mennonite families.
