Chef Peter Pham’s culinary lessons began as a young boy spending time with his mother in the kitchen in Montreal, Canada. Years later, Pham honed his skills while working with a renowned chef in Hong Kong before moving back to Toronto and taking a hiatus. During the early days of the pandemic, Pham rediscovered the pleasure of cooking for himself when he had a nostalgic craving for one of his favorite after-school snacks in high school: Jamaican-style patties. As word spread and cravings grew, Phamilyeats was born.
What inspired you to get into foodservice?
“My mother was my inspiration. I spent most of my childhood in the kitchen because it was the only way I could get attention. Growing up with 4 brothers and being in the middle was tough; older brothers were too old, younger brothers were too young. But, my mom appreciated me being in the kitchen, so I was often rewarded with her attention and food. Now, she’s in the kitchen with me, helping me with my business.”
What do you love about your business?
“I love cooking so much; it is such a privilege and an honor to feed other people. I love that I get to build a business and do what I love every day.”
What’s the most interesting thing to happen to your business?
“During the early years of my business where I was delivering every order from my condo, I was lucky enough to drop off patties to the one and only, Masai Ujiri. [Masai Ujiri is a former professional basketball player and president of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors.] I was expecting his wife at the door but was greeted by Masai. I was so starstruck and couldn’t catch my tongue. I said, ‘Hi! Thank you!’ as quickly as possible and ran away like a scared little boy. I think back on that day every so often to do-over the conversation.”
Which Cambro products help make your business work?
“The Cam GoBox insulated front loading unit has been such a game changer for me. It has allowed me to bring my piping hot pot pies to events and popups without having to spend thousands on an electric solution. They keep my pies hot after 6+ hours. It’s super lightweight, affordable and so easy to load in, load out and clean!”
About Phamilyeats
Location: East York, Toronto, ON
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