Michael Hunter comes by his name with earnest integrity. A consummate outdoorsman, forager, hunter, fisherman and professional chef, Michael has spent close to three decades mastering his craft in the kitchen while staying deeply connected to the natural world. Born and raised on a horse farm in southern Ontario, his upbringing instilled in him a profound respect for the land and a passion for working with its bounty. Building his resume in some of Toronto’s most highly-regarded kitchens, including Sassafraz and Scarpetta, exposed Michael to a variety of cooking styles and the world of fine dining.

However, from a young age he dreamed of creating a dining experience that fused his love of food with his reverence for wild and local ingredients. In 2015, that vision became a reality with the opening of Antler Kitchen Bar in Toronto, where Michael serves as chef and co-owner. Antler is a celebration of regional cuisine, offering contemporary dishes that showcase game meat, sustainably caught wild fish, and wild-foraged fruits and vegetables, always sourced with care and respect. The restaurant’s philosophy is rooted in seasonality, sustainability, and the authentic flavours of Canada’s diverse landscapes. This commitment to excellence has garnered Antler widespread acclaim, from editorial features in Toronto Life, enRoute Magazine, Eater, and Dine to a coveted place in the internationally renowned Michelin Guide.