our chef

The food created at Mabel Hill is a culmination of Chef Michael Brownlee’s culinary experiences as well as his love for the farm and the fresh, quality ingredients it has to offer. During his teen years, Chef Michael worked alongside his grandparents at Rudy’s Fruit and Vegetable Farm. This instilled in him a passion for growing as well as a strong work ethic, which has served him well throughout his culinary career. 

His culinary journey began at the Culinary Arts Institute of Canada in Charlottetown, P.E.I., where he completed a 2 year culinary arts diploma followed by a 2 year Degree in Culinary Operations.  As well as equipping him with the skills and fundamentals required to run a successful food operation, the program provided him opportunity to gain invaluable practical experience. In the summer of 2012, Chef Michael was hired at the award winning Relais-Chateau property, The Inn at Bay Fortune at Bay Fortune, P.E.I.. Here, he learned how to create a seasonal, fine dining experience showcasing local food at the highest level. 

After completing his degree and having the desire to further develop his skills as a chef, Michael moved to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and began working for the Grassroots Restaurant Group. Under the guidance of Top Chef Canada season one winner Dale Mackay, Michael was able to hone his skills and further develop his passion for creating inspired upscale cuisine. After two years in Saskatoon, Michael decided it was time to come home and follow his dream of sharing his culinary talents as well as his love for the farm with his family, friends, neighbors and guests. Thus came the creation of Mabel Hill Farm Kitchen & Marketplace where Chef Michael strives to instill in his guests, a sense of his passion, creativity and vision at every visit.