Thomas Cantley

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

Growing up in rural Nova Scotia with roots in Newfoundland, my life has always been about French fryz and protein. As a kid, I lived on fish and chips, spending time in the kitchen watching my grandmother, who passed down Scottish and Irish cooking techniques. Her authentic home-cooked meals, especially her famous fryz, shaped my culinary passion. You can’t learn better than from someone who truly mastered the art of real, homemade cooking.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My favorite dish to create is French fries. As the "French Fry Master," I’ve perfected over 103 unique recipes. French fries are incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with both sweet and savory ingredients. The key is strategy—combining flavors and textures to elevate the fry to new heights. Whether as a base or an accompaniment, there's truly nothing better than the endless possibilities that French fries offer. It’s always a joy to experiment and make them extraor

What would you do with the $25,000?

My dream has always been to open my own restaurant, and I’m proud to say I’m making it a reality this spring. Unfortunately, funding fell through, and I’m in need of an additional $25,000 to keep things moving forward. Losing my mother and grandmother recently has only strengthened my determination to succeed. I know they would’ve wanted nothing more than to see me realize this dream. This funding is crucial to help me open my restaurant and honor their legacy.