Fairmont Empress has appointed Isabel Chung as the new Executive Chef, overseeing all culinary operations at the historic Victoria hotel. With over two decades of experience, she is among the select female chefs leading Fairmont properties globally.
Chef Chung’s career began in 2001 at Delta Bow Valley in Calgary. She has since held leadership roles at Fairmont Southampton, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Fairmont Olympic Hotel, and most recently, Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii. Her cooking philosophy emphasizes sustainability and the use of Pacific Northwest ingredients to create authentic, flavour-driven dishes.
In 2019, she was invited to Accor Headquarters in Paris for a pollinator initiative, highlighting her expertise in beekeeping and eco-conscious culinary practices. She is committed to mentoring emerging chefs and plans to revive the Fairmont Empress culinary apprenticeship program. Among her signature dishes is sesame sizzled steam fish, a reflection of her cultural roots and dedication to comforting, nostalgic flavours.
The female-led food and beverage team at Fairmont Empress continues to enhance Victoria’s dining scene. Guests can experience her work at Q at the Empress and Afternoon Tea in Lobby Lounge.